Katie Meyer: College of Engineering student marshal, mechanical engineering

Clubs and activities

I served on the Society of Women Engineers outreach committee and was involved in Salt Company. I was also part of Pay It Forward, a student group that does volunteer projects in Ames and across the country.

Valuable hands-on learning in class

In ME 2700, our semester-long group project allowed us to go through the engineering design process from start to finish. The course was a good introduction to how mechanical engineering concepts are applied in practice, and it also gave me valuable experience working collaboratively on a team. My group designed a water cart and pump that could be used to address water needs in developing nations, and we were able to manufacture and test our design in the Boyd Lab. I felt more prepared to approach technical challenges during my internships because of my experiences in this class.

Valuable out-of-the-classroom experience

Participating in undergraduate research throughout college came with many valuable learning experiences. It gave me the opportunity to apply class concepts to solve real problems, use some of the cutting-edge equipment available on campus, and collaborate with several professors. Trying to solve problems without clearly defined solutions was often challenging, but it pushed me to think more creatively and develop a stronger engineering mindset.

Most influential mentor

My most influential mentor during my time at Iowa State was Morgan, a staff member from Salt Company. She helped me grow in my faith, and her kindness and care have had a lasting impact on my life.

Best memory/greatest accomplishment

Many of my favorite memories come from late nights with my roommates and friends, laughing, baking, playing games, or watching movies when we all needed a break from studying.

Plans after graduation

After graduation, I will start Caterpillar’s Engineering Rotational Development Program for product development. The program lasts 12-18 months with rotations between different engineering groups.

A memorable moment of kindness

One spring semester, a big snowstorm hit Ames the weekend before classes started back up, and my roommates and I decided to brave the cold to build a snowman. As we worked, a bus driver who was waiting nearby came out of the bus and joined in! It was a fun reminder to me that connection and joy can be found even in simple moments like that.

Persevering through challenging times

Starting college was a big transition, and it took me some time to find my place and connect with other students in engineering. Getting involved with student organizations, especially the Society of Women Engineers, helped me build meaningful relationships and find a supportive community, and I gained confidence in my decision to pursue engineering.

Support from Engineering Career Services

I used Engineering Career Services resources at nearly every step of my career preparation process in college. Events like the Rapid Resume Reviews and Career Fair Prep sessions were important in helping me learn how to highlight and communicate my experiences effectively. After getting my internships and co-op, registering those experiences with ECS was also helpful to evaluate and reflect on what I had learned.

Making my mark on the world

As I go out into the world as an engineer, I’m hoping to use creativity and problem solving to bring joy to others and to develop meaningful solutions to real challenges. I believe the tools and mindset of an engineer can be a force for positive change, both in my profession and in my everyday life.

Engineering like a Cyclone Engineer

Being a Cyclone Engineer means embracing opportunities for growth while supporting others along the way. My classes have been both challenging and fulfilling. I’ve had so many great professors who have encouraged me to reach my full potential, and the College of Engineering staff have provided so many opportunities to build skills outside of the classroom. Whenever I wanted to explore new interests, the resources and guidance I needed were always available to me. I’ve also been surrounded by classmates and friends who were willing to face challenges and grow through them together.

What I’d tell my younger self about Iowa State

I would tell my younger self not to hesitate in choosing Iowa State. So many good things awaited me here. As a student, I’ve felt valued and supported. I’ve also had many opportunities for growth beyond academics, including traveling on a study abroad program and with several student organizations. Iowa State’s campus is beautiful, and Ames has been a wonderful community to live in. Most of all, the people I’ve met have truly made my college experience what it was. I’ll cherish so many memories and lasting friendships from my time at Iowa State.

Most inspiring location on campus

I love the area around the Marston Water Tower, which I walk through almost every day on my way to class. To me, the water tower is a tangible connection to the many Iowa State engineering students who have come before me. I also see it as a testament to the capabilities of Cyclone Engineers, and a good reminder that the sky is truly the limit!