Kerry-Ann Stirrup — Corrales, New Mexico
Materials Engineering, Ph.D.
Graduation: 2023
I study the high speed, dynamic deformation of polymer bonded explosives systems. This research is important to further our understanding of the mechanisms behind explosive initiation for continued safe and appropriate applications.
Q
What do you hope to do after graduation?
A
I hope to be able to move back to the southwest
Q
What was the most valuable advice you received before or during graduate school?
A
Don't be afraid to ask for help
Q
Why did you choose Purdue Engineering for your graduate studies?
A
Purdue Engineering has an emphasis on excellence in research and has many support networks in place to help graduate students succeed.
Q
If you could describe Purdue Engineering Graduate Programs in 3 words, which would you choose?
A
large, collaborative, well-funded
Q
What do you do for fun at Purdue or nearby?
A
I am involved in the art community in and around Purdue, including taking pottery classes at the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette and participating in the leadership of a local professional potter's organization, the Greater Lafayette Clay Guild.
Q
If you could talk with any person, living or dead, who would it be and why?
A
Academic answer: Paul Cooper, the author of the standard and most comprehensive explosives engineering texts to ask about his career and the extensive explosive accident investigations he was a part of. Fun answer: Albert Einstein (the man) to tell him I have a cat named after him (Einstein the cat).
Q
Favorite quote and why:
A
"What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make." — Jane Goodall
