Rowan & Roots

What inspired you to pursue engineering as your major, and why did you choose Rowan University?

I was inspired to pursue engineering because I grew up surrounded by it. My dad and two older brothers are engineers, which exposed me early on to problem-solving and creative thinking. I’ve always enjoyed science and math, and engineering felt like the perfect way to combine those interests while creating solutions that can genuinely help people. I chose Rowan University because of its small class sizes, personable professors, and strong emphasis on hands-on, project-based learning starting freshman year. Rowan’s environment allows me to learn by doing while building meaningful connections with faculty and classmates.

What has been your favorite memory or moment so far within the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering?

One of my favorite memories within the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering has been taking several classes with Dr. Bhatia, including heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and vehicle dynamics, alongside my friends. Even though the material is challenging, his engaging teaching style makes the classes genuinely enjoyable. Sharing those experiences while learning complex concepts together has been especially memorable.

Is there a class, professor, or experience that has shaped your path or helped you find your niche?

The soft robotics clinic with Dr. Trkov and biomechanics with Dr. Mazzucco have played a major role in shaping my path and helping me find my niche. These experiences allowed me to explore the intersection of mechanical engineering, human movement, and assistive technology, and they showed me how engineering can directly impact people’s lives. Through these courses, I discovered my strong interest in applying mechanical engineering principles to biomedical and human-centered applications.

What’s the most valuable skill you've developed in your program so far?

The most valuable skills I’ve developed in my program are effective notetaking, strong problem-solving, and the confidence to push forward even when I don’t feel fully confident. Engineering has taught me how to organize complex information, work through challenging problems, and trust my ability to learn and adapt in uncertain situations.

Can you share a project you're especially proud of — from Engineering Clinic, coursework, or a personal build?

One project I’m especially proud of is from my soft robotics actuators clinic, where my team and I designed an assistive grasping glove using shape memory alloy nitinol wire. The goal was to create a compact, wearable device that supports hand function through soft robotic actuation. This project combined mechanical design, materials, and human-centered engineering, and it reinforced my interest in developing assistive technologies that directly improve quality of life.

Have your academic or career interests changed since your first year? How so?

Yes, my academic interests have definitely evolved since my first year. As I progressed through the curriculum, I discovered what I’m truly passionate about within engineering. While some areas, such as fluid mechanics and electricity and magnetism, were more challenging for me conceptually, I found that I really enjoy mechanics of materials and biomechanics. Those courses helped me realize that I’m most drawn to understanding how forces and materials interact with the human body, which has helped clarify my academic and career direction.

Engineering with Impact

How do you see engineering making a difference in the world — and what part of that impact excites you most?

Engineering makes a difference in the world by turning ideas into solutions that improve people’s everyday lives. What excites me most is engineering’s ability to directly support and enhance the human body, especially through assistive and biomedical technologies. Being able to apply mechanical principles to help people move, function, and live more independently is what motivates me and makes the impact of engineering feel meaningful.

Are you involved in any student organizations, research labs, competitions, or campus jobs? How have these shaped your experience?

I’ve been involved in several organizations that have shaped my experience at Rowan in meaningful ways. As a member of the Rowan Women’s Volleyball team, I’ve developed strong leadership, communication, and work ethic skills while learning valuable life lessons through challenges and teamwork. Serving as an Admissions Ambassador has allowed me to connect with prospective students and share their excitement about Rowan, while my role as a Rowan Athletics student-worker has given me experience working in a professional environment while staying connected to my passion for sports. I’m also involved in Catholic Campus Ministry and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, where I’ve been able to deepen and share my faith through fellowship, spiritual direction, and community. Additionally, attending the Pi Tau Sigma National Convention allowed me to connect with passionate engineers from across the country, which further inspired my academic and professional goals.

What advice would you give to future Rowan Engineering students who want to get involved, grow, and make an impact?

My advice to future Rowan Engineering students is to not be afraid to ask questions, the question you're thinking is probably one someone else has but is hesitant to ask. Build strong relationships with your professors, because they genuinely want to see you succeed. Take the time to learn how you study best, since everyone learns differently. It’s also important to get involved in activities outside of engineering to give yourself a break and avoid burning out. And most importantly, prioritizing your sleep, taking care of yourself is just as important as working hard.

Your Engineer’s Lens

What’s something in everyday life that you look at differently now that you’re studying engineering?

Studying engineering has changed how I see everyday life. I’m constantly thinking about the forces acting on our bodies and the objects and machines around us. Even when I watch sports or exercise, I find myself analyzing the physics behind movement, impact, and performance.

If you could design, invent, or improve anything — no limits — what would it be and why?

If I could design or improve anything, I would create more accessible and intuitive assistive technologies that support mobility and everyday movement. I’m especially interested in wearable devices that work with the body rather than against it, helping people regain independence through thoughtful, human-centered design. The idea of combining mechanics, materials, and biomechanics to improve someone’s quality of life is what excites me most about engineering.

Quick Hits

First engineering-related experience at Rowan (clinic, club, job, or project): Mechanical Arm project in Mechanical Design

Go-to drink or snack during late-night study sessions: Hot decaf coffee from wawa

One engineering tool, app, or software you rely on most: Goodnotes (for taking notes on my iPad)

Favorite spot to study or hang out on campus: Saxby’s in the business building and new section of the student center

One word that describes your engineering mindset: Intentional

“I want to be an engineer because…” I believe God has given me the ability to think critically and creatively, and I want to use those gifts to develop technology that helps others.