Aaryan Lath
Hometown: Mumbai, India
Major: Aerodynamics
Why did you choose Aeronautics and Astronautics?
Intrigued from the very first time I watched SpaceX launch and land the Falcon 9 first stage, I knew that my heart was very close to this field.
Best event or organization you’ve participated in within AAE?
Purdue Space Day! The "shear" joy of watching the younglings be excited about Science and Technology reminds me of my childhood and makes me forget my "stress".
Best event or organization you’ve participated in outside of AAE?
Celebrating Holi. The energy was on a different dimension altogether with the dancing, the food and drenching others in color, reminding me of home.
Why did you want to be an AAE Ambassador?
To be able to share my passion and help other students/ prospective students is one of the main reasons.
Favorite place on campus?
Co-Rec, full of activities and get to meet and play with different people.
Favorite class you’ve taken thus far and why?
AAE 251 (Introduction to Aerospace Design) was one of the first classes where I truly went out of my comfort zone to design a mission just like actual engineers do. This class was very informative and helped me develop academically and personally.
What is one piece of advice you would give to a potential AAE student?
AAE might seem daunting but it can be made less daunting by attending TA, professor office hours, making friends within the program since they are also in the same boat. Most importantly, enjoying oneself and giving time to you
Who is someone you look up to in the Aero/Astro industry and why?
Dr A.P.J Abdul Kalam also known as the "Missile Man" of India. His story as shown in his autobiography is truly inspiring about how he persevered in ISRO and later spearheaded to make a one of a one-of-a-kind missile defense program
What motivates you to succeed?
Leaving a legacy behind myself and my personal aspirations for making a dent in this world.
What is your ultimate career goal?
Expand the human civilization to other planets and becoming wealthy to have my dream garage and get into philanthropy by focusing on problems which plagued me.
What do you like to do when you’re not studying/in the lab or classroom?
Try to work on improving myself by developing different skills, imposing new challenges on myself, try out different activities and hanging out with friends.