I'm a sophomore in mechanical engineering, so I can give you a real sense of what the engineering track looks like here; workload, professors, labs, all of it. I also play intramural sports and I'm active in a few clubs, so I can speak to student life beyond the classroom too. If you're deciding between UW and other schools for engineering specifically, or want to know how you'll balance academics with life outside of the classroom, I'm a good person to ask.

Hometown

Vancouver, WA

Major(s)

Mechanical engineering

Minor(s)

Business and Aerospace

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Intramural sports, hands-on engineering clubs, ASME, on-campus ministry

Describe your college experience

The transition to college was a bit of an adjustment at first: bigger classes, more independence, figuring out how to manage my own schedule. Joining intramural sports and getting involved in clubs early on made a huge difference. It gave me a built-in group of people and made a campus this size feel a lot smaller. Two years in, I've got a solid group of friends, I'm comfortable with the engineering workload, and I actually look forward to being on campus. At first I was worried about making friends and having a good time at college, but it's honestly very easy to make amazing friends, get connected, and get oriented.

Tip for future students

College workload at home is honestly easier than in high school, but the content is harder. Don't underestimate your classes, but also don't be anxious either. If you are a diligent student, you will succeed, and still lots of time to have fun. Don't stress about understanding everything about college day one either. It's a slow learn process, and you'll feel confident in no time.

Favorite class

There are plenty of easy and fun classes to take at UW, but of my hard classes I'd say my Calculus 2 was the most enjoyable. I loved the straightforward structure of the tests, and the class was set up well for success.

Career goals

I hope to work as an Aerospace engineer in either the defense industry or work in the military.

Ideal way to spend a free night

I love to spend time with friends either watching movies, throwing a football, eating out, or going out on a random late-night adventure.

High school or secondary school

Cedar Tree Ridgefield WA