As a professional, Noble’s hard work and determination have received prestigious recognition by her peers, but much of her foundation for success was formed by her hard work and dedication in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences at Western Michigan University.
“Admittedly, as a first generation college attendee and graduate, I wasn’t very familiar with my options,” Noble said. “I was always astute in math and science, and I had a strong interest in computers as a kid. It was also my major at Cass Tech, the college prep high school that I attended.”
With the help of her parents and WMU recruiters, Noble decided to major in Electrical Engineering.
“I remember shortly after declaring my major, I would hear from naysayers telling me that it was one of the hardest engineering majors and I should consider changing to something easier,” Noble said. “I would hear that many engineers who tried it switched. I would hear that engineering is not ideal for women. These opinions made me want to pursue it more, and I’m so glad I did.”
Noble is most proud of graduating with a degree in Electrical Engineering and from the Lee Honors College at WMU.
“This was the first major goal I set for myself and I achieved all on my own,” she said. “Accomplishing this gave me the reassurance that I really can achieve challenging goals, even when they may seem unachievable initially.”
And she encourages other to stick with it, especially to the young women who may have little representation in their classes.
“Early into the engineering program, I remember being the only female and the only minority in many of my classes,” Noble said. “I often felt intimidated and sometimes isolated.”
She dealt with it by reaching out to professors during office hours, joining engineering organizations to network with others, and in the end these activities helped her build confidence, while providing the support she needed to succeed.
Noble is also very thankful to the faculty of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department not only for providing a quality education, but for allowing her to remain engaged with the Industrial Advisory Board as an alumna. Noble is also currently serving her second term as a director for the Alumni Association Board. She also enjoys inspiring others to attend WMU, including her sister who also graduated with an engineering degree.
“I spent some of the best years of my life at WMU. I made great friends. I earned my engineering degree. WMU had a huge impact on shaping me to be who I am. So, my continuous involvement with WMU and the Alumni Association Board is the least I can do,” said Noble. “I am a lifelong Bronco and envision myself remaining involved with WMU for many years to come.”