Cynnava McAvoy: Outstanding senior in biological systems engineering

Clubs and activities

Engineers Without Borders, Iowa State Crew Club

Valuable hands-on learning in class

I had several projects throughout my education that gave me the opportunity to work with clients and make an impact outside of academia. For my capstone project I collaborated with an emerging company dedicated to sustainable food production. My group and I applied our knowledge from engineering and project management classes to enhance the company’s design. Another valuable project I’m currently involved in is the revitalization of a city park in Cedar Falls. My team and I are working with the city and stakeholders to combine architecture and engineering, aiming to improve the park’s ecological and recreational functions. This project has taught me the importance of community engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Valuable out-of-the-classroom experience

I was extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to teach an engineering course as part of a summer study abroad program in Spain. As a teaching assistant for the class, I already had a deep understanding of the course. However, becoming the instructor allowed me to become an expert on the subject and develop leadership and teaching skills in a unique atmosphere. This experience taught me how to effectively communicate complex concepts and manage a classroom, which are invaluable skills in any professional setting. Additionally, living with a host family gave me the chance to further my conversational Spanish and overcome cultural and lingual barriers.

Most influential mentor

Dr. Sara McMillan has been a very influential mentor during my time at Iowa State. She encouraged me to pursue grad school and helped me develop the project I will continue in my master’s program, starting as a junior in undergrad. Through her guidance, I have developed my skills as a researcher, made connections across the US, and learned about numerous restoration strategies and projects. Her mentorship has been instrumental in shaping my research interests and career aspirations.

Dr. Mike Helwigwas another influential mentor. He hired me as a TA, which taught me invaluable skills such as leadership, teaching, and time management. Through him I gained many connections and formed friendships with students around the world.

Best memory/greatest accomplishment

Some of my best memories at Iowa State were while I was peer mentoring. I got to know many of the other peer mentors in ABE, and we connected during various challenges, panels, and activities. This brought me closer to the people I ended up working on projects with in other classes, creating lasting friendships. I enjoyed giving advice to the younger classes and providing them with the motivation I needed when I first started here. These experiences not only helped me develop leadership and communication skills but also gave me a sense of fulfillment knowing I could positively impact others’ academic journeys.

Plans after graduation

I will complete my master’s degree in stream restoration at Iowa State in ABE with Dr. Sara McMillan.

Making my mark on the world

I want to be part of the force that brings restoration into the focal point of urban, agricultural, and waterway design. Ecological engineering bridges the gap between humans and the environment, and I want to demonstrate just how powerful that connection can be. My goal is to encourage is to encourage restoration and make it accessible and affordable not only for businesses and cities but also for residences. I hope to contribute to a healthier and more balanced ecosystem for future generations.

Engineering like a Cyclone Engineer

Iowa State is a renowned engineering school, especially the Agricultural and Biosystems Department. This brings opportunities ranging from jobs at competitive companies to groundbreaking research projects. Engineering at Iowa State shows you just how challenging it can be, but more importantly, how rewarding. As you progress in your education, your work transitions from learning to applying your skills and understanding to make a difference that impacts academia, industry, and the public.

What I’d tell my younger self about Iowa State

Iowa State is a place where you found a supportive community within your department and developed lifelong friendships. It fostered your growth into a competent engineer and researcher, providing the space to discover the career you were meant for and the lifestyle you wanted. You found people who are invested in your progress and are excited to watch you succeed in your career and in life.

Most inspiring location on campus

Sukup Hall’s atrium is the place on campus that has always inspired me. Countless hours were spent in the atrium studying, relaxing, mentoring, and bonding with my peers. It’s where we hold capstone presentations and congratulate graduating seniors, making it the central hub of the department.