How Computer Engineer Zion Mun Found a Community at Cal Poly Pomona
Even with a more than 50-mile roundtrip commute, computer engineering senior Zion Mun found a community of friends and classmates at Cal Poly Pomona.
Mun made the most of his experience and gathered valuable life skills and a community from clubs, classes, on-campus jobs and campus resources.
As an engineer, Mun joined the student club Bronco Space and participated in the Balloon Launch Assessment Directive for Everyone (BLADE) project, where he set up internal electronics to launch a cubic satellite to collect data through electronics.
“The project was nice because I gained industry experience in the club. I made three presentations in front of board members who worked in the industry; they gave me genuine critiques as to what would happen in a regular job as an engineer,” Mun said. “Working with a group was also really important; in any job or anywhere you go, being able to communicate with the group is crucial. It helped me as a student to keep a schedule, making sure that I use my time well.”
Mun’s first job on campus was at the Pony Express, where he created bonds with peers from different majors. He eventually transitioned to Kellogg West Hotel working front register, where he networked with more than just hospitality students. Currently, he works in the Advancement Services office, managing constituent data and aligning a database for events.
“Working on campus was honestly a really good experience. I enjoyed working and being surrounded by a bubble of other college students,” said Mun. “These are other students who live the same lifestyle in terms of going to class, having to manage school, and all that. It puts you in a place with people that you can relate to.”
As a first-generation college student motivated by his parents’ strong values of education, Mun always knew college was his goal. With the help of on-campus jobs, Mun was able to balance productivity while also contributing to pay his tuition expenses.
Studying and working did not stop Mun from taking up hobbies. Mun’s favorite spot on campus is the Bronco Recreation Intramural Complex (BRIC), a 165,000-square-foot student recreation space that features a rock-climbing wall, an outdoor pool and various workout equipment, including basketball courts.
“I made a lot of friends through going to the BRIC and playing sports. Walking around campus, at the Marketplace, just sitting around, I like to converse with people,” said Mun. “My favorite spot is the BRIC because I enjoy working out and lifting weights with my friends.”
With the help of on-campus resources such as the Career Center, Zion learned to network, build his resume, and attend events to pursue his passion for computer engineering. He aims to work for social platform companies such as Meta, Facebook or Google after college. As Mun reflects on his college journey and prepares for graduation, he offers valuable lessons and advice to his fellow Broncos.
“Don’t be afraid to reach out and use the school resources, especially if you’re on campus. Take advantage of the school resources because they can really help better your academic and future career. Go to events related to your major or just social clubs to have fun and meet new people. Everyone is probably a little nervous, so just try to be yourself and have fun,” Mun said.
“No matter what place you find yourself in or what grade you are in, go ahead and attend the career fairs and events that companies set up at school. It’s never too early, or it’s never too late to start going to those events and just talking to people, making a network, and talking to those companies. It will be very useful for you in your present and in your future.”