Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

Current year: Senior

William is a member of the Purdue All-American Marching Band and is a saxophone section leader.

Why I chose Purdue Civil Engineering

My interest in civil engineering actually started pretty early on. In fourth grade, I had to complete a class project and chose to recreate structures out of popsicle sticks, including the Sears Tower and some different types of bridges. I did a lot of research and put a lot of effort into it because I was so interested in creating these models. My dad told me I should look into civil engineering after seeing me work and so I looked it up and I was really interested in how wide-reaching it was. Two people can be civil engineers but be working on completely different projects.

So, when I chose Purdue, I already had a pretty good idea that I, at least, wanted to take some civil engineering classes. And, after meeting the professors and other students, I knew this is what I wanted to pursue.

Emphasis area

My emphasis area is in Structures. One of my career goals is to work abroad and in developing countries and improve the infrastructure. With so many advances in technology — like smart cities and connected vehicles — it’d be incredible to help design for emerging communities.

William is a member of the Purdue All-American Marching Band and is a saxophone section leader.

Saxophone section leader

Throughout my time here at Purdue, I’ve been a member of the All-American Marching Band. I am the band’s saxophone section leader and being part of this group has been an incredible honor for me. This past year has been a challenge due to COVID-19, so we couldn’t go out and perform very much, but it has been a great experience and I made a lot of friends.

After I graduate

After I graduate in August, I plan to take a bit of time off from my studies. For the next year, I will be in Chicago on a service opportunity with the Baháí Faith where I’ll be able to teach and counsel youth and children in the community. After that, I aim to earn my Master’s degree in civil engineering. I believe with what I plan to do with my career that more study and research will be necessary to properly prepare me.

William will graduate in the summer, then plans to commit himself to service work in Chicago for a year before he pursues his Master's degree.