Hometown: Lake Zurich, Illinois

Current year: Senior

Merrick serves as fundraising coordinator for the Indiana Society of Professional Land Surveyors.

Why I chose Civil Engineering

I have always really enjoyed physics — I just love it. So, I knew I wanted to pursue a career that was tied strongly to physics, science, and math. I also wanted to do something that would benefit others. The idea of creating a space where people can live and enjoy also really appealed to me. After taking some civil engineering courses and seeing how it could bring all my passions and interests together, I knew this was the path for me.

Emphasis area

My emphasis area is in structural engineering. I’m really big on influencing the human experience and it was through structural engineering that I saw my greatest opportunity to make an impact. It allows me to help people out by creating and preserving structures — while also getting math and physics involved.

I also just love the idea of creating a space where people can exist in and the more involved I got with the structures department, the more confident I was that I made the right decision. Not only are the classes challenging and interesting, but the faculty and the other students are wonderful to work with and make me excited to come to class.

Merrick has been interning with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. since May 2018.

Preserving history

The dream for me would be to pursue a career in rehabilitating and repurposing historical structures. I really care about sustainability and so the idea of giving an older building a whole new life is really appealing to me. We have a lot of old and aging structures in the U.S. and I want to help give them a second life.  Also, it’s just a great way to give back to the community by restoring existing structures.

After I graduate

After I graduate in May, I plan to pursue my Master’s degree in civil engineering. I’m going to do a thesis-based Master’s which would mean lots of research — which I am really excited about. After that, I plan to enter the structural engineering industry and pursue my career.

Merrick Howarth and friends at the annual Lyles School of Civil Engineering Scholarship Banquet.