Meet Diaga Sokhna
Strength, resilience, and leadership are qualities often associated with the Senegalese name "Diaga"—and for Reynolds alum, Diaga Sokhna, those qualities have defined a remarkable educational and professional journey that began thousands of miles away.
Born and raised in Dakar, Senegal, Diaga moved to the United States with a clear goal: to build a future through education. Fluent in four languages today, English was not one of them when he arrived. In 2018, he enrolled at Reynolds Community College, starting in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program. It was the first step in a journey that would eventually lead him to a career as an Engineering consultant.
Discovering a Passion for Engineering
Diaga’s interest in engineering began long before he arrived in the U.S. Growing up he was fascinated by how things worked and often repaired broken electronics and mechanical devices at home. When he received his international visa to study in the U.S., he knew engineering was the right path—even if he wasn’t immediately sure which discipline to pursue.
He initially explored electrical engineering before discovering that mechanical engineering best matched his curiosity and problem-solving mindset. That decision would shape the rest of his academic and professional career.
Overcoming Challenges as an International Student
Like many international students, Diaga faced significant personal and academic challenges. Learning a new language, adapting to a different culture, and navigating an unfamiliar educational system—all while managing the financial pressures of being an international student—required determination and focus.
“One of my biggest challenges was adapting to a new language and culture while pursuing a demanding academic program,” he said. “Despite this, I remained focused on my goals and used those challenges as motivation.”
Why Reynolds Was the Right Choice
Affordability and support played a critical role in Diaga’s decision to attend Reynolds. He sought a college that offered strong academics, smaller class sizes, and meaningful financial support.
Diaga’s experience at Reynolds extended beyond academics. He worked at the campus bookstore, where he enjoyed helping fellow students find textbooks and supplies, and built connections across campus. Scholarships—including a textbook scholarship—helped reduce his financial burden while allowing him to remain focused on his studies.
Academically, the program challenged him in the best way possible, preparing him for upper-level engineering coursework after transferring.
Several instructors played a pivotal role in Diaga’s success. He credits Dr. Kendra Brinkley and Professor Sylvia Clay, along with courses such as Mechanics of Materials and Thermodynamics, for providing the strong foundation that supported his transfer to Virginia Commonwealth University.
“The solid foundation I gained was clear when I later took Fluid Mechanics, Solid Mechanics, and other advanced engineering courses,” he said. “I still reflect on those formative classes when I hear anything relating to these subjects.”
From Graduation to a Thriving Career
Graduating from Reynolds marked a defining moment in Diaga’s journey—one that represented both academic achievement and personal growth.
Today, Diaga works as a Service Engineer at Asset Performance Partners Inc.—a role that requires frequent travel. On one of those flights last year, he had an unexpected encounter at the Atlanta airport with Reynolds President Paula Pando. He took the opportunity to thank her personally and share his story—a moment that underscored the lasting connection he feels to the college that helped launch his career.
Now married to another Reynolds alum, Diaga continues to see the direct application of his education in the field. He recalls visiting a power plant and experiencing “flashbacks” to Professor Clay’s Thermodynamics class—particularly lessons on the Rankine Cycle—affirming the real-world relevance of his Reynolds education.
Advice for Future and Current Students
When asked about the secret to his success, Diaga doesn’t hesitate.
“Consistency, discipline, and perseverance,” he said. “Believing in the process allowed me to overcome obstacles and continue moving forward.”
His advice to prospective students is simple but powerful: once you choose a career path, commit fully and take action. For those who are struggling, he offers reassurance grounded in experience.
“Struggling does not mean failing,” he said. “It means you’re learning and growing.”
From ESL student to mechanical engineering graduate to traveling engineering professional, Diaga Sokhna’s journey is a powerful testament to what determination, support, and opportunity can achieve—and to the life-changing impact of a Reynolds education.
To learn more about the Mechanical Engineering program at Reynolds, visit our website.