Meet FDU Alumnus Alumni Spotlight on Elan Wenger, BA'21, MA'22

Elan Wenger came to college feeling unprepared and left ready to take on the world, thanks in large part to FDU’s COMPASS program, which provides individually tailored, comprehensive, academic and social support for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

“With the support of the COMPASS program, I grew into the college level course-load and became so much better than what I thought my best self was at the time,” said Wenger. “COMPASS played an important role in my life, and I am forever grateful for their support!”

As an undergrad, Wenger took advantage of multiple internships in the areas of software engineering and social media management, including at Xyberfocus, Pzena Investment Management, The Simons Foundation and The American Friends of Jamaica. Upon graduation he was hired by PNC Bank and has transitioned from Technology Development Analyst to his current role as Software Engineer.

He is already giving back to FDU as a member of the recently formed Board of Directors of the Gildart Haase School of Computer Science and Engineering.

Learn more about Elan:

Name: Elan Wenger

FDU Graduation Year(s) & Major: BA’21 3D Animation major/Computer Science minor; MA’22 in 3D Animation

Campus(es) where you studied: Florham/Madison

Family: Parents Russell and Vicki and sisters Lexi and Rachel.

Current occupation/volunteer efforts: Software Engineer, PNC Bank

Hobbies & Interests: Animals, outdoors, running, animation, app development.

What is your favorite memory of FDU? Meeting my first college BFF’s Alden and Sydney

Were you involved in any specific activities at FDU: Graphic Design Club, COMPASS

What was your favorite place on campus and why? The cafe. It was a great place to socialize and work.

Who was the most influential person in your FDU Experience: Professor Justin Shaw. He challenged and pushed me to work at my hardest, bringing the best out of me.

What keeps you connected to FDU? FDU made me who I am today and I am forever grateful to them! I will always look back on my FDU years as the most important of my life.

One piece of advice for current FDU students? Don’t let any early failures get to you. Those failures are the best teachers you’ll probably ever have!

Where you can find me on social media:  Instagram