College of Engineering News • Iowa State University

ME alumna shares advice for success

Photo courtesy of Megan O’Leary, far right.

Interview with Megan O’Leary (’99 BSME, ’00 MSME)

Why did you choose Iowa State?

My mom is a fellow Iowa State graduate (’68), and I fell in love with the beautiful buildings and manicured lawns on campus visit during a family trip when I was 14. I was intrigued by engineering, and I knew Iowa State had a fantastic engineering program, so it sounded like a great fit.

How did you get involved on campus?

As an undergraduate, I was a member of Society of Women Engineers, the Varsity Women’s Soccer Team, and Alpha Phi Sorority.

What advice do you have for current Iowa State mechanical engineering students?

Ask a lot of questions! When I was a student, I was intimidated to admit if I didn’t inherently know something, but now I realize I’m not supposed to know everything. Learning and figuring out new things is part of the fun! If someone is unable to effectively explain a new concept to you, it is most likely an indication that they don’t understand the concept well themselves and not a sign that you cannot understand it.

What do you do now?

I work in the trial services division of FTI Consulting in Chicago, focusing on the creation of presentations for litigation disputes. Every project is an opportunity to problem solve and design a way to present complex issues, which aligns well with my engineering background. I’m a big fan of the Cubs and of traveling, especially to cheer on my beloved Cyclones in football and basketball.

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