Luca Vaccino — Italy
Mechanical Engineering, Ph.D.
Graduation: December 2025
I'm part of RETHi team, a NASA funded institute which designs resilient extra-terrestrial habitats for Moon and Mars. In particular, I'm working on systems integration and transitions between crewed and dormant stages of a mission.
Q
What do you hope to do after graduation?
A
Staying in the US to work with some aerospace companies.
Q
What was the most valuable advice you received before or during graduate school?
A
Stop procrastinating.
Q
Why did you choose Purdue Engineering for your graduate studies?
A
People here are amazing! And Purdue the same university of the first and last man who went on the Moon. This is so motivating and inspiring!
Q
If you could describe Purdue Engineering Graduate Programs in 3 words, which would you choose?
A
Motivating, Versatile, Innovative
Q
What is the coolest thing you have encountered at Purdue?
A
Armstrong's footsteps on campus
Q
What do you do for fun at Purdue or nearby?
A
Going out with my friends, watching sports (Let's go boilermakers!), and going to the gym
Q
If you could talk with any person, living or dead, who would it be and why?
A
Adriano Olivetti was an Italian engineer, entrepreneur, and social activist who lived from 1901 to 1960. He believed in the importance of human-centered design and social responsibility. Under his leadership, Olivetti became a pioneer in the fields of computer science, telecommunications, and automation. He advocated for workers' rights, education reform, and democratic participation, and his ideas and legacy continue to inspire people around the world today.
Q
Favorite quote and why:
A
Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity. I truly believe that consistency and perseverance are the key to success.