Ishaan Agrawal

Olivia Avalos Villar

Hometown: Basel, Switzerland
Major: N/A


Why did you choose Aeronautics and Astronautics?
Aerospace is constantly pushing the limits of what is possible, whether that means flying farther, faster, higher, or more sustainably. I am especially interested in propulsion and sustainable aviation because I love the challenge of improving technologies that already seem incredibly advanced and finding ways to make the future of flight more efficient.

Best event or organization you’ve participated in within AAE?
AAESAC! Being part of the council has given me the chance to help shape the community within AAE rather than just be a part of it. I have loved getting to know students across different years, working with faculty, and helping create events that bring people in the department together.

Best event or organization you’ve participated in outside of AAE?
Purdue Grand Prix Foundation! Grand Prix is such a unique Purdue tradition, and I love being part of something that brings together engineering, competition, and school spirit.

Why did you want to be an AAE Ambassador?
I have been to many different schools and lived in different places, so I know how intimidating it can feel to walk into a completely new environment. The students who took the time to show me around and make me feel welcome always made a huge difference. I wanted to become an AAE Ambassador so I can be that person for students who are starting a new stage of their lives.

Favorite place on campus?
Lambertus Hall, I love all the huge windows and natural light, especially when I need somewhere to study that does not feel like I have been locked in a basement for five hours.

Favorite class you’ve taken thus far and why?
ME 200: Thermodynamics. It was one of the first classes where I felt like I was learning concepts that directly explain how so many real engineering systems work.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a potential AAE student?
Try things even if you are not completely sure you will like them. Even if it does not become your thing, the skills, people, and experiences you gain from it will almost always be worth it.

Who is someone you look up to in the Aero/Astro industry and why?
Bertrand Piccard. Flying around the world in Solar Impulse using only solar power was an incredible demonstration of what can happen when aerospace innovation and sustainability are treated as the same challenge rather than competing priorities. I also admire the way he uses ambitious engineering projects to push people to rethink what they assume is possible.

What motivates you to succeed?
I am motivated by the idea of seeing how far I can push myself. I love taking on things that initially feel a little intimidating, learning as much as I can from them, and eventually realizing I can do more than I thought. Knowing there is always another challenge, skill, or opportunity to grow into keeps me moving forward.

What is your ultimate career goal?
I want to work on advanced propulsion systems and help develop technologies that push aerospace forward while making flight more sustainable. I want to work on something that makes people rethink what aircraft or spacecraft can do.

What do you like to do when you’re not studying/in the lab or classroom?
Usually something active or somewhere new. I love running, skiing, exploring new places, and randomly deciding to try a new sport or activity just to see if I like it. I am also always looking for an excuse to plan a trip.

Favorite Fun Fact about Purdue?
That the Boilermaker Special is actually street legal. I still find it funny that one of Purdue's biggest traditions can casually drive around campus.