Pictured from top left: Vanessa Hupp, Kara Albrecht, Kennedey Reiling, Sarah Mumm, Greg Carter, Michael Miller, Katie Wolf, Mateo Rubel, Kai Heng Gan, Bethany Groos, John Titus Barnett, Kalista Leners.
The Iowa State University College of Engineering is proud to present the fall 2024 outstanding seniors.
Outstanding seniors are selected each semester from among College of Engineering graduates, and one outstanding senior is named student marshal, representing the college at commencement.
In their time at Iowa State, these students met mentors and friends, participated in clubs and activities, gained hands-on engineering experience both in and out of the classroom, found inspirational spaces on campus, and dreamed about the mark they’ll make on the world as Cyclone Engineers.
Enjoy reflections from this year’s honorees, and click the links to read more.
Katie Wolf, College of Engineering student marshal, computer engineering
“Being an engineer at Iowa State means pushing yourself to reach your full potential and helping others along the way.”
Michael Miller, aerospace engineering
“I would not be the same student or soon-to-be-engineer without (first) becoming a Cyclone. I would not trade the relationships I have made here for anything.”
Kennedey Reiling, electrical engineering
“As I prepare to leave Iowa State, I will reflect on all those long nights I spent working in Coover Hall and feel a sense of accomplishment and inspiration.”
John Titus Barnett, materials science and engineering
“Being a Cyclone Engineer means investing in oneself and one’s peers to grow — not just as engineers — but as people.”
Kai Heng Gan, cyber security engineering
“To engineer like a Cyclone Engineer means to embrace challenges with resilience and creativity, use knowledge to make a positive impact, and always strive for excellence in both technical and ethical dimensions of engineering.”
Vanessa Hupp, chemical engineering
“Iowa State has cultivated an environment where innovation and exploration are encouraged, whether through research, clubs, or internships. This leads many of the engineers to graduate with the mindset of ‘why doesn’t this work’ and ‘how can we improve this.'”
Sarah Mumm, civil engineering
“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.”
Kalista Leners, mechanical engineering
“I’m fortunate to have friends who are not only eager to participate in fun activities but also dedicated to late-night study sessions, helping each other tackle difficult courses. Their support has kept me motivated and made challenging classes much more manageable.”
Greg Carter, software engineering
“The people here move for you. They don’t just tell you to do something, they show you the path to success.”
Bethany Groos, biological systems engineering
“When I think of Cyclone Engineering, I think of innovative, hard-working students who want to continue asking questions about what we can do to improve the world.”
Kara Albrecht, industrial engineering
“Starting college during COVID taught me the value of human connection. As an engineer, I want to create solutions that bring people together and create meaningful connections.”
Mateo Rubel, agricultural engineering
“I became a well-rounded engineer with incredible job experiences, and I adapted to a whole new culture and thrived. I leave Iowa State with a lot of friends, beautiful memories, and pride.”