CourtesyYumi Kikuchi first came to Wichita State University as part of an exchange program and decided she wanted to pursue her graduate studies at the College of Innovation and Design. Her advice to other students? “Take chances. Life is an experiment, and college is the perfect time to explore, get involved and discover what truly excites you.”
Yumi is one of more than 2,400 students eligible for spring 2025 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.
Major
Hometown
Capiatá, Paraguay
What high school did you graduate from?
Colegio Nacional España, Paraguay
I also did my bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering with concentration in mechatronics at the Universidad Nacional de Asuncion, Paraguay.
What made you choose Wichita State University?
I previously participated in an exchange program where I studied at WSU for one semester. During that time, I discovered how much the university has to offer, from academic resources to a supportive learning environment. After gaining some work experience, I decided to return to pursue my master’s degree to deepen my knowledge in innovation management, agile methodologies and design thinking.
What has been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge has been building new connections and adapting to life in the U.S. Throughout this journey, I’ve learned what brings me comfort despite the distance from home, and I’ve come to appreciate the aspects of my culture that I’m proud of and eager to share.
I overcame this challenge by finding new ways to make Wichita my home away from home. This experience has become unforgettable, thanks in large part to the support of my friends, my cohort and the fellow Paraguayans I’ve met along the way. Their encouragement, kindness and presence have made all the difference.
Did you have any applied learning experience as a student? If so, what was it?
I’ve had several applied learning experiences as a student. My favorite experience was serving as co-leader of the NASA SUITS student team, where we had the opportunity to represent Wichita State University alongside other universities from across the U.S. at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in May 2024.
Our team designed and built user interfaces using augmented reality to assist astronauts in future missions to Mars. It was an incredible hands-on experience that combined innovation, collaboration and real-world impact.
Watch the team’s exit pitchWhat are your plans after graduation? If you have a job lined up, what's the job and where will you be working? If you're going to grad school, where and what will you be studying?
After graduation, I hope to work in a role where I can help organizations incorporate innovation into their culture and develop user-centered products and services. My goal is to facilitate meaningful change by applying principles of design thinking and innovation management to real-world challenges.
In addition, I will continue to support the growth of my own organization, Kunatech, which is dedicated to empowering women in tech in Paraguay. I’m committed to helping it overcome challenges, expand its reach and strengthen its impact. Wherever I go, I aspire to build community and foster inclusive, collaborative environments.
What advice would you give other Wichita State students?
My advice is to take chances. Life is an experiment, and college is the perfect time to explore, get involved and discover what truly excites you. Don’t be afraid to try new things, step out of your comfort zone and pursue opportunities that challenge you.
Above all, aim to build a healthy balance between life, love, play and work. That balance will not only support your success but also make your journey more meaningful and fulfilling.
If you were given the opportunity to do a TED Talk, what would your topic be?
If I were to do a TED Talk, I would speak about the power of community and how it can be used to empower individuals.
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and the WSU Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech), including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student-centered and innovation-driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students. The National Science Foundation ranked WSU No. 1 in the nation for aerospace engineering R&D, No. 2 for industry-funded engineering R&D and No. 8 overall for engineering R&D.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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