NDSU doctoral student, Purple Heart recipient, finds support at NDSU
NDSU’s commitment to supporting military-affiliated students and their families is consistently reflected in its recognition as a Gold Status Military Friendly Campus and in the experiences of students who balance their education with service to their country.
That unwavering support has been noticeable to Seguy Tchakounte-Wakem, a doctoral student who currently serves as a staff officer in the U.S. Army Reserve.
Tchakounte-Wakem’s path toward earning his doctorate in transportation and supply chain has included two deployments overseas and other military obligations that have sometimes required him to put his education on hold. But through it all, there’s no other place Tchakounte-Wakem would rather earn his degree.
“Being able to return to NDSU and continue working toward my degree has made a significant difference in my journey. It showed me that the university understands the unique challenges military students face and values their commitment to both service and education,” Tchakounte-Wakem said. “Knowing that I could step away when duty called and still have the opportunity to continue my education gave me peace of mind. I am grateful for the understanding and support of the faculty and the university throughout this process.”
Building a foundation of leadership and service
Tchakounte-Wakem was initially drawn to NDSU with the aspiration of furthering his career by earning a master’s degree in applied statistics, as well as achieving his goal of becoming a commissioned officer.
“NDSU offered an environment where I could grow academically and develop my leadership skills through the ROTC program,” Tchakounte-Wakem. “What I remember most about my early experience was the challenge of balancing graduate-level coursework with ROTC training and responsibilities. It was not always easy, but it taught me discipline, time management and the importance of staying committed to my goals. I also remember the support I received from faculty, fellow students and ROTC instructors, who helped me grow both personally and professionally.”
In 2018, Tchakounte-Wakem completed his master’s degree and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. That milestone remains one of Tchakounte-Wakem’s proudest moments in his life, representing the hard work and sacrifices he made while also marking the beginning of a new chapter of leadership through serving his country.
“My experience at NDSU prepared me for that responsibility by teaching me leadership, accountability, critical thinking and how to work with people from different backgrounds,” he said. “The combination of graduate education and ROTC training gave me the confidence to face challenges, make difficult decisions and understand the importance of putting others before myself.”
Turning military experience into innovative research
Tchakounte-Wakem’s military service also helped shape his academic interests and inspired him to continue his education.
During his time in the Army, he saw firsthand how the planning, coordination and efficient movement of personnel, equipment and supplies can influence the success of an operation.
When it came time to choose where he wanted to pursue his doctoral degree, Tchakounte-Wakem didn’t have to think long.
“Continuing my education at NDSU felt like a natural choice because I was already familiar with the university and the academic support it provides,” he said.
His doctoral research allows him to explore transportation challenges and emerging technologies, including electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, commonly known as eVTOLs. By examining innovations that could change how people and goods move, he hopes to help develop more efficient transportation systems and practical solutions to real-world challenges.
His goal is to bring together the knowledge gained through doctoral research and the experience he has developed in the military to make a meaningful contribution to the future of transportation and supply chain management.
Support and mentorship that have made a difference
Throughout his time at NDSU, Tchakounte-Wakem has worked alongside faculty members who understand his military responsibilities and have encouraged him to continue working toward his goals, even when military commitments have slowed his academic progress.
One of those mentors is Raj Bridgelall, an associate professor in finance, supply chain and transportation, who Tchakounte-Wakem said has been an important part of his academic journey.
“His knowledge, guidance and willingness to support a Soldier student have made a significant difference in my experience. One of the most valuable lessons I have learned is the importance of being curious, thinking critically and approaching problems from different perspectives,” Tchakounte-Wakem said. “Dr. Bridgelall has helped me better understand the research process and the importance of connecting academic research to real-world transportation challenges. What I appreciate most is the understanding and encouragement I have received, especially while balancing my doctoral studies with military responsibilities. Their support has motivated me to keep moving forward, even when progress has been slower than I originally expected.”
Bridgelall’s support has extended beyond the classroom. He regularly checks in on Tchakounte-Wakem and was among one of the first faculty members Tchakounte-Wakem told when he learned he was a Purple Heart recipient for wounds he sustained in combat.
“It has been a pleasure advising Seguy as he works toward his Ph.D. He is diligent, seeks feedback often and aims for high work quality in everything he does,” Bridgelall said.
The power of persistence
Tchakounte-Wakem expects to earn his doctoral degree next spring and is looking forward to checking off another goal from his list.
“There have been interruptions and times when progress was slower than I wanted, but I never lost sight of my goal,” he said. “Reaching this milestone will be a reminder that success is not always about how quickly you finish, but about having the determination to keep going despite the obstacles. It will also be a proud moment for my family, especially my wife, who had to care for our kids when I was gone, and everyone who has supported me along the way.”
For other military-affiliated students considering earning a degree while actively serving, Tchakounte-Wakem encourages them to pursue their education without letting the possibility of interruptions discourage them.
“It will not always be easy, and there will be times when balancing school, military service and personal responsibilities becomes challenging. However, with discipline, good time management and the right support system, it is possible,” he said. “I would also encourage military members to communicate openly with their professors and academic advisors about their obligations. One thing I have learned from my experience at NDSU is that you do not have to follow a traditional timeline to achieve your goals. Sometimes you may need to slow down or take a break, but that does not mean you have to give up. What matters most is staying committed to your goals and continuing to move forward.”
To learn more about the resources NDSU offers military-affiliated students, check out the military and veteran students Admission webpage, as well as the Veterans Educational Training webpage.
Now is your moment to see where NDSU can take you. Apply today or schedule a campus visit.
NDSU Marketing and Communications
Source: Seguy Tchakounte-Wakem
Writer: Meghan Arbegast
Photos: Seguy Tchakounte-Wakem