HARRISBURG, PA — At Harrisburg University of Science and Technology (HU), experiential learning is a defining part of the student experience; 100% of undergraduate students complete an internship or applied research in their field before graduation. Through this model, classroom learning is consistently applied in real-world professional settings.
One example of this approach in action can be seen through HU students and alumni working at SE&M Solutions, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned small business based in Harrisburg, PA.
At SE&M Solutions, two current HU students and one recent HU alum are applying their skills in technical, fast-paced roles while contributing to projects in IT infrastructure, programming, quantum computing systems, and research and development.
Peter Eke ’26
For Peter Eke, an Information Systems and Information Technology major graduating in 2026, his role at SE&M has provided direct exposure to enterprise-level systems.
As a Computer Server Specialist, Peter is responsible for installing, configuring, and maintaining servers, monitoring performance and security, managing backups and data storage, troubleshooting hardware and software issues, and supporting research and development (R&D) through test environments and tool deployment.
“My favorite part of being part of the SE&M team is how welcoming the environment is and the constant sharing of ideas and concepts that we can use as part of the R&D team,” Peter said.
He learned about the opportunity through a Harrisburg University career fair and a connection with a previous HU student. He credits both academic coursework and career preparation resources at HU for helping him succeed in the role.
“My time at HU prepared me with the practical labs taken during our courses that gave us a better feel for how technical skills are applied within the work environment,” he said. “Career Services and Experiential Learning also helped me get to where I am today through group management and working under stress.”
Since joining SE&M Solutions, Peter has strengthened his problem-solving, backend coding server maintenance, and time management skills. His advice to other students is simple: “Never give up and keep applying. Even if it looks bleak, there is something out there for you.”
Armani Perez-Hidalgo ’27
For Armani Perez-Hidalgo, a Computer and Information Sciences major graduating in 2027, SE&M Solutions has been an opportunity to apply academic learning to real development work. As a programmer, Armani contributes to database development, system accuracy improvements, and user interface design. He also collaborates with his team to troubleshoot issues, test functionality, and implement new system features.
“My favorite part has been applying what I’ve learned in class to real-world projects,” Armani said. “It’s been especially rewarding to see how my contributions directly impact the effectiveness of the systems we are building.”
He learned about the opportunity through a fellow HU student, and he credits HU with giving him a strong foundation in programming, data structures, and system design: skills he uses daily in his role.
“My time at HU has helped me think critically and approach problems methodically,” he said.
For students looking to follow a similar path, Armani emphasizes consistency and openness. “Take advantage of every opportunity to gain hands-on experience, even if it feels challenging at first. Staying consistent, being open to learning, and actively seeking out opportunities through the university can make a significant difference in building both skills and confidence.”
Abd’Malik Hakeem-Olowu ’25
For HU alum Abd’Malik Hakeem-Olowu, SE&M Solutions represents a continued professional journey that began during his time as a student.
He now serves as Quantum Manager and Network Technician, overseeing a wide range of responsibilities from developing software and use cases for quantum devices to managing IT architecture and mentoring interns.
His career path has been shaped by multiple hands-on experiences at HU, including his on-campus IT Helpdesk role, leadership positions as a Head Resident Assistant and club president, and his internship with SE&M Solutions. That internship eventually became a part-time role and later transitioned into full-time employment after graduation.
“My internship with SE&M Solutions was instrumental in preparing me for my career,” he said. “Those experiences taught me troubleshooting, communication, time management, and teamwork.”
For students preparing to enter the tech field, his advice is to go beyond the classroom. “Build personal projects, apply early for internships, and don’t be afraid of entry-level roles. Every experience adds to your growth.”
According to Emily Lupi, Assistant Director of Career Services and Employer Relations at Harrisburg University, experiences like these are central to student development.
“Meaningful partnerships and employer engagement through career fairs, informational interviews, classroom involvement, and internships play a critical role in student success,” she said. “Internships in particular bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, helping students build confidence, develop in-demand skills, gain clarity in their career paths, and feel supported as they grow professionally.”
To learn more about Harrisburg University’s experiential learning model, or to explore how your organization can partner with HU students through internships and career outcomes, contact the Office of Career Services and Experiential Learning at CareerServices@HarrisburgU.edu.
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ABOUT HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY
Harrisburg University of Science & Technology (HU) is an independent, nonprofit university offering degrees in advanced manufacturing, engineering, robotics, nursing, cybersecurity, and other critical fields. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, HU serves a diverse student body through bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs that link learning and research with practical applications. For information about HU’s affordable STEM degrees and professional development programs, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu. Stay in the know by following Harrisburg University on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.
MEDIA CONTACT
Do you have questions about this story? Interested in lining up an interview? Please contact Dan Wilhelm, Communications Manager for Harrisburg University of Science & Technology, at DWilhelm@HarrisburgU.edu or 717.901.5100×1724.
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