Justin Parry
Hometown
Braselton, GA
High School
Jackson County High School
Degree
B.S. Electrical Engineering
Certificate in Aerospace Engineering
Expected Graduation
December 2027
What is your favorite thing about being a student at UGA?
My favorite thing about being a student at UGA is the community. Being surrounded by such driven, passionate, and supportive students constantly inspires me to push myself and grow. It’s truly a special experience to be part of such a motivated and encouraging environment.
Why did you choose engineering?
I chose engineering because I’ve always wanted to make a difference by creating things that improve people’s lives. I’ve been fascinated by how things move — from cars to spacecraft — and inspired by the innovation happening in the automotive and aerospace industries. Engineering allows me to combine that curiosity with my drive to contribute to meaningful progress, working toward building a smarter future that pushes boundaries.
Why is it important for the university to have a diverse community?
It’s important for the university to have a diverse community because perspective is the key to growth. When people from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences come together, they challenge each other to think in new ways and see problems from angles they might not have considered before.
What has been the greatest challenge you have faced while at UGA, and how did you overcome it?
One of the greatest challenges I’ve faced at UGA has been balancing demanding coursework with my responsibilities as a team lead in the Small Satellite Research Lab (SSRL). Managing both required a lot of long nights and careful time management, especially as our projects grew in complexity. What helped me overcome this challenge was leaning on the experience of other lab members — they offered invaluable advice and perspective on how to prioritize, delegate, and find a better balance. Through that process, I learned how to manage my time more effectively, lead with greater confidence, and that asking questions and seeking guidance is one of the most important parts of growth as both a student and an engineer.
What have you learned that has made a difference for you?
I’ve learned that working with others makes everything more meaningful and enjoyable. Being surrounded by like-minded, motivated people creates an environment that keeps you driven to reach the next step. Collaborating with supportive peers not only helps you grow but also keeps you in a better place mentally — and ultimately, much happier.
Who has helped you become a successful student at UGA?
It would be impossible to pick just one person. The members of the Small Satellite Research Lab (SSRL) have been absolutely essential to my growth at UGA — they’ve stood beside me through long nights, tough deadlines, and exciting breakthroughs. Their passion and support have taught me invaluable lessons about teamwork, patience, and perseverance. I also owe a huge thank you to my girlfriend, whose encouragement and belief in me have kept me motivated and balanced. I truly wouldn’t be the student or leader I am today without all of them.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
My favorite spot on campus is definitely the Lake Herrick and Intramural Fields area. After long days in the lab or classes, it’s the perfect place to unwind and take a breath. The view is beautiful, and there’s something about being near the water that’s incredibly calming. Honorable mention to any Jittery Joe’s on campus — a good cup of coffee has gotten me through more late nights than I can count!
What has been your favorite class at UGA?
My favorite class at UGA has been Electromagnetics. It’s one of the hardest courses I’ve taken, but also one of the most fascinating. It pushed me to think differently about how the world works and gave me a deeper appreciation for the complexity of engineering.
What has been your best memory at UGA?
My favorite memories at UGA are the random, unplanned things — when someone gets an idea, you text your friends to see if they’re in, and before you know it, you’re off doing something completely unexpected. Those spontaneous moments always end up being the best ones.
What advice do you have for younger students who wish to pursue engineering?
My biggest piece of advice is to ask questions — and not just to your professors. Talk to your classmates, lab members, and mentors too. You’re here to learn, and some of the most valuable lessons come from the people around you. Don’t be afraid to admit when you don’t know something.
How do you hope to impact society with your engineering degree?
I hope to use my engineering degree to help design and build things that go really fast — whether that’s planes, rockets, or race cars. I’ve always been fascinated by the engineering that pushes speed and performance to their limits, and one day I’d love to work on cutting-edge projects in aerospace or motorsports.
