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Blaine Mercer – Student Spotlight

Blaine Mercer

Hometown:

  • Concord, NC

High School Graduation Year:

  • 2019

Degrees:

  • BS, Paper Science and Engineering, 2023
  • BS, Chemical Engineering, 2023

Work Experience:

  • No past experience, but looking forward to my upcoming Super Co-op with WestRock in Florence, South Carolina.

Why did you choose  Paper Science and Engineering (PSE)?

  • I chose PSE for a multitude of reasons. First, I felt like I was actually cared for by the department as the professors are easy to approach and care about me rather than simply what is best for the department. Second, I am able to connect with my peers in PSE very easily, something about it all made me feel like I was a part of a larger family. PSE is also an amazing choice for career development and with there hands on approach, they opens many doors in the professional world.

What is your favorite thing about Paper Science and Engineering?

  • My favorite thing about PSE is the attitude that we all have toward one another, it’s not just a major, it is a Family.

What is your favorite thing about NC State?

  • My favorite thing about NC State is that I get both a high quality education in Engineering, but also, that it is affordable and has an amazing environment that is truly like no other.

What advice would you offer to an incoming freshman?

  • I would suggest that first year students need to really hang on through CODA classes but also make sure you are enjoying life. Some of your classes will be very difficult, but try your hardest to remain focused and push through!

What would people be surprised to know about you? 

  • I think that most people would be surprised to learn that I grew up on a farm. I would say that I  come off as an average suburban college student to most people when they first meet me, so most people wouldn’t expect to learn that I do help operate my family’s subsistence farm. I think that this has heavily contributed to my strong work ethic as it was instilled in me from a young age.

Who has been your favorite staff and/or faculty member?

  • I think that my favorite Professor so far has been Dr. Byrd. He has an unparalleled ability to make himself the center of attention during a class function. This is a very good thing, as it keeps students attentive and focused on the learning. I think that it is very easy to see Dr. Byrd’s passion for the industry as a whole, and I think that he instills the same love for paper in his students. I’m looking forward to meeting the rest our department’s finest!