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Why did you choose Aeronautics and Astronautics?
I've always been interested in engineering because of an early start in robotics, but as I got older, that grew into a deep fascination with intricate systems like rocket engines. Seeing how all those components work together to generate the massive thrust needed to push a spacecraft out of Earth's atmosphere completely hooked me, and I've always wanted to focus on propulsion ever since.

Best event or organization you’ve participated in within AAE?
Women In Aerospace Amelia Earhart Summit

Best event or organization you’ve participated in outside of AAE?
Attending the Region 3 AIAA conference with the Purdue Undergraduate Rocket Propulsion Lab

Why did you want to be an AAE Ambassador?
I wanted to become an AAE Ambassador because I remember how overwhelming it was trying to figure out what I wanted to study and what an engineering degree would actually look like. Once I got to Purdue, AAE became something I was genuinely excited about, especially through my classes, research, and involvement in student organizations. I want to be able to give prospective students that same perspective and help them see the opportunities within AAE beyond just what they read on a website. I also really enjoy talking to people and sharing my experiences, so I saw the ambassador role as a way to represent a program that I am genuinely proud to be part of.

Favorite place on campus?
Stewart Center Library is the best place to study for me.

Favorite class you’ve taken thus far and why?
AAE 337 - I have been waiting to get started on my propulsion related classes and learning the theory and equations I have used in my extracurriculars and internship is really a fulfilling feeling.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a potential AAE student?
Do not compare yourself to your peers. Everyone in Purdue AAE is super smart and Purdue AAE as a whole is a top program across the world. Continue on your own path without comparing to others putting your all into everything you do and you will be successful.

Who is someone you look up to in the Aero/Astro industry and why?
Someone I really look up to in the aerospace industry is Dr. Wanda Austin. She has had an incredible career in aerospace engineering and leadership, including serving as the president and CEO of The Aerospace Corporation. I admire how she has been able to succeed as both an engineer and a leader in an industry where women have historically been underrepresented. I also really value how she has used her position to support and mentor the next generation of engineers. Her career is a good reminder to me that being a strong engineer and being a strong leader can go hand in hand.

What motivates you to succeed?
What motivates me to succeed is knowing that learning never really stops. I'm naturally curious, and I'm always interested in understanding how something works, why it works, and how I can improve it. That curiosity pushes me to keep challenging myself and learning beyond what is required of me. I'm also motivated by representation. As a woman pursuing aerospace engineering, I know that there aren't always many people who look like me in the room expecially when it comes to leadership. I want to be the kind of representation that I wish I had, and hopefully show other women that they belong in this field and can succeed in it too.

What is your ultimate career goal?
My ultimate career goal is to become a propulsion engineer working on advanced propulsion systems, particularly in areas like combustion, high-speed systems, and next-generation propulsion. I want to work on problems that are both technically challenging and have a real impact on the future of aerospace. Long term, I also hope to take on leadership roles where I can contribute technically while helping mentor and support other engineers.

What do you like to do when you’re not studying/in the lab or classroom?
I love trying new food places and travelling to new places.

Favorite Fun Fact about Purdue?
My favorite fun fact about Purdue is that you can be walking around campus and, on some days, just look up and see fighter jets flying over campus. It's such a cool reminder that you're at an aerospace school, and it never really gets old.