Madison Ciccarella

Where are you from?

Hamburg, NY

Why did you choose UB?

I initially enrolled at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Albany, but transferred to UB after one semester. I chose UB because it is a great engineering school right in my backyard. I missed Buffalo, and going to UB allows me to see my family and friends easily.

Why did you choose to go into engineering?

I chose to go into engineering because I love math and science. I want to work in a field that has opportunities to advance technology and make an impact on the world.

What do you like most about engineering at UB?

I like that there is a lot of emphasis on extracurricular activities. From engineering clubs to research, the experience is very well-rounded and allows for students to develop diverse skills.

What is your favorite place on campus?

My favorite place on campus Davis Hall. 

What are you working on right now?

I am working on math classes, my senior design project, and research project. My research is with the CRASH lab at UB. I am responsible for materials selection for a robotic mission to Venus.

What else do you do on campus?

I am a teaching assistant for the mechanical engineering materials lab, as well as a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and a member of Phi Sigma Rho. 

What have you done that you are most proud of?

I am most proud of making the Dean’s List the past two semesters. 

Have there been any particular faculty or staff member that has been formative during your time at UB?

My faculty advisor Dr. Joseph Mollendorf was dedicated to helping me explore my options after graduation. He encouraged me to weigh my options for a master’s program versus entering the workforce. He helped me apply for scholarships and the master’s program at UB. 

My research advisor Dr. Javid Bayandor has also provided invaluable guidance for both my research and navigating my professional career. He encourages his students to apply for scholarships, competitions, and professional opportunities. He connects us with professionals in our fields and always pushes us to do outstanding work.

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about engineering, particularly the topics of fluid mechanics, materials science, heat transfer, and applied mathematics.

What are your future plans?

I just accepted an internship at Otis Elevator in Florence, South Carolina. I am very excited for this opportunity. I plan on returning to UB in the fall to pursue my master’s degree in mechanical engineering. Eventually, I would like to earn a Professional Engineering certification and a Six Sigma certification.

What is your advice for prospective students?

Join a club, society, or Greek organization at UB. The sense of community changed my entire college experience for the better.

Madison Ciccarella received a 2020 Leaders in Excellence Scholarship from the UB Engineering and Applied Science Alumni Association (UBEAA).