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When the QuantumUp! Challenge launched, it opened a gateway for students from diverse backgrounds to explore a groundbreaking field. For some, it was the allure of the unknown.

“The complexity of quantum concepts and the challenges within them motivated me to join,” shared Prashna Limbu ’26 M.S., a candidate in the University’s graduate program in finance and financial analytics.

Others, such as Satya Narayana Panda ’25 M.S., saw it as a natural extension of their passions. “I’m a quantum computing enthusiast, and this challenge allowed me to collaborate with top physicists and explore revolutionary technology,” reflected Panda, who is pursuing a graduate degree in business analytics.

The initiative invited participants to tackle complex challenges across four quantum-related topics. Twelve students from the University of New Haven, supported by faculty coaches, embraced the opportunity to step into the world of quantum technologies.

"The University of New Haven is pleased to have sponsored the QuantumUp! Challenge and to have fielded four teams focusing on Quantum Vision, Quantum Resources, Quantum Power, and Quantum Ethics," shared Nancy Savage, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president for academic affairs.

"The four teams were coached by Professors Meliksetian (Tagliatella College of Engineering), Shpylchyn (Pompea College of Business), and Devilliers (PCoB),” Dr. Savage continued. “It was a positive learning experience for all of the University of New Haven participants. By participating in such events, the University can highlight its reputation and raise its visibility."

The students walked away with a deeper understanding of quantum systems, honed research and teamwork skills, and developed the confidence to tackle future professional projects. As Tomiloba Shokunbi ’25 M.S., a graduate candidate in finance and financial analytics, put it, “This challenge gave us the chance to apply analytical skills and explore energy-efficient solutions in quantum computing.”

'The potential for groundbreaking innovation made this challenge irresistible’

For many participants, the challenge was as much about personal growth as it was about problem-solving. As students delved into the intricacies of qubits, entanglement, and quantum governance, they discovered how curiosity could bridge gaps in knowledge.

“Quantum computing feels like science fiction becoming reality,” Shokunbi remarked. “The potential for groundbreaking innovation made this challenge irresistible.”

Participants also appreciated the interdisciplinary nature of the experience. Nahian Ehsanul Karim ’26 M.S., a non-STEM student, found it exciting to engage with a field outside his academic focus. “It was my first time working on a project with people from such diverse academic backgrounds. Now, I feel confident discussing quantum topics or even pursuing a career in quantum technology.”

Despite the steep learning curve, the students relied on their curiosity and collaboration to move forward. Karim, who is pursuing a master’s in business analytics, highlighted the challenge of competing against peers who had years of experience in the field. “We overcame these obstacles through teamwork and discipline,” he said.

'I was able to apply knowledge from past projects’

Quantum technology’s complexity presented hurdles that required perseverance. “Maintaining effective coordination to develop a business strategy was tough,” Limbu admitted. However, her team turned to thorough research and strong collaboration to rise to the occasion.

Other students, such as Panda, brought prior experiences to the table, leveraging tools such as IBM’s Qiskit to contribute meaningfully. “I was able to apply knowledge from past projects with Intuit and IBM, giving me a competitive edge,” Panda said.

Even with limited time to prepare, participants remained focused on delivering meaningful solutions. “We only had ten days to understand, research, and put together a presentation,” Karim recalled. “But we divided tasks based on each member’s strengths and continuously worked together to grasp challenging concepts.”

The payoff was more than worth the effort. As Panda reflected, “This experience prepared me to push the boundaries of quantum computing’s potential to drive human progress.”

'...those moments of learning from each other stood out’

Beyond the technical knowledge, the QuantumUp! Challenge offered students the chance to connect with peers, faculty, and industry professionals. “Meeting future leaders from various institutions and exchanging ideas was the best part,” said Ikechukwu V. Iheanyi ’24 MBA. “Though it was a competition, those moments of learning from each other stood out.”

Limbu echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the value of networking. “The most rewarding aspect was gaining new insights while connecting with students and faculty from different universities,” she shared.

Looking ahead, participants believe their experience will have a lasting impact. “The skills I developed in critical thinking, teamwork, and presenting technical information will be invaluable,” Shokunbi noted.

Reflecting on the challenge’s significance, Iheanyi concluded, “My participation opened my mind to endless possibilities and deepened my appreciation for research and innovation.”