Hi! I'm an engineering student originally from Pittsburgh and an active member of a sorority. I love meeting new people and sharing what college life is really like. Outside of class, I enjoy staying active by playing volleyball and soccer, so I'd be happy to talk about getting involved on campus, balancing academics with extracurriculars, and finding your community. Whether you have questions about engineering, Greek life, housing, campus traditions, or student organizations, I'm happy to share my experience and help you get a better feel for campus. I look forward to meeting you and showing you around!

Hometown

Oakdale, Pa

Major(s)

Bioengineering, Mechanical Engineering

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Working in UPMC's PET Research Department. Freshman Representative and Business Manager for the Biomedical Engineering Society. Member of the Society of Women Engineers, Engineers Without Borders, and Delta Zeta sorority. Active in recreational soccer and volleyball. Participated in the Plus3 study abroad program.

Describe your college experience

When I was applying to colleges, Pitt was honestly my last choice because I was set on going farther from home. Looking back, I wasn't very open minded and I was struggling to find my identity outside of soccer, since it had been such a big part of my life for so long. Once I got to campus, I pushed myself out of my comfort zone, met incredible people, and got involved in ways I never expected. Through engineering organizations, research, Greek life, study abroad, and recreational sports, so many opportunities opened up both academically and personally. I'm especially grateful for the friendships I've built, including the upperclassmen I've met through my sorority who have been amazing mentors. My first year completely changed my perspective, and I'm so thankful I chose Pitt. I'm excited to see what next year brings, and I'm looking forward to trying out for the club soccer team!

Tip for future students

My biggest piece of advice is not to put pressure on yourself to do everything. When I first got to college, I felt like I needed to know about every event, party, or networking opportunity, and I would get upset if I missed something. Looking back, I wish I had focused more on being present and enjoying the experiences I was already having. I also think it's really important to figure out what genuinely makes you happy. College can be overwhelming at times, and having hobbies, routines, and people that keep you grounded makes a huge difference. Before college, if someone asked what made me happy, I would have said soccer and hanging out with friends. Once I got to school, those things weren't always as accessible, so I had to learn more about myself and discover new interests. That process helped me become more independent and resilient. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, because you might discover passions and opportunities you never expected.

Favorite class

My favorite classes have been ENGR 11 and ENGR 12 because they introduced me to tools like Excel, MATLAB, and C programming through real engineering applications. Rather than solving cookie cutter problems, we worked through scenarios that engineers actually encounter in the field, which made the material much more engaging. I also found these skills to be incredibly practical. I was able to apply what I learned during my internship in UPMC's PET Research Department, which showed me how valuable those foundational engineering and programming skills are in a professional setting.

Career goals

My goal is to work in the medical device industry, where I can help design innovative technologies that improve patients' lives. I'm also interested in the intersection of engineering and law, and I'm exploring the possibility of pursuing patent law focused on biomedical technologies.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal free night depends on the day of the week. During the week, I love going for a run, cooking dinner with my roommates, and spending time on our porch painting or just catching up. Those slower evenings help me recharge after busy days. On the weekends, I enjoy getting ready with my friends and seeing where the night takes us. We don't always have a set plan, but I've learned that as long as we're together, we'll have a good time. Before college, my weekends were usually spent traveling for soccer tournaments and staying in hotels, so I definitely miss that part of my life. I'm hoping to make Pitt's club soccer team next year, so an ideal weekend would also include getting back on the field and competing again.

High school or secondary school

West Allegheny High School, Imperial PA