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Why did you choose Aeronautics and Astronautics?
I chose AAE as I loved to build and launch model rockets when I was in elementary school and at the age of 11 started taking flight lessons. Combining these with my love of understanding how things work made the choice easy.

Best event or organization you’ve participated in within AAE?
Through Purdue Electric Racing, I have grown my technical experience from my very first week of classes at Purdue. On the Aerodynamics subteam, we design and manufacture all-new wings and bodywork for our formula-style car every year.

Best event or organization you’ve participated in outside of AAE?
Boiler Bakers has been my favourite organisation outside of AAE. It was the perfect club for me to join as I have loved cooking and baking since I was 10. Joining the exec board not only allowed me to strengthen my leadership skills, but allowed me to meet amazing people outside of my major that also love to bake.

Why did you want to be an AAE Ambassador?
I realised through helping others in my clubs and friends who were incoming Purdue students that I enjoy sharing my experience at Purdue and my time in AAE. I found that in my freshman year I had a lot of questions about where to go and what to do at Purdue; now, as an Ambassador, I hope to help others navigate those same challenges.

Favorite place on campus?
To study, I enjoy the WALC quiet room; otherwise, I enjoy going to the Horticulture Park.

Favorite class you’ve taken thus far and why?
Bowling has been my favourite class thus far. I enjoy that it gives me a nice one-hour break in between two challenging Aero classes and a Nuclear Engineering class. I also like that it is a fun way to meet new people.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a potential AAE student?
Aero offers far more diverse career paths than most people realise. My own internships have taken me from West Lafayette to the south of France, working in everything from manufacturing engineering to an IndyCar racing team.

Who is someone you look up to in the Aero/Astro industry and why?
Scott Kelly's story has enamoured me since I first learned of his journey. Following his 340-day mission, he set the record for the longest cumulative time in space for an American astronaut. Throughout that expedition, he and his twin brother also deepened our understanding of the changes to the human body in space through the 'Twins Study' conducted with them. I think it is incredible how much he was able to accomplish, and how he now shares that experience with others.

What motivates you to succeed?
My biggest motivator is my mum. Seeing the long hours she put into her career and earning an MBA, all while raising three kids on her own, has made me want to work that much harder to make her sacrifices worth it.

What is your ultimate career goal?
I would say having a career where I feel I am creating a beneficial output, while being able to financially support my hobbies and my family.

What do you like to do when you’re not studying/in the lab or classroom?
Most of the time I am with my friends, often at PSUB trivia, watching a movie, cooking together, or going outside and exploring.

Favorite Fun Fact about Purdue?
The amazing guest speaker program that we have. When I was in 7th grade I was lucky enough to see Captain Sullenberger talk at Elliot Hall for Purdue's 150th anniversary about his landing in the Hudson.