Shanna Fellows: Outstanding senior in civil engineering

Hometown

Albia, Iowa

Clubs and activities

At Iowa State, I have been involved as a Student Role Model through the WiSE department, I have been an officer with the archery club, and I am in the honors program. I have also enjoyed helping with Society of Women Engineers’ outreach activities, attending Horticulture Club meetings, and getting involved in a C-group through Salt Company. I have also worked as an undergraduate research assistant through the CCEE department for 3 years. 

Valuable hands-on learning in class 

The Environmental Engineering Science/Systems classes taught by Karou Ikuma have been invaluable in helping me understand the principles behind the physical and chemical processes of treatment systems as well as the factors behind the decision-making of different environmental ethics issues. 

Out-of-the-classroom engineering experience 

My internships really helped me find what I was interested in early on in my education and allowed me to learn valuable engineering skills before they were taught in my classwork. 

Most influential mentor 

My most influential mentor has been Lu Liu, assistant professor of civil, construction and environmental engineering. She has been my research mentor since the spring of 2022. She has been incredibly supportive, pushing me to learn new things and experience as much as I can as an undergraduate researcher. 

Best memory 

One of my best memories at ISU has been getting to travel and present my research at a national conference in Long Beach, CA. I have worked as a research assistant through the CCEE department for 7 semesters, and this trip allowed me to showcase my work from my years in the program. This conference gave me the opportunity to share my work with students and faculty from all over the country while getting to see the ocean for the first time.  

Plans after graduation 

I will be working at HR Green as a water/wastewater staff engineer. I will continue to study for my PE exam and earn my professional engineering license as soon as I am able. 

Making my mark on the world 

My goal is to help people and the environment. I hope to have a long career helping local communities have safe water and protecting waterways. 

Engineering like a Cyclone Engineer 

The best part about being a Cyclone Engineer is being able to participate and thrive in many parts of the college experience at the same time. I was always encouraged to be involved with activities, work, and make connections with peers while being a committed, full-time student.