Why did you choose Paper Science and Engineering (PSE)?
I met Dr. Byrd in a E101 info session and his passionate presentation about the program intrigued me.
What is your favorite thing about Paper Science and Engineering?
How focused the program is on career development. No matter what you want to do with your degree they will help you accomplish your goals and keep you connected.
What is your favorite thing about NC State?
Honestly the slogan “Think and Do.” I know it sounds corny, but I say it at least one time every day whenever I do anything remotely related to problem solving. On a more serious note, the resources you have at NC State are unmatched. As soon as I stepped foot on campus, I realized how much they care about the students.
What advice would you offer to an incoming freshman?
Please try to join some clubs and don’t let the coursework consume all of your time. College is hard and stressful but it can also be SO much fun.
Also, be kind to yourself; there is no need to beat yourself up over a bad grade or for failing a class. This stuff is hard and there are people willing to help.
Finally, go to the counseling center if you’re feeling any sort of down and out, there are some great counselors there, and it’s FREE so why not.
What is your favorite extra-curricular activity?
I really enjoy doing student outreach. I like telling people about how cool a seemingly not cool thing like PSE is.
What is the biggest obstacle you have faced thus far?
Getting out of my comfort zone. I wasn’t on campus for the entirety of 2019 because of co-op, internship, and a semester abroad in Finland (!!!!). If I told high school me that I did that, I wouldn’t believe me, but it was an invaluable experience. Even if it was hard to be away from family and friends for so long, I grew a lot and more importantly got to travel!
