on National Major Field Test 

Elizabeth City, N.C. — Now well into the fall semester, Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) is continuing to build on last semester’s academic achievements with the same strong approach. One standout example comes from the mathematics department, where students who took the ETS Major Field Test (MFT) in mathematics last spring delivered top-tier results. Several ECSU students scored in the 95th percentile nationwide on the ETS Major Field Test (MFT) in mathematics, earning a top score of 200 and placing themselves among the best in the country.   

The MFT is a nationally recognized exam that evaluates students’ mastery of key concepts and analytical skills within their chosen discipline. For mathematics students, this means demonstrating understanding in areas such as calculus, algebra, statistics and mathematical reasoning. ECSU’s performance showcases the individual brilliance of its scholars and the growing national reputation of its mathematics program.   

“I am pleased to share that our students performed exceptionally well on the ETS Major Field Test in mathematics last spring,” said Weizheng Gao, Ph.D., assistant professor of Math, Computer Science, and Engineering Technology, and guest editor for the international journal Axioms. “Such high scores reflect the academic excellence and rigor of the mathematics program at ECSU.”   

The achievement comes as ECSU continues to emphasize academic innovation, student-centered teaching and high-impact learning experiences across STEM disciplines. The Department of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Engineering Technology has invested in strengthening curriculum alignment, expanding faculty mentorship, and promoting analytical thinking across all student levels.   

Julian Allagan, Ph.D., director of graduate studies and professor of math, helped oversee the MFT preparation and also praised the students’ consistent academic effort. “These results showcase how ECSU students can compete on a national stage and win,” he said.   

With scores in the 95th percentile, ECSU’s math students are setting a new standard for what Viking scholars can achieve and making more progress toward a promising academic year ahead.  

Among the students who earned top scores on the exam are:   

Asaya Bulgin 

Asaya Bulgin, a recent graduate of ECSU, earned dual bachelor’s degrees in engineering technology (robotics and autonomous systems) and mathematics. A Columbus, Ohio native, she competed on the ECSU women’s basketball team from 2022 to 2025 and contributed to research through the Novel Consortia and internships at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Her projects included autonomous robotics, nuclear deterrence and telescope design. Now a GEM Fellow, she is pursuing a master’s in mechanical engineering at North Carolina A&T State University with interests in additive manufacturing and robotics.   

Joshua Harrell 

Joshua Harrell is a senior and double major in mathematics and computer science. Originally from Manhattan, New York, Harrell has contributed to UAV and flood-monitoring projects at ECSU, led a cybersecurity simulation through Intel, and supported infrastructure with the city’s IT department. He earned top honors at a TACC hackathon, developed an NLP chatbot, and serves as president of ECSU’s Hispanic Heritage Club. An LSAMP scholar and dean’s list student, he plans to use AI and data science to improve infrastructure resilience and public systems.   

Deonna Sinclair 

Deonna Sinclair is a senior mathematics major and a first-generation college student. Originally from Hampton, Virginia, she has lived in several states and developed a passion for education, creativity, and service. She aspires to become a math educator who inspires others, particularly underrepresented students in STEM. Known for her curiosity and independent learning, Sinclair seeks to combine her academic strengths and life experiences to serve as both a teacher and a role model.  

Luz Rivera 

Luz Rivera is a senior and double major in engineering technology (robotics and autonomous systems) and mathematics, with a minor in computer science. Originally from Mexico, she is a first-generation college student who has supported robotic in-space assembly during a NASA internship and continues working on ECSU’s AI Vision Robot project. Rivera is committed to increasing diversity in STEM through mentorship and outreach and aims to pursue graduate studies in robotics, with a focus on developing surgical-assisting systems.   

Shanae Perry 

Shanae Perry is a senior mathematics major with a minor in secondary education. Currently serving as a student teacher at Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Early College, Perry is preparing to become a licensed educator and pursue a master’s in mathematics education. Her goal is to combine data analysis with instructional strategies to improve STEM learning outcomes. She ultimately plans to serve as an education manager, focusing on the use of statistics to evaluate and advance educational frameworks.   

Jordan Brown 

Jordan Brown is a senior from Woodbridge, Virginia, majoring in mathematics and elementary education. Her passion for numbers and problem-solving has guided her academic journey at ECSU, where she has combined analytical precision with a love for teaching. After graduation, she plans to pursue a master’s degree and a career in data analytics, using her background in mathematics and education to drive insight and innovation in the field.  

Behind the high scores are stories of hard work and students who pushed through challenges. ECSU’s national ranking reflects the institution’s dedication to student performance. For more information about ECSU’s Department of Mathematics, Computer Science, and Engineering Technology, visit here.