After a successful 14-year career in information technology, Dan Ciprari, 39, of Atlanta, went back to school for a master's in materials science and engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Now the CEO of a start-up drug development company, Ciprari says his degree has been an essential springboard into his new career.
Why did you decide to continue your education, and why did you choose a master's in engineering?
Once I had reached the peak of my IT career, I decided to start a new career in a new area of technology called nanotechnology. I wanted to get all the background available in it and learn everything about it, and this degree was the way to do it.
What challenges did you face not having an engineering background?
I earned a B.A. ;in economics with a minor in computer science in 1989. Since I did not have an engineering undergrad degree, I had to take nine undergrad engineering classes in the first year of the master's program. That enabled me to get up to speed quickly on the master's work.
Why did you choose Georgia Tech?
I researched the programs in the vicinity of my home (Atlanta) and found that Georgia Tech had strong professors, doing research in nanotechnology, in their MSE department. Their program is multi-disciplinary, so I was able to include multiple engineering disciplines into the process.
What are you doing now that utilizes that degree? How is it an asset to your work?
I started a new company that is focused on developing anti-cancer drugs based on nanotechnology. My degree has enabled me to evaluate technologies and opportunities, and it's given me credibility in the business community.
What advice would you give students considering a master's degree in an engineering field?
Make sure you know why you want to get one, and what you want to do with it. I suggest spending time in an industry job before going back to get a master's. It helps you think more effectively about research and what you are learning.
Paula Andruss is a Cincinnati-based freelance writer whose work has appeared in publications including Parents, WomensWallStreet.com, Marketing News, Crain's Chicago Business, and Cincinnati magazine.
