Rahsaan Corbin II was a leader at FAMU and the joint college during his time as an engineering student, participating in many events to give back to future generations, especially through NSBE chapter events on the engineering campus. (Courtesy Corbin)
In the dynamic halls of the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Rahsaan Corbin II’s journey unfolded like a story of ambition, resilience and innovation.
Corbin, an electrical and computer engineering student at the joint college, graduated in 2024, leaving behind a legacy of accomplishments after just four years as an undergraduate.
He is the first student to complete the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) Grand Challenges Program at the college, a program that launched in 2021 with eight undergraduate participants. Kassie Ernst, an engineering faculty member who leads the college’s chapter of the nationwide initiative, recalls the moment Corbin transferred to Florida A&M University (FAMU) and began his college career.
“Rahsaan worked as a learning assistant for the First-Year Engineering Lab, attended club meetings and focused on securing cyberspace as a National Academy of Engineering Grand Challenges Scholar,” Ernst said. “Fast forward a few years, and Rahsaan has served as the FAMU-FSU COE National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) chapter president, won entrepreneurial pitch competitions, gained multiple internship experiences and is on his way to a promising career.”
Ernst’s pride is evident as she describes Corbin’s transformation from a newcomer to an influential leader and inspiration for many. “Rahsaan has been a great example of what it means to be a Rattler Engineer and a top student at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering,” Ernst continued. “Becoming a Grand Challenges Scholar is just one of many well-deserved accolades for Rah.”
Corbin’s advice to students is simple but powerful: “Never give up. Surround yourself with good people. In everything you pursue, always have a good heart and good intentions.”
“Being the first Grand Challenges Scholar is an honor, and I want to thank Dr. Ernst for giving me the space to expand my horizons,” Corbin said. “The program opened up a network of people, boosted my motivation to deepen my cybersecurity knowledge and helped me develop a vision for guiding people to navigate the internet safely.”
Reflecting on his time at FAMU, Corbin added, “Oh, FAMU, I love thee. This school gave me the platform to be a second-generation Rattler who wanted to shine, find myself and get the full HBCU experience while attending an engineering school connected to one of the top schools in the country.”
He also credited his status as a FAMU student for making him eligible for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund Apple HBCU Scholars Program, which included an invaluable internship opportunity. “I wouldn’t be here today without it,” he said.
From High School Leader to College Trailblazer
Corbin’s motivation to stay involved began long before college. “I was very active in student leadership clubs in high school, holding positions such as vice president of the Black Student Union, president of Students Organized Against Racism and a member of the Associated Student Body Government,” he explained.
After high school graduation in 2019, Corbin continued his involvement at community college, primarily with the Black Student Union. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 forced many activities to be canceled. “When I transferred to FAMU in 2021, I was determined to stay involved and gain as many skills as possible in case the world shut down again,” he said.
His involvement with organizations like NSBE and the Student Engineering Leadership Board (SELB), and his role as a Learning Assistant for the First-Year Engineering Lab, helped him build strong friendships, develop mentorship roles and share his experiences. His dedication earned him accolades such as the NSBE Region Three President of the Year Award for the 2023-2024 school year and the NSBE Region Three Entrepreneurial Award.
Looking Ahead: A Promising Future
Now that Corbin has graduated, what’s next? “I work as an IT Software Engineer at Micron Technology in Manassas, Virginia. I love my role and the area I live in,” he said. Corbin is also actively involved in the Black Employee Network, volunteering at events such as the Boys and Girls Club and Barbershop Books, where he helped participants build car sailboats.
“I’m thankful for being here and the path that led me to this point,” he said. “I want to stay involved with the NSBE community, so I joined the Washington, D.C. NSBE Professionals. I’m also starting a podcast to help students and others who want to get into leadership but feel it’s not right for them or need motivation to take the next step. I’m in a new chapter of my life, ensuring I can motivate those coming behind.”
Words of Wisdom for Future Students
Corbin’s advice to students is simple but powerful: “Never give up. Surround yourself with good people. In everything you pursue, always have a good heart and good intentions.”
He acknowledges that not every day will go as planned but believes perseverance is key. “The race is not to the strongest or the fastest; it belongs to those who can withstand tough days and keep improving by learning from their mistakes,” he said. ‘The marathon continues’ is a quote I like to live by.”
Corbin’s journey through the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is a testament to the power of determination, passion and the desire to lead. As he moves forward, his story will continue to inspire many in the future.
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