From Service to Science

Nygil Lowery's Journey from the U.S. Navy to Aspiring Astrophysicist at USD

The Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering recently spoke with Nygil Lowery ‘27 (CS), a veteran who served eight years in the U.S. Navy, and asked him about his experience of transitioning from active duty to academics.

Lowery is a computer science transfer student, with a minor in mathematics and physics. He shared the resources and networking opportunities at the University of San Diego that helped him open up doors, find his community and navigate his path to his dream of becoming an astrophysicist. 

Q: When did you decide you wanted to be an astrophysicist?
A: My parents sparked my interest. They always echoed the importance of my education. As a kid, I watched National Geographic, the Science Channel and the Discovery Channel and I listened to Carl Sagan’s documentary series. I grew up in South Carolina and we had a trampoline in the backyard. My parents bought me a telescope on my 8th birthday. My whole family was jumping on the trampoline. They all got off and it was just me and my new telescope on the trampoline. I stood there, looking into the telescope, and for the first time, I saw the surface of the moon. I always wanted to be an astrophysicist since I can remember. I want to be around the most brilliant people — people who are on the cutting edge of scientific research.  

Q: What drew you to apply to the University of San Diego (USD)?
A: Prior to coming to USD, I was going to San Diego City College and met one of their counselors, "Ms. Shelley" Barajas-Leyva, who got her undergraduate and graduate degrees here at USD. She knew I would get my GI bill so I could go where I wanted. She was advocating for every school, but USD in particular. State was closer to me and USD was way too far with traffic, but I decided USD was the best option with much smaller classes, faculty that really cares about you and professors that exude academic excellence, which is why they are here.

Q: How did you navigate the application process?
A: Scott Yahner, assistant director for transfer admission at USD, had me apply in April, which was super late. Scott needed all of these forms and I had to verify my grades and completed classes. Scott jumped through hoops to help me — I want to find him to shake his hand. Ms. Shelly was so excited I applied. She was really helpful, too. I think her best advice was to ask for Dr. Harley when I visited USD. I got accepted within one month with all of their help and came in May of 2024. Fall was my first semester. 

Q: How did you find your sense of community in this new environment?
A: I visited the campus and walked around to see Donald’s Garage and the Ideations Space. Dr. Harley saw me walk by and she asked if I was lost. I told her Ms. Shelley sent me. Connecting with Dr. Rhonda Harley opened doors for me, and from that moment, the campus became my oyster. I couldn’t believe an assistant dean personally introduced me to the Military Veterans Program (MVP) office, where I found camaraderie among fellow veterans. This does not happen. EVER! You don’t realize it until you go somewhere else. It’s normal for students here — to be personable here. That was what I really wanted. I was breaking myself out of one community, and now that I was out as a civilian, I longed for a community. I immediately had that here. 

Q: How do you navigate selecting your courses?
A: I went to Rick Olson and he helped me with what CS classes to take to set myself up for the first semester. Angelo [Colon’s] academic counseling really helped in terms of knowing what classes demand. If you don't know better, he will ask, “Are you sure?” If I didn’t listen to the wise person, I would screw this up and lose a year. Angelo is the GOAT! 

Q: Describe the resources that made the largest impact on you as you transitioned to the University of San Diego.
A: As a transfer student, I wanted to start strong academically, so I frequently utilized campus resources like the Math Learning Center (MLC) and the Linux Lab. I was intentional about building relationships with faculty and quickly became involved with the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). Student Support Services (SSS) became a beacon of guidance and resources, helping me navigate my academic journey with confidence.

Nygil Lowery's journey from military service to pursuing his dream of becoming an astrophysicist exemplifies the transformative power of a supportive academic environment. As he continues to navigate his academic path, Lowery's story serves as an inspiration to other veterans considering higher education, demonstrating that with the right support system and determination, the transition from military service to academic pursuits can be not just manageable, but truly rewarding.

— By Michelle Sztupkay