
Vongaishe M.
5.0
(1)
Studied at Columbia University
Works at Black Ivy
Available Monday at 1:00 PM UTC
I'm taking clients for anyone applying to Ph.D. programs or even considering Ph.D. programs!
Questions? Start chatting with this coach before you get started.
About Vongaishe
I was born in Zimbabwe and grew up in Michigan before earning my Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Notre Dame. I conducted research at both Notre Dame and Stanford University and am now pursuing my Ph.D. at Columbia University. Having navigated the U.S. application process myself—from undergrad to doctoral programs—I know what it takes to stand out. I’ve guided students through applications to top undergraduate schools, summer research programs, and Ph.D. programs, helping them craft authentic stories that highlight their strengths. I’m passionate about supporting students, especially those from underrepresented or international backgrounds, as they pursue their academic goals with confidence.
Why do I coach?
I coach to pay it forward to the mentors who helped me reach this stage in my academic journey. The guidance I received during my Ph.D. applications was invaluable, and I want to offer that same support to others. Now pursuing my Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at Columbia University, I’m passionate about helping students navigate the often-intimidating application process, break down barriers, and approach their goals with clarity and confidence.
Work Experience
ROOTS Mentor
Black Ivy
August 2025 - Present
-Supporting Black & Brown high school students throughout their application process -Currently guiding a high school student from Ghana as they apply to undergraduate schools. I meet with the student twice a week to provide advice and feedback on their applications.

Student Ambassador
University of Notre Dame
June 2020 - May 2023
Organized new international student gatherings and welcomed new students at orientation, to aid them through their acclimation process. Built relationships with people from various countries and contributed to the advancement of internationalization on campus .
Research Assistant
Stanford University
June 2022 - August 2022
Conducted research in Professor Dan Congreve’s lab on thin-film Nir-to-visible fusion upconversion (TF-UC) which can be utilized to improve the efficiency of solar cells and establish night vision. Studied thin-film TF-UC technology and engineered an improved system to overcome the many challenges of this technology to achieve real-life application
Education
Columbia University
Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Mechanical Engineering
2023 - 2028

Notre Dame University
Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
2019 - 2023
Activities and societies: National Society of Black Engineers, African Students Association, ND IrishSat, QuestBridge Finalist, Mary E. Galvin Scholar
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