Graduate Student Spotlight: Ryen Frazier

In Forest Biomaterials, we believe that our incredible student and faculty community is what sets us apart from other programs. We feel privileged to work with and empower exceptional students. In the following student spotlights, we will be highlighting our newest masters and doctoral students.

Ryen Frazier is from Raleigh, NC, and graduated from NC State University in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering. Since then, she has worked as a data marketer/analyst and process engineer at a media agency. She is now in her first year of graduate school pursuing a Master of Forest Biomaterials. She will be working with Dr. Gonzalez and Dr. Pawlak to research tissue paper dust particle generation & characterization. We recently had the chance to catch up with Ryen and ask her about some of her experiences here at NC State.

Why did you choose to pursue a graduate degree in Forest Biomaterials?

After completing my undergraduate degree in Textile Engineering (which I loved), I knew I wanted to pursue academia further. Still, I wanted to expand my knowledge in a slightly different field to open up more job opportunities. The one thing that the textile industry lacks is a sustainable system. Therefore, I wanted to move into a field where fibers (and products) can more easily be recycled and reused rather than put to waste at their “end of life.

What is your favorite thing about Forest Biomaterials and the College of Natural Resources?

The Forest Biomaterials program is made up of several teams of hard-working individuals who support each other and work together to reach far beyond the small community in which we reside.

What is your favorite thing about NC State?

I love the strong sense of Wolfpack Pride and world-class STEM curriculums.

What advice would you give to an incoming graduate student?

I would definitely suggest getting involved in research as early as possible. Having an advisor that you connect with regularly and coworkers to support you makes a big difference.

What has been your biggest challenge as a graduate student?

Oftentimes there will be several projects occurring simultaneously, and it isn’t easy to manage. Prioritizing and re-prioritizing nearly daily has been a difficult transition for me.

Outside of your studies, what do you enjoy doing?

Outside of classes and research work, I am a member of NC State’s Cross Country and Track and Field teams, and I enjoy competing for the school and spending time with my teammates.