Shanna Kleve: Outstanding senior in construction engineering

Clubs and activities

I have been involved in the Associated General Contractors (AGC) student organization on campus for all eight semesters during my time at Iowa State. I am currently a cabinet member and run all social media and branding for our student organization. Additionally, I have participated in Associated Schools of Construction (ASC) competitions.  

Valuable hands-on learning in class

I believe the most valuable hands-on learning opportunities were all of the group projects we do in our program. Through the various group projects, I have learned how to communicate effectively with teammates to present solutions to a problem. Two of the most notable group projects are our capstone courses. Both of these courses summarize all learning and require a lot of group effort and learning. 

Valuable out-of-the-classroom experience

I believe my summer internship experiences were the most valuable. I learned so much about construction through various industry mentors. I gained real-world experience, which ultimately led to my success in the classroom as well. 

Most influential mentor

My most influential mentor at Iowa State has been construction engineering professor Jenny Baker. I truly enjoyed her class and learned so much about different avenues your career can take. She has always been willing to talk with me about future plans and career opportunities to help me succeed. 

Best memory/greatest accomplishment

My favorite memories at Iowa State were the numerous break trips I went on with AGC. Through these trips, I had the opportunity to travel across the country and learn the importance of serving others. I also got to know my peers on a deeper level, and now I have a network of people as I enter into my career. 

Plans after graduation

I will be working with JE Dunn Construction. 

A memorable moment of kindness

I was stressed during my capstone course. My professor pulled me aside and helped me to mentally get through the project. Through this, I learned that my professors care about who I am as a person, not just a student. 

Persevering through challenging times

Prior to entering college, I was debating between architecture and engineering. What helped me to persevere and choose engineering was my love of problem-solving. I learned that I wanted to learn how buildings get put together, not design them. 

Support from Engineering Career Services

Engineering Career Services helped me find multiple internships through the career fair. The career fair was easy to navigate, making it easy to find companies I wanted to talk to. The next day interview setup allowed for an easy way for me to interview with companies. Career Services also helped me take a professional headshot for student competitions and LinkedIn. 

Your major in your own words

Construction engineering is a combination of civil engineering principles, combined with an emphasis on construction management and control. Our program is filled with professors with relevant construction experience to prepare students for careers in the construction industry. 

Making my mark on the world

I want my mark on the world as an engineer to be one of kindness. I want someone to say their life was better because I was in it. 

Engineering like a Cyclone Engineer

I think a unique thing about Iowa State engineering is the versatile options for programs. Prior to college, I didn’t know what engineering major I wanted to choose. I chose Iowa State because I knew they had a large range of outstanding programs and I would find my place. 

What I’d tell my younger self about Iowa State

I would tell younger me that choosing Iowa State is going to be one of the best decisions in my life. I would tell myself about the long-lasting friendships and amazing experiences I would have. 

Most inspiring location on campus

I feel particularly inspired by Town Engineering. I spent more time in this building in the past four years than anywhere else. It was here that I bonded with my classmates and built long-lasting friendships.