Abby Schaefer: Outstanding senior in materials engineering

Clubs and activities

During my time at Iowa State, I was most involved as a peer mentor for the Engineering Exploration Program, as a tour leader for The Engineering Ambassador & Mentor Program (TEAM), and as a small group leader with the St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Student Ministry. I also participated in the University Honors Program and enjoyed various intramural sports.

Valuable hands-on learning in class

My most valuable in-the-classroom experiences were in labs that accompany many of the engineering courses. One of the most memorable labs was Failure Analysis (MATE 4440) where we were given a new “project” every two weeks and tasked with determining the cause of failure for a metallic component. In that lab, I was able to use several common materials characterization instruments such as a scanning electron microscope (SEM), mounting and polishing equipment, optical microscopes, hardness testers, and more. It felt like an accurate simulation of a real-world engineering situation where you are presented with a problem that has no obvious answer and asked to find a solution using little available information. I also really enjoyed the Solidification Processes lab (MATE/IE 3480) where I had the opportunity to practice different welding methods, create a layered composite, and cast coffee mugs out of aluminum.

Valuable out-of-the-classroom experience

As a sophomore, I spent a semester in Wisconsin completing a co-op with Encapsys, a specialty chemical manufacturing company. The experience was extremely valuable in pushing me to grow professionally as I saw for the first time what it was like to be an engineer working in industry. I observed applications of things I was learning in school and became independent navigating my first career-related job. In the end, that co-op sparked my interest and eventually led me to pursue a career in manufacturing.

Another out-of-the-classroom experience that was incredibly valuable was my summer spent studying abroad in Valencia, Spain. It gave me the opportunity to explore areas of the world and experience new cultures which broadened my perspective on life and continues to influence me today.

Most influential mentor

All of the faculty and staff in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering have served as inspiring mentors! From my academic advisor, Andrea Klocke, who has provided support and encouragement through every step of college to the instructors such as Dr. Ralph Napolitano, who challenged me to approach classwork differently, and Dr. Alan Constant, who always adds an element of fun to his lectures and assignments. From almost every faculty or staff member I’ve encountered at Iowa State and especially in the MSE department, I have gained invaluable knowledge, learned what it means to be a great leader, or been presented with challenges that promoted personal and academic growth.

Best memory/greatest accomplishment

One of my proudest accomplishments was branching out to take classes outside my major and explore other interests. Some examples include a baking course and more recently, metalworking in the College of Design. Metalworking pushed me outside my comfort zone and became a creative outlet. I saw different physical applications of metallurgy and enjoyed learning how to create art and jewelry.

My favorite memories are definitely the Saturdays spent tailgating and attending football games with my friends. Go Cyclones!

Plans after graduation

I will begin a full-time position with Honeywell Federal Manufacturing and Technology where I’ll be starting in their rotation program and experience three different engineering roles over the course of two years.

Persevering through challenging times

Although I was initially hesitant in high school about choosing engineering, once I started classes at Iowa State it has always felt like the right path for me. Of course, there have been plenty of busy weeks or late nights working on difficult assignments or studying for exams when it can sometimes feel like the work isn’t worth it. But I always find it helpful to focus on the long-term goals and remind myself of the opportunities that an engineering degree can bring. Remembering my passion for solving problems and reminding myself that I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be has helped me push through the challenging moments. I also have the most supportive and encouraging friends who lift me up whenever I’m doubting myself. I wouldn’t be here or successful without them.

Making my mark on the world

I’m looking forward to working towards something that’s bigger than myself. I want to use my knowledge and background in materials engineering to contribute to the fast-paced world of manufacturing. I hope to be a leader who lifts others up and leaves a positive, lasting impact on the people that I work with and the projects I get to be a part of.

Engineering like a Cyclone Engineer

To engineer like a Cyclone Engineer means taking advantage of the opportunities around you. When I think of what defines my time at Iowa State, my mind goes to all the times I said “yes.” There are countless opportunities that were made available because of my decision to attend this university. Iowa State provides resources that push students to be their best selves and grow into impactful engineers.

What I’d tell my younger self about Iowa State

I would tell a younger me that Iowa State is where she’s meant to be. It has given me the best people and experiences. During my time here I’ve grown both as a person and as an engineer in more ways than I could’ve hoped for. I’m grateful every day that I chose Iowa State.

Most inspiring location on campus

I always feel inspired when walking around Iowa State’s campus. Central Campus always looks beautiful in the fall when the leaves are changing colors or in the spring when plants are blooming. I even enjoy it in the middle of winter (especially if there’s a blanket of sparkly snow covering everything). Whether it was between classes or after a long day of studying, the outdoor sights of Iowa State always serve as a good reminder to slow down and enjoy the small things.