Michael Liscano

Hometown
Columbus, Georgia

High School
Columbus Highschool

Degree
BS Mechanical Engineering

Expected Graduation
Spring 2028

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

I love the people here. Many of the teachers are really great and want their students to understand and learn the material. They are very caring and understanding when it comes to workload and stress and are very helpful. A lot of the students here come in with different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives which have helped me broaden my worldview and have helped me in other ways. In addition, the collaboration and sometimes competition with my peers have helped me grow and improve academically.

Why did you choose engineering?

I choose engineering for a variety of reasons. The first is that I love the problem-solving aspect, and as future engineers we will have to come up with solutions to improve people’s lives and I want to do that for a living. The second reason is that I love the idea of being challenged intellectually. As engineers, technological advancements are happening all the time and I know I will enjoy keeping up with those advancements and using them to solve problems. The final reason is that there are so many opportunities in different industries such as in healthcare, transportation, and structural.

Why is it important for the university to have a diverse community?

Having a diverse community is important to a university for several reasons. The first is that it broadens the perspectives of others and allows them to see the world through different viewpoints. The second is that it prepares people for the workforce. As engineers, we will have to work with a diverse group of people to solve problems. The third is that it enhances learning since a diverse community will bring different perspectives, life experiences, and ideas.

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

Managing my time has been a huge challenge for me. I overcame it by just learning how to manage it. I learned how to set time aside for school work and for my personal hobbies.

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

I have learned the importance of managing a balance between work, relationships, and self care which has lead me having less stress.

Who has helped you become a successful student at UGA?

A lot of people have helped me to become successful. My ROTC cadre, professors, fellow classmates, and friends have all helped and I would not be where I am without them.

What is your favorite spot on campus and why?

Ramsey Student Center is my favorite spot. I like to work out there and have met many of my friends there.

What has been your favorite class at UGA?

Physics 1251 has been my favorite class so far as I have a great professor and love learning about physics.

What has been your best memory at UGA?

Playing pool late at night at Tate with some friends and then going to get food downtown.

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

Learn how to study and manage your time. It took me a while to learn how to do both and it is very important.

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

I want to help create more efficient and safer vehicles and I want to make transportation more accessible and efficient.

Michael stands with his father, MAJ Liscano, at his contracting with UGA Army ROTC.