High School
R.L. Osborne High School
Degree
B.S. Civil Engineering
Expected Graduation
2027
What is your favorite thing about being a student at UGA?
One of my favorite parts of being here at UGA are the endless amount of opportunities to meet new people and branch out! I’m naturally a bit of a social butterfly, so I love being able to connect with others through student organizations, and other campus events. More so, I’ve loved connecting with my engineering community with those who share my passion for engineering both personally and professionally.
Why did you choose engineering?
I’d always known I wanted to go into a STEM field since I was young. I was in the sixth grade when I first learned of the engineering design process. In class, we had been given the assignment to use these steps to construct a container that could hold a gallon water tank. Our instructions were primarily to hypothesize, research materials, & formulate an attainable and environmentally friendly design. Since then, I’ve developed a curiosity about how our everyday systems work and how the engineering process can be applied to the real world. I wanted to be equipped with the tools necessary to serve my community and positively contribute to a more sustainable environment to enact change and give back to a community that has served me well.
Why is it important for the university to have an inclusive community?
Diversity is essential for the STEM community to continue to thrive and innovate in meaningful ways! I’ve seen that when people come from different socioeconomic backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives, their different points-of-views offer different approaches to problem solving, and can help shed unique light on various problems. In an industry (and world) that continues to grow in scope, we need creative and out-of-the-box solutions, and I’m a firm believer that everyone has something to bring to the table. I also believe diversity helps broaden the understanding of the communities that we as engineers ultimately end up serving. At a school like UGA, different perspectives help create an environment where we aren’t just learning from our classes, but from experiences that help us think more critically and develop empathy for the communities we will work with after we graduate. In a field like civil engineering, our work has a direct impact on people’s daily lives and it is important we are able to represent and meet the needs of others. Also, a diverse community more so helps students feel seen and valued, and can encourage others to pursue something.
What has been the greatest challenge you have faced while at UGA, and how did you overcome it?
One of the greatest challenges that I’ve faced during my time here at UGA is imposter syndrome, something I’m sure is not entirely uncommon. It’s a quiet but persistent voice that’s made me question whether I truly belong in the room, even when hard work and accomplishments say otherwise. As an engineering student, there have been moments when I’ve looked around my classrooms and felt like I had to work twice as hard just to prove that I deserved to be there. But I’ve come to rely on my community, within NSBE, our OSSA office, my mentors, and my close friends, who remind me that I am not alone in these feelings and that I am more than capable. They’ve taught me that your mindset is half of the battle, and that you can grow. from recognizing that you not only have the ability to excel, but that you truly deserve every opportunity you’ve earned. Belonging isn’t just making yourself fit in a space, but showing up for yourself fully, and claiming it.
What have you learned that has made a difference for you?
Do not be afraid to not know something! For a long time, I felt like I needed to have all the answers, especially in a rigorous spacelike engineering. But growth doesn’t start until you can for real admit you don’t understand something (YET). Learning to ask questions has made a huge difference for me. It shifts your mindset from trying to appear competent to actually becoming competent. Not knowing something isn’t a weakness instead it’s an opportunity to learn! (wow).
Who has helped you become a successful student at UGA?
I’m not sure I can even attribute my success to a singular person. I’ve had a multitude of truly supportive professors within ECAM, who have not only fostered my learning, but have given me professional advice and insights.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
In terms of studying: Inside of Driftmier, I love studying in the hallways or in a fishbowl (it’s easy to find friends there!) Outside of Driftmier (I promise I don’t only spend all of my time here), I love the SLC and the outdoor benches. Sitting outside in the sun and doing work before class is one of my favorite things to do. I had a friend who had taught me to take a second and just take in the fresh air, and studying outside has always become a must once it gets warm. Honestly, anywhere where I can people-watch is my favorite place.
What has been your favorite class at UGA?
I would have to say my MATH 2250 & 2260 (Calc 1 & 2) class., both of which were taught by the same professor. We’d all developed such a bond over the course of the class, so much so that office hours became less of a task and something that we all looked forward to too. The professor was such a character, but really challenged me to be better. One of his signature teaching methods was having us come up to the board to work through problems, even when we only had a question. It was majorly intimidating at first, but in the long run, it ultimately helped build my confidence academically and strengthened my understanding of Calculus (it follows us engineers everywhere). The class showed me the value of engaging in my learning process and the value of building relationships with both the professor and my classmates.
What has been your best memory at UGA?
My best memory has to be (so corny) my first NSBE meeting(s), both as a first-year and as someone that now serves on the E-Board. They’ve both been major milestones to my growth as a student and myself personally. As a first-year, my first NSBE meeting was the first time I truly felt like I had found my place within the COE. It gave me a sense of community and belonging that helped me feel more secure as I navigated the beginning college for the first time. Now, getting to experience that same meeting from the perspective of an E-Board member is such a full circle moment. Getting to be a part of creating that same welcoming environment for other students and watching them find their own sense of belonging and community is something so meaningful to me.
What advice do you have for younger students who wish to pursue engineering?
My biggest piece of my advice would be to make connections, find your community, and find people who inspire and challenge you to be the best version of yourself you can be. Engineering is hard, it’ s difficult, and often will require a lot of hard work, time, and dedication, but it is much easier when you’re not doing it alone. I’ve found this in study groups, peers, and student organizations, they can make all the difference. Also, not being afraid to ask questions and going to office hours! Truthfully, engineering isn’t just about mastering the difficult concepts, but the perseverance you have in doing so. Keep showing up for yourself, and build a strong support system. You’ll realize you’re capable of more than you think.
How do you hope to impact society with your engineering degree?
With pursuing civil engineering here at UGA, I plan on applying the same curiosity I had as a kid to learning about designing infrastructures in an urban setting. One majorly being minimizing our environmental impacts and learning how to mitigate the effects of urbanization on our quality of life. Growing up within a community of diverse, underserved individuals, I’ve seen firsthand how necessary it is to create an efficient urban framework to maintain the cleaner and more sustainable environment I believe everyone deserves.
