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What is your major and what made you choose that field of study?
I am a civil engineering major and I chose this major based on my love for buildings, construction, and the design of making different structures people love to observe on a daily basis.
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What has been your favorite experience as an engineering student?
My favorite experience of being an engineer is not just one specific day or project, but the process of learning every day, seeing how my academics transition into real world practices, and how civil engineering has a massive impact on society.
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What is your dream job?
My dream job is designing and constructing commercial buildings, houses, and office spaces for big companies and families.
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What year do you expect to graduate?
May 2016
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What did you have for breakfast this morning?
Coco Pebbles
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You recently participated in the National Geowall Competition. What was that like?
It was amazing. There was so much work put into the project and it was very rewarding to receive 2nd place nationally. As the captain of the team, designing and constructing the most feasible GeoWall was difficult in itself. The best part of this experience was working aside graduate students Matthew Watters and Behdad Mofarraj and sophomore co-captain Nichole Elliot. These individuals kept me motivated and made every practice entertaining while staying on task.
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Has there been a standout professor or advisor that has inspired you during your time here at Arkansas?
Personally, Dr. Rick Coffman has inspired me to work hard and maintain a balance between business and pleasure. Between doing research, teaching class, and leading his own civil engineering firm, Dr. Coffman is the epitome of a dedicated worker. Joseph Daniels, a PhD candidate here at the University, was a teacher assistant my Spring sophomore year and he guided me through one of the hardest entry level classes as an undergraduate in statics and mechanics. He has been a great mentor for me within the civil engineering department.
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Do you have any words of wisdom for other engineering students?
There will be many times that you will want to give up or that this is too difficult – DON’T! I have failed numerous times and work load gets strenuous at times, but I am still breathing, healthy, and happy! Keep your head up and attack one task at time until you reach your goal. Four years ago, I would not believe someone if you told me I would graduate in four years, without having to retake or drop any classes, as a civil engineer. Now that it is fast approaching, I have appreciated the rigorous grind because it has made me a better person and respect that the best things in life do not come easy. Also, make time for relaxation. Whether that is playing a sport, watching movies, hanging out with friends, or reading you need some time to step away from school and do what you want to do! Although engineering consumes a lot of your time and energy, you deserve to have some fun!
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Anything else you’d like to tell us about?
Upon graduation, I am honored to say that I will be serving as an officer in the United States Navy Civil Engineer Corps. I want to get my professional license in either structural or geotechnical engineering