Ishaan Agrawal

Benjamin Lewis

Hometown: West Chester, PA
Major: Propulsion


Why did you choose Aeronautics and Astronautics?
I chose Aeronautics and Astronautics because of my passion for math and physics as well as, let's be honest, how cool the subject matter is. I also love the challenge that AAE provides and it has helped me grow so much in the 2 years I have been in the college. 

Best event or organization you’ve participated in within AAE?
The best event I participated in AAE is being a member of the PURPL Torch Training Program. Learning how to design, size, and manufacture a torch ignitor was very interesting and a great supplement to my learning in the classroom. 

Best event or organization you’ve participated in outside of AAE?
The best organization I have participated in outside of AAE is being a member of Greek Life (Delta Sigma Phi). I have met some of my closest friends through it as well as gaining extremely valuable leadership and professional development. I can't imagine my college experience without it.

Why did you want to be an AAE Ambassador?
I wanted to be an AAE Ambassador to help give back to the community that has embraced me for the past 2 years. I have met so many great people in AAE and have had so many excellent experiences that I want to share with those considering AAE. The Ambassadors I spoke to on my Admitted Students tour was a big reason I came to Purdue, and I want to be that person for someone else. 

Favorite place on campus?
My favorite place on campus is the WALC basement TA only room. It is easily the best study spot on campus. I can't even fathom how many hours I've spent studying in there. 

Favorite class you’ve taken thus far and why?
My favorite class I have taken thus far is Fluid Mechanics (AAE 333). It was unlike any other class I have ever taken and it made me think completely different about how to approach and solve difficult problems. It was also extremely interesting subject matter (good ole Navier-Stokes).

What is one piece of advice you would give to a potential AAE student?
It's going to be hard; don't let it discourage you. Find a good support network (your parents, friends, siblings, etc.) and never be afraid to ask for help. 

Who is someone you look up to in the Aero/Astro industry and why?
Someone I look up to in the Aero/Astro industry is Laika (the stray dog that the USSR sent into space). Even though she is not a human, the bravery that she showed on the Sputnik flight is unparalleled, as she was one of the first living organisms to go into orbit. 

What motivates you to succeed?
My parents. They have sacrificed so much for me to get to where I am today, and they've inspired me to work as hard as I do. 

What is your ultimate career goal?
My ultimate career goal is to work in aerospace management. I love working with people and I love being a leader, so I believe management is the best career path for me. 

What do you like to do when you’re not studying/in the lab or classroom?
I love to exercise (weightlifting, running, soccer), watch sports (go Red Sox, Packers, and Sixers), and watch movies (Oppenheimer is the best movie ever). 

Favorite Fun Fact about Purdue?
Purdue has the most passing yards by college in the NFL and is tied for the most Superbowl winning quarterbacks with 3. We also have the cheapest Chipotle in the country.