CCE Undergrad Spotlight — Kalaya Sriver

Growing up in Chicago, Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering junior Kalaya Sriver said she developed an interest and appreciation for mass and public transit at an early age. A dream of hers is to eventually work on a transportation project that everyone can benefit from.

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

Current year: Junior

Kalaya's emphasis area is in transportation engineering where she aims to work on a mass transit project as a civil engineer.
Kalaya's emphasis area is in transportation engineering where she aims to work on a mass transit project as a civil engineer.

Why I chose Purdue Civil and Construction Engineering

I have always had an interest in engineering — especially civil engineering. My dad is a civil engineer, too, so he would always tell me and teach me things about roads and buildings, and I always found it very interesting. Also, my dad, aunt, uncle, and grandma all studied at Purdue University, and I loved the campus whenever I came for a visit, so I was confident that this was the right place for me very early on.

Emphasis area

My emphasis area is in transportation engineering. Growing up in Chicago without a car, I grew to really appreciate the importance of mass and public transportation. A dream of mine is to eventually work on a transportation project that people can really benefit from.

Kalaya is involved in a number of organizations at Purdue, including the Purdue Institute of Transportation Engineers.
Kalaya is involved in a number of organizations at Purdue, including the Purdue Institute of Transportation Engineers.

Engineering and education opportunities

I am involved in several organizations — both on campus and in Chicago. I am with the Purdue Institute of Transportation Engineers, am a Purdue Professional Practice ambassador, and a mentor in Chicago’s Architecture, Construction, and Engineering program. I have also had the opportunity to study abroad in Spain and Australia thanks to course offerings at Purdue.

After I graduate

After I earn my Bachelor's degree, I plan to earn my Master's. I am still unsure if I will choose civil engineering or another focus, but I definitely want to pursue something that will help me be stronger civil engineer.

Kalaya's emphasis area is in transportation engineering where she aims to work on a mass transit project as a civil engineer.
Kalaya's emphasis area is in transportation engineering where she aims to work on a mass transit project as a civil engineer.