Where are you from?

I’m from Newnan, Georgia.

What led you to choose Georgia Tech for your studies?

I chose Georgia Tech because it is a top engineering school, and I have always dreamed of coming here. The opportunities this school offers allow students to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world experiences. I was particularly drawn to the emphasis on hands-on learning, undergraduate research, study abroad, and professional development.

How did you choose the chemical and biomolecular engineering major?

I have always enjoyed chemistry and mathematics, and I wanted to pursue a major that would allow me to apply those interests to solving real-world problems. Chemical engineering stood out to me because of how versatile the field is, with applications ranging from pharmaceuticals to food and beverage.

What kinds of internships/co-ops have you had to date?

This past summer, I worked as a filtration and life sciences intern at Imerys, where I gained hands-on experience in research and development. My primary project focused on improving the purification of renewable diesel feedstocks through absorbent filtration. I conducted laboratory experiments, analyzed samples using ICP-OES, and evaluated different filtration materials to improve impurity removal. The experience helped me better understand how chemical engineering principles are applied in industry and strengthened my interest in research and development!

Are you involved in undergraduate research? If so, whose lab do you work in, and what are you researching?

I am currently involved in undergraduate research in the lab of Assistant Professor Julia Yang, where I work on optimizing the recovery of critical metals from spent lithium-ion batteries. My research focuses on using machine learning techniques to identify efficient and sustainable conditions for metal leaching. I have also been exploring alternative solvents for metal separation and recovery.

What extracurricular activities do you participate in at Tech?

Outside of academics, I am involved in Alpha Xi Delta, where I have had the opportunity to take on leadership roles and participate in philanthropic and community service initiatives. I have also been involved in Georgia Tech's student leadership programs, including serving as a ChBE student ambassador and a GT 1000 team leader. These experiences have allowed me to connect with students from different backgrounds, develop my leadership skills, and become more involved in the Georgia Tech community.

You’ve served as a ChBE student ambassador and a GT 1000 team leader. Can you talk about what you do in those roles and what you’ve gotten out of them?

As a ChBE student ambassador, I have the opportunity to represent the department, connect with prospective students and families, and share my experiences as a chemical engineering student at Georgia Tech. As a GT 1000 team leader, I helped first-year students transition into college by providing guidance, sharing resources, and helping them become more comfortable navigating life at Tech. Both roles have been incredibly rewarding because they have allowed me to give back to the community that has supported me throughout my own college experience. They have also helped me strengthen my communication, leadership, and mentorship skills.

Have you participated in study abroad? If so, what was that experience like?

Yes! I participated in the Georgia Tech Oxford Study Abroad Program during the summer of 2024. Through the program, I had the opportunity to travel through Spain and Portugal before spending six weeks studying at the University of Oxford in England. It was an incredible experience because I was able to continue progressing toward my degree while immersing myself in different cultures and exploring new places. One of my favorite parts of the experience was the friendships I made, and I even live with one of the friends I met on the trip now! Studying abroad helped me become more independent, adaptable, and open to new experiences, and I would highly recommend it to other students.

What advice would you give to new students pursuing chemical and biomolecular engineering?

My biggest piece of advice would be to get involved early and take advantage of the opportunities Georgia Tech has to offer. I would encourage students to explore different areas of chemical engineering before deciding what they want to pursue professionally. There are so many career paths within the field, and experiences outside the classroom can help you discover what interests you most. Most importantly, don't be afraid to ask for help and build relationships with your classmates!

Is there anything else you’d like to add about your experiences related to your education?

One of the most valuable aspects of my experience at Georgia Tech has been the opportunity to apply what I have learned in the classroom to research, industry, and leadership experiences. Through my coursework, undergraduate research, and internship, I have developed a greater appreciation for how versatile chemical engineering is and the impact it can have on addressing real-world challenges. I am incredibly grateful for the professors, mentors, and fellow students who have supported me along the way, and I am excited to carry these experiences into my future career.