Dean’s Student Leadership awardee: Soren Hellyer, materials engineering

Clubs and activities

Engineering Student Council, Material Advantage, First-Year Leaders in Engineering, Anders House, Symphonic Band

Valuable hands-on learning in class

My most impactful in-the-classroom experiences were my specialization labs, microfabrication, and glass classes. These labs were semester-long projects where we were able to take charge of the experiments we were performing. Not only did these classes reinforce my interest in materials science, but they also were extremely hands-on and gave me more in-depth experiences than any of my other labs.

Valuable out-of-the-classroom experience

My most valuable out-of-the-classroom experience was my time in Dr. Sid Pathak’s research group. I was a part of that group for five semesters, starting my second semester at Iowa State. That opportunity really introduced me to materials science and prepared me for my courses. Beyond coursework, it helped me explore research interests, receive specialized training, and do research!

Most influential mentor

Joel Johnson, Director of Student Services for Engineering Career Services, has been my most influential mentor at Iowa State. As the advisor of Engineering Student Council, he has led me through my leadership roles in the organization. He has taught me so much about leadership, planning, and the university, but most importantly, has been consistently advocating for me and supporting me.

Best memory/greatest accomplishment

My favorite memory from Iowa State was participating in Kaleidoquiz and QuickyKwiz, trivia competitions hosted by the Iowa State student radio KURE 88.5. These are long (26 and 6 hour) radio trivia competitions that I have participated in every semester at Iowa State. My favorite memories have come from bunkering down with my friends and working together to answer questions. Two standout moments include: taking a team picture after KQ24 with nearly 40 materials engineers who participated and, answering the final question of QK23 correctly to win the competition.

Plans after graduation

I plan on attending the University of Michigan to pursue a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering.

Making my mark on the world

As an engineer, I want to make positive impacts on my communities and help the world by promoting environmentally friendly practices. No matter what direction I take my work, I know I can focus on these two goals. Additionally, the science and engineering mentors I had through high school and college were crucial to my success. I want to give back to my future communities and mentor those who are interested in science and engineering, and help them achieve their goals.

Engineering like a Cyclone Engineer

I think the most unique thing about being an Iowa State engineer is the number of engineering clubs we have on campus. Everyone has the ability to find a club that not only interests them but also likely directly relates to their major or role as an engineer. As someone who has worked closely with many of the engineering clubs, it is inspiring to see the impact of club involvement on students.

What I’d tell my younger self about Iowa State

From choosing Iowa State, I gained the opportunity to join a large group of engineers and utilize the resources of a R1 research institute. I was able to stay in music, find my people, keep up with my hobbies, and join organizations, all while having access to the countless opportunities and connections offered by Iowa State’s size and reputation.

How I chose my major

I intended to join Iowa State as an undeclared engineer. Through my virtual visit, I met with Martha Selby who explained materials engineering to me. When registering for classes shortly before my first semester, I was intrigued by materials science, and I knew it was a small department. I was interested in chemistry and physics, so I decided to declare while I was registering for classes and have stuck with it since.

Most inspiring location on campus

The place I most feel like a Cyclone Engineer is in the materials engineering student room. It is the place where I have spent the most time on campus, studying, working, and having fun alongside many of my peers and close friends. It has been great to have this space to collaborate on coursework and projects and also make my closest friends.