Meet the new faculty in the Gregory H. Olsen College of Engineering and Science
Say “hello” to the new faculty members in the Gregory H. Olsen College of Engineering and Science!
FDU: How did a failure, or a seeming failure, lead you to future success?
Hyungjoo (Jay) Choi: Perseverance and grit. I failed the preliminary exam during my Ph.D. at Iowa State University, and this led to my second M.S. degree. Then, I transferred to Rutgers University and re-took the exam. I received my Ph.D. at Rutgers University within three years. Take a deep breath about your professional journey.
FDU: If you were stuck on a deserted island, what is the one book that you absolutely must have with you?
HC: I would bring Timoshenko Beam Theory. This is the book piqued my curiosity in structural engineering.
FDU: What brought you to FDU?
HC: I have been working in the industry the past seven years after graduating from Rutgers. FDU’s civil engineering program has great potential to grow, and the state of New Jersey needs civil and structural engineers to resolve the engineering issues that we are facing for existing bridges as well as buildings.
FDU: Who inspires you and why?
Rachana Nair: I’m deeply inspired by my parents, who shaped my values and earned our family deep respect in our hometown. My mom was a cherished presence of our hometown — kind, caring, and always ready to help anyone who came to our door. Her warmth and generosity continue to guide me every day. My dad is a respected teacher, a gifted public speaker, and a favorite among his students. As the only sister to my brothers, I was raised by a loving circle of family, my grandmother, aunt, uncles — who surrounded us with care, affection, and strong values. Growing up in a village full of innocent, loving people, I was immersed in compassion and community. Seeing both of my parents in action, I’ve always aspired to be a passionate, kind, and helpful teacher— just like them.
FDU: What would the title of your autobiography be?
RN: Threads of Kindness in a Petri Dish of Dreams
FDU: What brought you to FDU?
RN: FDU feels like more than just a workplace — it feels like home. Seeing so many students from my town walk its halls makes the connection even stronger. I began as an adjunct faculty member, and from the very first class, I felt a deep sense of purpose. Teaching isn’t just a profession for me, it’s a calling. Coming from a village where education is cherished and kindness is a way of life, I was drawn to FDU’s inclusive spirit and its commitment to nurturing both intellect and humanity. I’ve also been fortunate to work with incredibly supportive colleagues and a caring department chair, whose encouragement has helped me grow both personally and professionally. FDU has given me the space to pour my heart into teaching, uplift students, and live the values I was raised with compassion, respect, and a love for learning.