Ishaan Agrawal

Kyra Li

Hometown: Danville, CA
Major: Aerodynamics


Why did you choose Aeronautics and Astronautics?
I chose Aeronautics and Astronautics because I have always been interested in the possibilities of aerospace engineering and the opportunities it offers. As I explored different career paths, I realized that almost everything I was interested in pursuing was related to aerospace. I wanted to study something that genuinely excited me and would challenge me to continuously learn and grow. Aerospace engineering combines my interests in problem-solving, innovation, and technology while giving me the opportunity to work on projects that can make a meaningful impact. Ultimately, I chose Aeronautics and Astronautics because it aligns with my interests and career goals and I can see myself building a fulfilling career in the field.

Best event or organization you’ve participated in within AAE?
I really enjoyed attending the AAE specific career fair as it helped me find my spring-summer co-op and I made amazing connections there. It really opened up opportunities for me and taught me a lot even though I was nervous.

Best event or organization you’ve participated in outside of AAE?
Purdue Engineering Student Council has been one of the best organizations I have been involved in. I really enjoy planning and running events for students, as well as helping with career fairs and creating opportunities for students to connect with companies and professionals. Beyond the experiences themselves, I have also met so many amazing people through this organization who are incredibly talented, driven, and passionate about what they do. Being part of PESC has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally while connecting with a community of people who inspire me.

Why did you want to be an AAE Ambassador?
I am interested in being an AAE Ambassador because I genuinely enjoy outreach, building community, and contributing to campus culture. I love speaking with prospective students and their families, answering their questions, and representing a school and engineering community that I am proud to be a part of. As an AAE Ambassador, I really hope to connect with more students and inspire those who are considering Aerospace Engineering as a major. I would love the opportunity to share my experiences and stories, provide guidance to students, and serve as a welcoming point of contact for anyone interested in AAE. Most importantly, I hope to help create an inclusive and supportive community where students feel encouraged to explore their interests and the aerospace engineering field even without previous experience.

Favorite place on campus?
PMU

Favorite class you’ve taken thus far and why?
I really enjoyed Aeromechanics 1 (AAE 203) because I found the material very interesting, even though the course was challenging. The professor taught the material clearly and was always willing to answer students' questions, which helped me better understand difficult concepts. More importantly, the course taught me to challenge myself and not be afraid of difficult classes. It showed me that I am capable of learning challenging material and succeeding as long as I put in the effort.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a potential AAE student?
One piece of advice I would give is to take opportunities even when they feel intimidating. You will not always feel completely prepared or confident, but some of the best experiences and opportunities come from pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone. It is okay to be scared or unsure, but what matters is being willing to try.

Who is someone you look up to in the Aero/Astro industry and why?
Rather than looking up to one specific person in the Aero/Astro industry, I look up to many of my friends and the people I have met at Purdue. I have met so many incredibly talented, driven, and passionate people who inspire me through the paths they have chosen and the opportunities they pursue. Seeing their dedication and how excited they are about what they do motivates me to keep challenging myself and exploring my own path in aerospace. I think being surrounded by people who inspire you is incredibly valuable, and I am grateful to have found that community at Purdue.

What motivates you to succeed?
What motivates me is the opportunity to build a better future for the people around me while doing work that I genuinely find meaningful. I am also motivated by the people I care about. I want to build a future that gives the people around me more opportunities, more possibilities, and a better world to live in.

What is your ultimate career goal?
I have always wanted my career to be more than just a way to make a living. I want to wake up excited about what I am working on and know that the time, effort, and challenges I put into my work are contributing to something larger than myself. To me, a fulfilling career is one where I can continuously learn, work alongside people I respect, solve difficult problems, and ultimately create something that can make a difference. Most importantly, I want to build a meaningful career that challenges me, allows me to grow, and gives me a sense of purpose in the work I do. Right now, I hope to eventually work in California at a space startup, where I can contribute to innovative projects while continuing to learn and grow as an engineer.

What do you like to do when you’re not studying/in the lab or classroom?
I really enjoy picking up new hobbies and spending time with others outside of the classroom. I like reading, hiking, trying any sport (especially water or snow sports), trying new cafes, and making things with my hands. I love being involved in my community, meeting new people, and finding ways to connect with and contribute to the people around me.

Favorite Fun Fact about Purdue?
Purdue is known as the Cradle of Astronauts because 30 alumni have been selected to become astronauts.