Feature Stories 2025: Leandro Neves ’25: Wired for success at UMass Dartmouth

The hum of a machine, the precision of a moving part, and the spark of innovation—these are the sounds and sights that invigorate Leandro Neves ’25, a first-generation student from Plymouth, MA, in his final year of the electrical engineering program at UMass Dartmouth. His focus? Robotics. 

“I chose UMass Dartmouth because there were so many opportunities to research and grow as a scholar, especially through the Honors College program,” Neves said. “I've always loved the technology behind developing new things, as well as the creative aspect of engineering.” 

As Neves gears up to join this cutting-edge field one day, he’s not just studying circuits and algorithms; he’s gaining critical skills and knowledge necessary to make groundbreaking advancements in the future, pushing the boundaries of technology and making a real impact. However, only one question remained: How could he overcome the financial barriers that stood between him and his dream? 

Neves took matters in his own hands by working through high school and into his first year at UMass Dartmouth, but funding his education remained a challenge he couldn’t tackle on his own. He said, "With my family being from Brazil, I didn’t have much knowledge of how to navigate college and manage my finances all by myself. Once I learned how much scholarships help students like me stay in school, I began applying for them so I could have a sense of security. It was such a relief when I was awarded the funds I needed to succeed." 

Since receiving scholarship support, Neves has blossomed as a Corsair, determined to get deeply involved on campus and position himself for a successful career by taking on leadership roles and seeking out every opportunity to learn and grow. He currently serves as President of the Honors College Council, President of oSTEM, Secretary of the Robotics Club, and a student representative for the College of Engineering, while also staying connected with his Brazilian roots by being Treasurer of the Lusophone Student Union (LSU).  

Outside of his leadership roles, Neves gained pivotal hands-on experience at the UMass Dartmouth School for Marine Science and Technology (SMAST) in New Bedford, conducting undergraduate research involving LIDARs and coastal shore mapping alongside faculty. He also spent a summer at SMAST designing, testing, and implementing an autonomous data collection system to streamline the process. 

“As part of the Honors College Council, I had the opportunity to lead an alumni event last year, where I helped alumni reconnect and network with students. Along with my scholarships, it made me realize that I want to give back once I graduate,” Neves said. He’s grateful for scholarships that have shouldered the weight of his financial burdens, allowing him to chase down once-in-a-lifetime chances that would have otherwise been out of reach. 

“The opportunities I've gained through the Honors College, my clubs, and my classes have been invaluable,” he continued, “and one of my main goals as an alum is to give back as much as possible, especially because scholarships have helped me pursue my passions.” 

As he anticipates Commencement this May, Neves is contemplating his next step—whether that be adding a master’s degree to his list of accolades or stepping directly into the robotics industry as a skilled professional. Whatever he decides, one thing is certain: his journey to lifelong success, nurtured by the generosity of donors, has only just begun. 

“As part of the Honors College Council, I had the opportunity to lead an alumni event last year, where I helped alumni reconnect and network with students. Along with my scholarships, it made me realize that I want to give back once I graduate."