Applied Learning Stories

When Marianna Fronciani Farina arrived at Wichita State University, she chose mechanical engineering for its flexibility, unsure exactly where it would lead. Four years later, that foundation, strengthened by hands-on software testing and quality assurance work at NetApp, led her to a full-time role in test engineering, proving that real-world experience can shape both skills and direction. Fronciani was an international student from Paraguay. She decided to pursue her education at WSU because her cousin had studied at the university through the “Comité Paraguay Kansas” program, which allows Paraguayans to study at universities in Kansas with in-state tuition. When she toured WSU, the John Bardo Center blew her away, and she decided to make Wichita her home.

Not long ago, the idea of pursuing a master’s degree made Wichita State University Senior Kaydence Perdue uneasy. Now, as she nears the completion of her undergraduate degree and gains months of hands-on experience in local schools through her 400-hour social work practicum, that uncertainty has turned into confidence. For social work students at Wichita State, the practicum experience is a required, hands-on component of the Bachelor of Arts in Social Work program. It is designed to prepare students for the realities of professional practice, and places seniors directly into community agencies where they complete hundreds of supervised hours in the field. The experience grows students in commitment and adaptability and provides invaluable real-world learning beyond what they learn in a classroom.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way organizations operate, and Mohan Sai Dandu is helping lead that transformation. After earning his master’s degree in data science from Wichita State University in Spring 2024, Dandu now works as the Lead Gen AI Data Scientist at Delta Bravo AI, developing tools that turn complex data into meaningful insights and practical solutions. In his current role, Dandu has the opportunity to work on cutting-edge generative AI initiatives. He works on AI models that help organizations find and use information, turning large amounts of data into useful answers and insights. He uses AI to uncover patterns and insights that help inform business decisions across different departments.

In May 2025, Devon Robinson graduated from Wichita State with his bachelor’s degree in media arts emphasizing in animation. Robinson paired his major with a marketing minor, becoming well-rounded in media production and content promotion. He expanded his education by actively participating in student organizations, pursuing passion projects and engaging in Applied Learning Experiences. His senior year student experiences prepared him for his postgraduate journey. Robinson’s artistic ambition led him to an elaborate, collaborative multimedia project right before his final year.

For many students, time spent with doctors and physical therapists comes after an injury. For Mitchell Steele, however, it’s an opportunity that has become a part of his everyday life. Steele is majoring in biomedical engineering with an emphasis in biomechanics and mechanobiology, along with a minor in mathematics. In addition to his coursework, he serves as Lab Coordinator at WSU’s Motion Assessment Lab, where he studies human movement and injury and further develops his skills through the university’s Applied Learning initiative.

Claire Staggs , a senior psychology major graduating in May 2026, is gaining hands-on experience at  Wichita East High School , part of  Wichita Public Schools (USD 259) , where she supports students as they plan their next steps after graduation. She began the role during the fall semester and continues her work this spring.   

Jordan Devoy is a Fine Arts alumna, who majored in filmmaking and graduated in December 2025. Before earning her bachelor’s degree in media arts with a filmmaking concentration, she had on-the-job training at Shocker Studios. Devoy gained experience in solo and collaborative projects throughout the production process. As a studio videographer, she shot and edited videos for Shocker Studios and its clients.

In May 2024, Ananda Smith graduated from Wichita State University with a bachelor’s degree that included a strong emphasis on studying and practicing public policy. She is now pursuing her master’s degree in communication at the Elliott School of Communication. Throughout her academic journey, Smith has gained extensive experience in multimedia journalism and has recently added a copywriter role to her growing resume. In this position, she connects with Shockers and the greater Wichita community through her media work.