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Clubs and activities

I was involved in ASCE, Engineers Without Borders, The Vine Ministry, and multiple intramural sports (volleyball, flag football, table tennis).

Valuable hands-on learning in class

The most valuable classroom hands-on learning was my final senior design capstone project. This was most valuable because I got to have independence in my design while still utilizing professors and resources from Iowa State University.

Valuable out-of-the-classroom experience

I have two most valuable experiences. My first valuable experience was my three summers of internship experience I got from Shive-Hattery. While at Shive-Hattery, I worked on various projects involving water resources, site design, and transportation design. Working there helped me narrow down what I wanted to do in my career. My second valuable experience was going to Switzerland with Dr. Alice Alipour as an undergrad research project. There, I was able to see what post-undergrad education was like; I was able to immerse myself in the culture and sharpen my presenting and communication skills. 

Most influential mentor

My two most influential mentors at Iowa State were Dr. Alice Alipour and Dr. Leah Mo. Both of these professors were pivotal in helping me decide what I wanted post-graduation and supporting me as an undergraduate student.  

Best memory/greatest accomplishment

Some of my best memories at Iowa State have been participating in intramural sports and hanging out with the friends I met from my classes. I have made friendships with my classmates that will last for years. 

Plans after graduation

I have accepted a position at Shive-Hattery on their Transportation team. 

Support from Engineering Career Services

Engineering Career Services has been beneficial with the financial part of getting internships and my full-time employment. When I got my internship, I scheduled an appointment with them to ensure I received fair compensation for my expertise. As well as when I got my full-time job offer, I ran my salary by them to make sure it was appropriate. 

Making my mark on the world 

I want to build roads and transportation systems to help people and society get around more efficiently while being conscious of the environmental impact. 

Engineering like a Cyclone Engineer

The best part about being an Iowa State engineer is the college’s endless opportunities. I have had multiple opportunities to go to various conferences and seminars that were local and elsewhere. I have been given opportunities to learn from multiple professors about their path to teaching and what industry experience they had. Lastly, the experience of going international changed my thinking about engineering and how different countries and cultures set up their transportation systems. 

What I’d tell my younger self about Iowa State

I would tell my younger self that I developed new confidence in myself professionally and personally from being at Iowa State, as multiple classes push you to get out of your comfort zone and learn new methods and perspectives. 

Most inspiring location on campus

One location where I feel particularly inspired as a Cyclone Engineer is the Iowa State Parks Library. I spent countless days and nights at the library using the individual study rooms and the desks around the bookshelves. It was at the library where I would complete my most challenging assignments and study for upcoming exams. 

Read more: 12 outstanding seniors, ready to make their mark