Why did you choose to study at WPI? 

My main interest in studying at WPI, in addition to a strong industrial engineering program, was the format and project-based learning. I found that project-based learning and the term-length course schedule fit my learning style. I appreciated the freedom I had to take which courses I wanted and when. I was also very interested in collaborative experiences unique to WPI, such as the Interactive Qualifying Project (IQP) and the Major Qualifying Project (MQP). In a social sense, I was excited about the idea of joining a student body that has various interests and strong involvement in student activities.

How are you involved with the WPI community? 

I am involved in several clubs and activities. I have been involved in athletics most of my life and enjoy several sports. When I decided to attend WPI, I had the opportunity to join the WPI Women's Rowing Team. In rowing here, I have embraced the opportunity to learn a new skill and compete at a high level with the expertise of excellent coaches. I have also gained a team comprised of talented, motivated, and supportive people. Aside from being the most team-oriented sport I have tried, I enjoy rowing because it pushes me to be better. I also consider this sport self-care, in a sense, since it is both incredibly challenging, but also incredibly rewarding – whether it's celebrating moments of success or seeing personal growth and improvement.

   

In addition to athletics, I also enjoy other student groups such as IISE (Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers). This group has been helpful for meeting other students and faculty with an interest in my major. It is also great to discover different opportunities available.

   

Some of my other time outside of academics is spent working at the chemistry stockroom on campus or doing campus-based volunteer work.

What’s your favorite thing about WPI? 

Some of my favorite things about WPI are the varying interests of the students here. I like being in an environment where I can meet and work with a lot of individuals with many talents and interests.

Do you have a faculty or staff mentor? 

In academics, Professor Walter Towner has been very influential because he has been a great resource for academic and career advice that align with my prospective field. He has a significant amount of industry experience and is passionate about his position as professor.

   

Other people I have found helpful as mentors are the WPI Women's Rowing coaches. Each is unique in their expertise and teaching style, but all are motivating and supportive of my academic and athletic ventures.

How has WPI’s project-based learning influenced your education?

Project-based learning has given me relevant skills and experiences. Specifically, course projects allow me to explore various academic interests while developing communication skills and a team-oriented mindset that have been essential in my recent internships. Working in a project-based format is also beneficial to my hands-on learning style in that I retain information better, therefore making my learning more in-depth. The format here is also realistic because it has prepared me to work in fast-paced environments where it is vital to quickly manage and work with new and changing information.