7/11/2013 Susan Mumm
Written by Susan Mumm
Aerospace Engineering at Illinois welcomed 77 new alumni following Commencement ceremonies May 12.
A total of 55 undergraduates, 17 master’s degree students, and 5 PhD candidates earned their degrees this spring, and many celebrated by participating in graduation events. Several of the bachelor’s and master’s degree graduates are continuing in their studies at AE at Illinois and other schools, including Imperial College in London and the University of Southern California. Others have found positions in industry, such as Boeing, Rolls-Royce, General Electric-Aviation and Raytheon Missile Systems; in government, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; and in academia, such as the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Many of the new graduates reflect fondly on their experience in AE.
“My tenure at Illinois has been one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life,” said Samantha McCue. “I’ve learned from amazing AE students and faculty, participated in cutting-edge research, worked for leaders in the aerospace industry and HAD FUN! I can't wait to begin the next chapter of my life and represent Illinois as a working engineering alumnus.”
Offered Sahithi Kalidindi, “My four years at Illinois were grueling academically but well worth it. They have allowed me to learn about myself as well as foster many invaluable connections with my fellow classmates, professors, and alumni and every experience I had has led me to grow as a person and I can honestly say that I am proud to be an Illini.”
And Phillip Michel added, “Aerospace at Illinois was tough, but every test, project, and late night at the aerolab brought the class together. I didn't even mind spending time at the lab because of how close we all were. You knew you were learning from the best, surrounded by the best, and that pushed me to work harder and do more than I had ever thought possible.”