Hometown: Henderson, Nev.
Materials Science and Engineering major (class of 2023)
What got you interested in engineering?
I initially chose engineering because it seemed to be a perfect blend of creativity and analytical thinking involving math. This is still one of the reasons that I love it, but I have found that I enjoy the teamwork and project-focused aspects as well.
What impact do you hope to have through your engineering career?
The specific impact I want to have will depend on what career path I choose, but in general, I just want to be useful. I want to work on projects that improve lives, not only through the end result, but also by working on a project in a way that respects both my colleagues and the consumer.
What does the CREATE program mean to you?
When I entered college, the CREATE program was a built-in group of people who helped me transition from home to college life. I am friends with many of the other CREATE scholars, even living with one as a roommate, because we got to know each other so well. Now, the various faculty members and students help push me forward when I am lacking motivation by encouraging growth and showing me opportunities that I could not have found alone.
In what ways has your peer mentor helped you?
My peer mentor has been helpful to me as someone who I can share my ideas and concerns for the future with. I find it very useful to be able to talk my ideas out with someone; some things seem to make more sense aloud. My peer mentor listens, which alone is helpful, but also offers advice that I didn’t know that I needed to hear.
What advice would you give someone looking to follow in your footsteps?
I would tell them to build their communication skills because some of the most important things that you will learn come from someone else. People want to help you, but you have to tell them that you need help.
