Major: Architectural Engineering

Class: 2010

Hometown:  Westchester, Ill.

Type of scholarship(s):  MSOE Presidential Scholarship, MSOE Academic Scholarship, SAMMY Milk Mustache Scholarship.

Favorite personality trait:  Adventurous and wacky

Favorite food:  Pancakes... any time of the day

Favorite band/type of music:  I listen to everything and anything from rock to relaxation.

Favorite store/place to shop:  Forever 21 and Target.

Family pet:  My cat, Butters

Job: Last year, I interned in the college program at Walt Disney World as an operations worker at Rock ‘n' Roller Coaster. This year, I work at MSOE in the marketing department as an office assistant. 

What have you liked most about your MSOE experience so far?
I really appreciate how MSOE lets you dive straight into your major.  From my first day at MSOE, I began learning about architectural engineering in the classroom, in labs and even from faculty experiences.  I deeply appreciate how much the faculty guide you and care about your education and well-being. 

Beyond academics, what have you learned at MSOE?
By participating in a number of extracurricular activities, I have learned that only by getting involved do you truly develop as a person.  There is only so much one can learn from books, but by interacting with others outside the classroom, you learn to innovate, lead, guide and communicate with others.

What's your favorite memory at MSOE?
I'll never forget my first St. Patrick's Week at MSOE.  It was fun and crazy-full of activities and competitions which I participated in with my sorority, Lambda Zeta Nu. We made a carnival booth, competed in the indoor engineering olympics, danced on stage at the variety show and cheered on the MSOE sport teams.  I even got to run around campus with the St. Patrick's court and dismiss participating classes early. 

What have the scholarships done for you?
The scholarships I received have allowed me to meet a variety of people who either share my scholarships or sponsor the scholarships.  It truly gives you an appreciation for learning.  We are given the great privilege of learning at MSOE which many people cannot receive.  Knowing that, I vow to continue to learn and grow as an individual my whole life. 

Why did you choose MSOE? Are you happy with your decision?
I chose MSOE because I knew it would prepare me for the engineering world with its experienced staff and hands-on laboratories.  Not only did I choose MSOE for the great future it would provide me, but also because it was a place where I could enjoy my college years.  It is located in the heart of a city full of activity; however, the school still has a comforting family atmosphere.  I love it here, and I am thankful for all the experiences and knowledge MSOE has given me. 

What are you involved in at school?
I am a member of the Women's Varsity Basketball team.  I also take leadership roles as the vice president of the Xtreme Sports club and secretary of my sorority, Lambda Zeta Nu.  To help those new to MSOE, I participate as an Orientation Assistant and Peer Mentor. I'm also a member of the Student Union Board, Circle K and Women's Connections. 

What are you involved in outside of school?
Outside of school, I help the community by volunteering as an aid in the Christ the King Grade School 5K Run in my home town.  I also am a tutor and Eucharistic minister at my high school parish, Immaculate Conception.  Lastly, I volunteer to run and coach grade school basketball camps in my community where I get to help children learn the sport I love. 

What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduation I hope to become an environmental engineer specifically dealing with green building and design, and soon thereafter raise my own family.