Katherine Law
Recipient of the Stephen Harrison Ginn Memorial Scholarship in Engineering
Katherine Law knew that UGA was the place for her the minute she set foot on UGA’s campus. As a biological engineering major and a student-athlete, Katherine has used her time at UGA to develop stellar time management and organizational skills, and she knows what it will take to accomplish her long-range goal of becoming an attorney in the healthcare field. Katherine credits her parents for her work ethic and her appreciation for the value of education, and she says that her scholarship support while at UGA has been a key to her success.
How did you choose UGA for your undergrad?
“UGA felt like home to me the moment I stepped on campus. It offered the perfect balance of academic excellence, athletic opportunity, and vibrant social and spiritual communities. I was especially inspired by the strong alumni network and how deeply they support the university’s continued growth and success. There are countless opportunities to get involved and make an impact here, which made UGA the ideal place for me.”
How did you choose engineering as your major?
“I have always loved solving problems, and engineering gives me the tools to do just that while combining my passion for math and science. I am especially drawn to healthcare, so biological engineering was the perfect fit. It allows me to apply technical skills to help improve people’s lives. The idea of using innovation to make a tangible difference in the world is what motivates me most. Engineering challenges me intellectually and aligns with my desire to serve others.”
What do you feel are the most challenging aspects of being an engineering student? What do you enjoy most about it?
“Engineering is a demanding field that requires a high level of commitment and resilience. The coursework is rigorous, and students spend significant time outside of class studying and mastering complex material. Time management, self-discipline and resisting the urge to compare yourself to students in other majors are essential skills. Every problem in engineering is unique, so learning how to approach each challenge creatively is just as important as understanding the technical content. I genuinely enjoy the challenge and the sense of purpose that comes with engineering. Knowing that I can help improve someone’s life by designing a solution or solving a problem is incredibly fulfilling. At UGA, I especially appreciate the close-knit feel of the College of Engineering. I have been able to build meaningful relationships with my professors and peers. The collaborative and supportive environment makes learning even more rewarding.”
Who or what has been an inspiration to you in your educational journey?
“My parents have always emphasized the value of education and have been a constant source of encouragement. My dad, an electrical engineer, introduced me to the field and sparked my interest early on. My younger brother is now following a similar path studying civil engineering at UGA, which has been inspiring to watch. My parents’ support and example have played a huge role in shaping my academic journey.”
How has being a student-athlete at UGA impacted you? How has it challenged you?
“Being a student-athlete has given me a unique perspective and taught me how to prioritize and balance competing demands. Managing Division 1 athletics alongside an honors engineering curriculum has challenged me to develop strong time management and organizational skills. It can feel isolating at times, especially since few student-athletes pursue engineering, but the support from UGA’s engineering faculty has made a tremendous difference. Their encouragement has helped me thrive in both academics and athletics.”
How has being the recipient of scholarship support impacted you and your educational journey? How has it affected your view of philanthropy?
“Receiving scholarship support has been instrumental in helping me pursue my academic and career goals. As I transition from athletics and begin my MBA while finishing my engineering degree, this support allows me to focus on my education and future aspirations, including law school. It has deepened my appreciation for philanthropy and its power to open doors for students. Philanthropy fuels innovation, challenges ideas, and empowers students to make meaningful contributions to the world.”
What do you hope to accomplish while at UGA? What are your plans when you graduate?
“While at UGA, I hope to make a lasting impact by excelling in both academics and athletics and by inspiring others to pursue their goals with dedication. I want to gain a deeper understanding of the tools and knowledge that will allow me to make a difference in people’s lives. After completing my undergraduate degree, I will continue at UGA to earn my MBA. My long-term goal is to attend law school and pursue a leadership career in medical technology, pharmaceuticals, or healthcare policy.”
If you could say one thing to UGA engineering donors, what would it be?
“Thank you…your generosity is truly changing lives! Your support empowers students to pursue their passions and reach their full potential. Even a small donation can have a profound impact on someone’s educational journey. I encourage you to continue investing in the future of engineering and the students who will shape it.”
