BCoE Student Hall of Fame 2025: Derek Willis

What is your name, age, classification and major?
My name is Derek Willis. I’m 43 years old and a graduate student at Mississippi State University, pursuing a master’s degree in computer science.

What year did you begin studying at MSU, and when is your expected graduation date?
I first began studying at Mississippi State University in 2001 as a chemistry major. However, I took a different path and built a career in Starkville, managing a local print shop for several years. In 2019, I returned to MSU to complete my undergraduate degree, which I finished in Fall 2021. I then began my graduate studies in computer science in 2022, and I expect to graduate with my master’s degree in Fall 2025.

Why did you choose to attend MSU, and why did you choose an engineering field of study?
I chose to attend Mississippi State University because it has always felt like home to me. Having established a life in Starkville, returning to MSU to finish my education was a natural choice. My decision to pursue an engineering field, specifically computer science, was driven by my passion for problem-solving and innovation. I’ve always been drawn to technology and how it shapes the world, and computer science allows me to combine creativity with logic to develop solutions that make a real impact.

What are your favorite campus organizations you have become a part of?
My favorite experience so far has been working on the 2024 Shackouls Honors College production of Three Dollar Day as an AI Prompt Engineer and Projection Mapping Specialist. This project allowed me to combine my expertise in technology and storytelling to create an immersive visual experience for the stage. It was incredibly rewarding to see how my work helped bring the performance to life, and I loved collaborating with such a talented and creative team.

What has been your favorite course you have taken at MSU and why?
I have two favorite courses from MSU: Game Design and Virtual and Extended Reality Development. Both classes were incredibly fun and innovative, allowing me to blend my creativity with my technical skills in new and exciting ways. They pushed me to think outside the box, experiment with immersive technologies, and develop interactive experiences that go beyond traditional software development. These courses reinforced my passion for Extended Reality and gave me hands-on opportunities to create something truly engaging.

Which course has been your most challenging at MSU and why? What was something you learned about yourself after taking that course?
The most challenging course I’ve taken at MSU was Parallel and Distributed Scientific Computing with Dr. Luke. This course pushed me to tackle complex algorithms designed for large-scale computations while working with the High-Performance Computing resources on campus. It required a deep understanding of performance evaluation, scheduling, and load balancing—concepts that were both fascinating and difficult to master. One of the biggest things I learned about myself through this course was my ability to adapt and persist in the face of highly technical challenges. It reinforced my problem-solving skills and taught me how to approach large-scale computations with efficiency and precision. While it was demanding, it also showed me just how much I enjoy working with cutting-edge computing technologies.

What is one thing you have learned related to engineering during your time at the Bagley College of Engineering?
One of the most important things I’ve learned during my time at the Bagley College of Engineering is to never give up. Engineering challenges can be complex and frustrating, but persistence is key to overcoming them. Whether debugging code, solving a difficult algorithm, or refining a research project, I’ve learned that every problem has a solution; it just takes patience, creativity, and determination to find it. This mindset extends beyond engineering into life and community as well. Whether it’s supporting those around me, advocating for meaningful change, or working toward personal and professional goals, I’ve learned that perseverance makes all the difference. Challenges will always arise, but by pushing forward and staying committed, real progress—both in technology and in life—can be achieved.

How has MSU and, specifically, the Bagley College of Engineering prepared you for professional life after college?
Mississippi State University and the Bagley College of Engineering have provided me with both the technical skills and real-world experience needed to succeed professionally after college. Through hands-on coursework, research opportunities, and collaboration with industry professionals, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of cutting-edge technology and problem-solving approaches. Working on innovative projects has prepared me to tackle complex challenges in creative and effective ways. Additionally, my experience as a Teaching Assistant and involvement in research have helped me develop strong communication and mentoring skills, which are just as critical in the professional world as technical expertise. Overall, MSU and Bagley have equipped me with the tools to thrive in an ever-evolving tech landscape while reinforcing the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and lifelong learning.

What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to pursue a Ph.D. in computer science, hopefully here at Mississippi State University. I want to continue researching and developing innovative solutions in Extended Reality and Data Science, pushing the boundaries of technology while contributing to the academic community. My goal is to advance knowledge in these fields and apply my expertise in meaningful ways that make a real impact.

What will you miss most about MSU after you graduate?
What I will miss most about Mississippi State University is the community—the friendships, mentorships, and collaborations that have shaped my journey. MSU has been more than just a place to learn; it has been a home where I’ve grown both academically and personally. I’ll miss the energy of campus, the late-night problem-solving sessions, and the excitement of working on innovative projects with talented peers and professors. No matter where my path takes me, I know MSU will always be a part of who I am.