Emily Hess

Hometown
Chester, NJ

High School
West Morris Mendham High School

Degree
B.S. Biological Engineering

Expected Graduation
May 2026

What is your favorite thing about being a student at UGA?

My favorite part of being a student at UGA is the community I’ve built here. From the beginning, I wanted to attend a school where I could form genuine relationships with professors and classmates while also getting involved in clubs and organizations that mattered to me. UGA has given me exactly that. There’s something special about walking around Athens and seeing familiar faces that make campus feel like home.

Why did you choose engineering?

I chose engineering because I was drawn to a career that would allow me to make a difference while pushing me outside of my comfort zone. Engineering is challenging, but that challenge is what makes it so rewarding. It continually stretches me to think critically, grow intellectually, and see the bigger picture beyond myself.

Why is it important for the university to have an inclusive community?

It is important for the university to have a diverse community because it creates opportunities to connect with people from different backgrounds and experiences. Without diversity, our perspectives would remain limited. Engaging with different viewpoints helps us better understand the world around us.

What has been the greatest challenge you have faced while at UGA, and how did you overcome it?

The greatest challenge for me at UGA has been balancing my coursework, involvement in student organizations, and social commitments. Over time, I learned to embrace being busy and became more intentional with how I manage my time. Creating and sticking to a schedule has allowed me to stay involved, remain present, and prioritize the things that matter most to me.

What have you learned that has made a difference for you?

Live in the moment! There is truly no place quite like UGA and Athens. While it’s easy to get caught up in coursework, there are so many opportunities to try new things, and it’s important to take advantage of them. Go to the football games, explore new coffee shops, and discover what makes Athens feel like home to you!

Who has helped you become a successful student at UGA?

My freshman year hallmates have remained my support group throughout my time at UGA. They have constantly pushed me to become the best and most successful version of myself, and I am so grateful that I met them from day one. Their encouragement and friendship have played a huge role in helping me grow both academically and personally.

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

My favorite spot on campus is Founder’s Garden. In the spring, when everything is in bloom, it becomes one of the most beautiful places on campus. During busy weeks or whenever I need time to clear my head, it’s the perfect place to slow down and think.

What has been your favorite class at UGA?

My favorite class at UGA has been Biomechanics with Dr. Handa. In this course, I had the opportunity to research topics that genuinely interested me, such as 3D-printed biomaterials for implants, and present my findings. We also learned about the ongoing work in Dr. Handa’s Biomaterials Lab, which helped connect the concepts from lecture to real-world applications.

What has been your best memory at UGA?

My favorite memory at UGA was my sorority’s spring formal at the Georgia Theatre last year. From getting ready with my roommates to taking pictures on North Campus and enjoying live music at the event, the whole day was unforgettable. Spending that night with my best friends before many of them graduated is a memory I will never forget.

What advice do you have for younger students who wish to pursue engineering?

Get involved! Engineering is challenging, and it becomes even more difficult without a strong support system. Joining a club or organization, or even making an effort to connect with someone in each class, can make the journey much more manageable and rewarding. In my experience, joining the Society of Women Engineers not only helped me build meaningful connections but also opened doors to opportunities such as attending national conferences and taking on leadership roles.

How do you hope to impact society with your engineering degree?

I hope to innovate in the medical device industry. Through my time as a co-op at Johnson & Johnson, I gained valuable experience in manufacturing and saw firsthand how much effort goes into creating products that help save lives every day. That experience strengthened my passion for this field, and I hope to continue working on projects that keep people happier and healthier.