Why did you choose to attend UB?
I chose UB because it was one of a handful of universities in New York that offered an aerospace degree while being the most affordable. In fact almost all the other universities were double the cost.
Why did you decide to major in MAE?
I decided to major in MAE because of the technical skills my father and uncle had as mechanical engineers. Both of these influences in my life are not here with us today but I hope they can live on though me. My father was literally the handy-man, any job that involved machinery, welding, or masonry he had done it 1000 times. Going through his boxes and boxes of tools as a kid, I found it amusing to figure out what they were even for. As for my uncle he was there for most of my grade school and I had always looked up to him, and not just because he was six and half plus feet tall. He was the most intelligent, kindhearted, and humorous person I knew and I wanted to be at least half of the person he was.
What is your favorite thing about living in Buffalo?
My favorite thing about living in Buffalo is the food. It may not be the healthiest, but it is definitely the most appetizing. I will never again use Ranch with my chicken wings.
What was your involvement outside the classroom? (i.e. student clubs, athletics)
I was involved with many student clubs outside the classroom where I met most of my closest and lifelong friends. Not only were we spending hours upon hours of our free time doing amazing engineering projects like building satellites and rockets but we helped each other out with our homework, projects, and studying and I don't think I would have completed my degree without them.
In my student club experience, I was given so many opportunities to prove myself in the world of engineering and in all of my job interviews they were the topic of conversation. Through these student run clubs I have met industry leaders, CEO's, and have shaken more hands with real life successful engineers than I could ever count.
What are your plans after graduation?
My plans after graduation is to continue my higher education as a PhD. candidate for aerospace engineering at UB.
What is your advice to current and incoming MAE students?
My advice to current and incoming MAE students is to join student engineering clubs. There you will meet other students that took the classes you are in and are more than willing to give you help and advice. You will also make friends in your class that will help you when you need it most and may become one of your lifelong friends.
