March 11, 2020

Kelsey Vought — seeking environmental innovation

For as long as she can remember, Kelsey Vought said she has had a strong interest in studying and researching urban areas and the impacts they have on the environment. And, through Purdue Civil Engineering, she has been able to greatly expand her understanding of the topic and the challenges facing her future pursuits.

Hometown: Wheaton, Illinois

Current year: Senior

Kelseys emphasis area is in environmental engineering and says she has had an interest in conservation for as long as she can remember.
Kelsey's emphasis area is in environmental engineering and says she has had an interest in conservation for as long as she can remember.

Why I chose Purdue Civil Engineering

I was unsure where exactly I wanted attend college until I visited Purdue University. At first, I thought a smaller college would be a better fit for me, but I quickly realized that the West Lafayette campus has a nice, supportive community. I was able to feel at home here while having the resources of a large campus. I also knew I wanted to pursue a degree that would allow me work toward improving the environment and address urban sprawl — and the Lyles School of Civil Engineering fit those needs perfectly.

Emphasis area

My emphasis area is in environmental engineering. For as long as I can remember, I have had a strong interest in studying and researching urban areas and the impacts they have on the environment. Through Purdue Civil Engineering, I have been able expand my understanding of the topic through course work and research. The faculty also have guided me and broadened my understanding of what we face in the future.

Kelsey plans to earn her graduate degree where she will focus her research on hydroponic farming.
Kelsey plans to earn her graduate degree where she will focus her research on hydroponic farming.

Hydroponic farms

One of my biggest interests is in hydroponic farming — that's farming without the use of soil and instead using nutrient-rich water. I believe it is through hydroponic farms and similar endeavors that we will be able to maintain sustainable and circular urban agriculture systems.

After I graduate

After I graduate in May, I plan on attending graduate school for either a master's degree and or a direct PhD. Because of how specialized my interests are in water-food-energy systems, I will need to pursue a graduate degree to ensure I have the knowledge and expertise to better research and lead in the field.

Kelsey said she considered several options when choosing where to go to college. But, upon visiting Purdue University, she knew it was the perfect place for her to pursue her dreams.
Kelsey said she considered several options when choosing where to go to college. But, upon visiting Purdue University, she knew it was the perfect place for her to pursue her dreams.