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Why did you choose Aeronautics and Astronautics?
As a kid, outer space fascinated me, and I absolutely loved building with LEGOs. Although my interests were once so simple, those things ultimately drove me to pursue Aeronautics and Astronautics. Although I may never be an astronaut like little me once dreamed of, I can be a part of the team that pushes the boundaries of engineering and exploration.

Best event or organization you’ve participated in within AAE?
Running the stomp rocket class for 2nd and 3rd graders at Purdue Space Day. 

Best event or organization you’ve participated in outside of AAE?
Celebrating the 177th birthday of Virginia C. Meredith, the namesake of the building where I was an RA in my Junior year. 

Why did you want to be an AAE Ambassador?
As a current tour guide for the university and resident assistant, I love seeing students fall in love with the school I care so much about. Representing the School of Aeronautics and Astronautics is my way of supporting prospective students, faculty, and alumni by seeing how their passions for aerospace thrive within the Purdue community. 

Favorite place on campus?
Hicks Undergraduate Library

Favorite class you’ve taken thus far and why?
COM 314, Advanced Presentational Speaking. In this course, we presented on topics that we were passionate about in creative ways. I spoke on everything from Walt Disney animation to mnemonics as a study tool. My classmates shared their love of high-speed trains and pharmaceuticals in space. It honed my public speaking skills and expanded my knowledge of the world. 

What is one piece of advice you would give to a potential AAE student?
You likely wanted to enter this field because you enjoy dreaming big. When things feel difficult during the application process or as you are moving to college, don't let them deter you from those big dreams. None of it was intended to be easy, and that's what makes it all so fun. 

Who is someone you look up to in the Aero/Astro industry and why?
I look up to my previous technical lead at Boeing, Matt Walter. Whether it was at work or in his personal life, Matt always pushed the realm of engineering possibilities. When I felt lost throughout the summer, he reminded me that I was there for a reason and was fully capable of working through the problems thrown at me. Matt was the kind of engineer who would never settle for "good enough," and strove to make himself and those around him better every day. 

What motivates you to succeed?
The most prominent engineer in my life was my maternal grandfather. He bought me my very first graphing calculator in 9th grade, the same one I still use today. He believed that every day was an opportunity to learn something new. When I dig deep for motivation, I remember that this career path is the best opportunity to pursue my childhood dreams and make him proud. 

What is your ultimate career goal?
I feel the greatest joy when I am supporting others in achieving their highest potential. Additionally, a value from Boeing that I have started to live by is to "do cool things." The ultimate way for me to support as many people as I can is to be a program or division lead in an aerospace company that, simply put, "does cool things." 

What do you like to do when you’re not studying/in the lab or classroom?
I like to spend as much time as I can outside enjoying everything from the nice sun of summer to the pretty snow in winter. One of my favorite weekly activities is the farmer's market, and I look forward to spending time outdoors away from class and studying. 

Favorite Fun Fact about Purdue?
We have the largest indoor waterfall in the state of Indiana. (I know, so cool) It is in Hampton Hall of Civil Engineering; go through the door furthest on the left at the back of the building and take the stairs up a floor to see it.