The Iowa State University College of Engineering is proud to present the Spring 2026 Outstanding Seniors.
Outstanding Seniors are selected each semester from among college graduates, and one is named student marshal, representing the college at commencement.
Enjoy reflections from this semester’s honorees, and click the links to read more.
“Choosing Iowa State not only provided me with a high-quality engineering education, but it also changed my life. Surrounded by supportive faculty, mentors, and peers, I grew both academically and personally. Looking back, I would tell my younger self that this experience gave me the confidence, perseverance, and clarity to shape my future.”
Electrical Engineering
“I think the best thing about the Iowa State engineering experience is how much hands-on experience is encouraged. There are so many ways to get involved and learn more about what you are doing in class practically.”
Biological Systems Engineering
“Being a Cyclone Engineer means being creative and leaning on your support systems. At Iowa State, I have experienced countless opportunities to expand my comfort zone and to be creative in designing solutions to the problems we see around us.”
Chemical Engineering
“A Cyclone Engineer approaches real-world problems with curiosity, passion, and teamwork. Iowa State excels at developing engineers through hands-on labs, undergraduate research opportunities, and strong industry connections that keep students engaged and motivated.”
Environmental Engineering
“It is my goal as a future environmental engineer to help people stay healthy and increase access to proper water and wastewater treatment systems. The lack of access to clean water and proper sanitation is among the most critical issues in the world, especially given the technology we have to help solve them. If I am doing my job correctly, fewer people will have to worry about the quality of the water they drink or swim in. I hope to impact people and their communities in a positive, long-lasting way through my engineering career.”
Civil Engineering
“I strive to design buildings that are resilient, interesting, and improve the well-being of people across all walks of life.”
Software Engineering
“As an engineer, I hope to use my talents to serve others by creating a more secure and user-friendly digital world.”
Materials Engineering
“Having the opportunity to work at a national laboratory opened my eyes to the world of research and helped me realize that I wanted to continue doing research, go to graduate school, and then eventually pursue a career in research and development.”
Agricultural Engineering
“I would tell a younger me that Iowa State was one of the best decisions that I have made. I have made some of the best friends and connections possible at this university, and I would choose it every time. I have also gained a career that is closely aligned with what I have always wanted to do.”
Industrial Engineering
“Engineering like a Cyclone Engineer means having a strong passion to learn and use that knowledge to make the world a better place. Iowa State makes that easy with how many opportunities there are to learn, get involved, and try new things. Cyclone Engineers are curious, driven, and always looking for ways to grow.”
Mechanical Engineering
“I hope I can meaningfully support the advancement of human capabilities in terms of what we can access, do, and see. I want to answer as many questions as possible by integrating ideas from different fields and developing reliable solutions that benefit everyone.”
Cybersecurity Engineering
“As a cybersecurity engineer, I want to develop new solutions and services that protect people around the world from the ever-growing number of new digital threats. Everyone deserves the right to privacy over their data, and I aim to ensure that throughout my professional career.”
Construction Engineering
“I would tell younger me that choosing Iowa State is going to be one of the best decisions in my life, and about the long-lasting friendships and amazing experiences I would have. 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.”
Follow the College of Engineering on social media for more on the Cyclone Engineering experience from the perspective of Outstanding Seniors.
