How did you choose to pursue an advanced degree at Illinois?

Illinois has one of the best engineering programs in the whole world and it’s my home, why wouldn’t I pursue an advanced degree here?

Tell me about your master's program. 

My MS was a non-thesis program focused primarily on advanced coursework. I liked that the curriculum allowed flexibility to choose classes aligned with my interests while still requiring courses across multiple aerospace specialties. That structure pushed me to explore areas outside my main focus and made the program more well-rounded, and of course the graduate courses went deeper into the technical foundations which I really enjoyed. The program also allowed electives from other departments, which helped broaden my perspective. 

In addition, I completed an independent study in AE597 with Professor Elle Wroblewski. During that project, I created a website explaining airflow in aircraft engines, covering different flow types, engine concepts, and core aerodynamics principles, in hopes that it could be an additional resource for future students. 

Did you have any internships during your graduate program?

Yes, I completed a co-op at Consolidated Precision Products in Euclid, Ohio during my graduate program. I primarily supported process engineering while also contributing to product, quality, and manufacturing engineering.

I conducted daily precast mold audits and visual inspections of engine blades and vanes, analyzed process data to identify improvements, participated in cross-functional meetings to resolve production issues, updated engineering instructions, and supported tooling and fixture development.

Where did you find community?

I found community mainly through classes, student organizations, dorms and other outlets.

Outside of your grad studies, what did you do for fun?

Outside of studying, I like to read, play soccer, watch horror movies and spend time with my family.

Did you have any unusual challenges?

As a first-generation student at the university, one challenge was figuring out how to navigate both undergrad and graduate school without anyone at home who had done it before. Over time, I learned to seek out mentors, ask questions, and take charge of my own path, which really helped me grow and feel more confident throughout my time there and after.

What advice would you give yourself when you first started your MS program?

Every moment, even the hard ones, is worth remembering.

What's next for you?

I joined Boeing as a materials, processes and physics engineer in Huntsville, Alabama, supporting space exploration programs through Boeing Research & Technology. I’ll be working on integrated product teams focused primarily on the Space Launch System, ensuring hardware complies with NASA materials and process requirements throughout design, manufacturing, testing and sustainment.

My role will involve requirement verification, reviewing engineering designs, supporting supplier and subcontractor activities, resolving hardware anomalies, and helping implement corrective actions.

And, because of my master’s degree, I automatically started as an associate/level 2 engineer at Boeing.