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Student Spotlight – Kelvin Borges

Kelvin Borges

Hometown:

  • Antwerp, Belgium

High School Graduation Year:

  • 2020

Degrees:

  • BS, Paper Science and Engineering, 2024
  • BS, Chemical Engineering, 2024

Work Experience:

  • Fall 2021 – currently on a Super Co-op through this fall with International Paper in Cayuga, Indiana.

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

  • I chose paper science and engineering because I went to an engineering camp at NC State during a summer when I was still in high school and I was placed into their paper science and engineering camp. I really enjoyed the experiments we did in the camp and how the program is so focused on sustainability and helping the world.

What is your favorite thing about Paper Science and Engineering?

  • I love how the professors are so invested in the students and want to see them succeed. I also love the family atmosphere and how close everyone is to each other.

What is your favorite thing about NC State?

  • I have only been at NC State for such a short amount of time, but I love the friends I have made here. I also love the opportunities available to us, which has allowed me to join the club tennis team, be a CNR Ambassador and get a super co-op.

What advice would you offer to an incoming freshman?

  • My advice to an incoming freshman would be to try new things and find out what you really want out of college apart from good grades and a degree. I think to be successful in college, you need to prioritize friends and your well-being instead of just working 24/7.

Who has been your favorite professor? 

  • I loved Dr. Byrd this past year in PSE 295 and PSE 201. You can truly tell he loves his job and loves teaching us. He always goes above and beyond to keep the class interesting and engaged. Dr. Byrd was one of the first professors I met during the paper science summer camp. His excitement about this major definitely made me a lot more interested when it came to applying.

What is the biggest obstacle you have faced thus far?

  • This past semester has been really challenging because I decided I want to change the way I study and go about my day so that I can be more productive and be more successful. Changing my mindset and habit has been really hard, but I am excited for my journey.

What is your favorite extra-curricular activity?

  • I love playing sports and staying active in general. I especially love tennis and soccer. I have played both sports since I was 4 years old. I’ve had a great time joining the NC State Club Tennis team where I have met a lot of fun people. We were also able to travel this semester to Knoxville, Tennessee, for a tournament against 4 other colleges, which was an amazing experience.