Hi, my names Abel and I’m a second year at the University of Virginia studying Mechanical Engineering. Can’t wait to show you all around Grounds!

Hometown

Herndon, VA, USA

Major(s)

Mechanical Engineering (considering double major in Aerospace Engineering)

Clubs, organizations & involvement

NSBE(National Society of Black Engineers EESA(Ethiopian Eretrian Student Association) TPEG(Theme Park Enigneering Group) Solar Car Team OAAA Peer Advisor Program CRAVE at UVA Model

Describe your college experience

My experience has been great! The transition itself wasn’t as hard as I thought for me, I felt very independent at college. I experienced many things for the first time(i.e going to a party, getting a B+ in a class) but it was fun to navigate these new experiences with the new friends I made

Tip for future students

TALK TO EVERYONE especially during the first week. Everyone around is just as scared to approach you so the first week is the easiest time to make friends. If you’re more introverted and want to be more extroverted join clubs! They’re a great way to meet new people and try new things. UVA has over 800 student organizations so there are many different options(but don’t spread yourself too thin)

Favorite class

So far it has to be Statics(MAE 2300). Very interesting material and it’s the first mechanical engineering class I took outside of the pre-reqs. I definitely learned a lot

Career goals

Be a mechanical engineer at Disney, F1, or any manufacturing plant

Ideal way to spend a free night

Hang out with my friends at their dorm​/​ their dorm lounge. Watch a movie on my laptop

High school or secondary school

Annandale High School(Annandale, VA) Westfield High School(Chantilly, VA)