What makes Washington State University stand out from the crowd for many of those looking to get an engineering degree? It starts with a supportive community.
We ask materials science and engineering major Jessica Erickson for thoughts on what makes WSU Pullman such a special place.
Name: Jessica Erickson
Major: Materials Science and Engineering
Expected Date of Graduation: 2022
Activities: Undergraduate Research in Nuclear, Optical, Magnetic, and Electronic Materials Laboratory under Professor John McCloy; Student Ambassador for the Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture; Vice-President, Material Advantage Student Club; Honors College
Q: Why would you recommend attending Washington State University?
A: If you are interested in working in a hands-on environment pursuing a research type career, WSU has an amazing community of dedicated faculty and students in engineering. WSU gave me the unique opportunity to begin research the first semester of my freshman year which has vastly accelerated my learning related to materials science engineering concepts.
Q: What advice do you have for fellow or prospective students?
A: Earning an engineering degree is filled with multitudes of challenges. To be successful as an engineering student it is pivotal to engage with faculty and students outside of class time by attending office hours and creating group study sessions. I would recommend students to communicate with faculty as much as possible about things both relevant and unrelated to coursework.
Specific to materials science and engineering, I believe engaging in undergraduate research at some level is an integral part of success. By attending group meetings, working in a lab setting, and communicating with people more knowledgeable than yourself outside of class you learn concepts much faster. At the end of the day, it is highly important to stay involved and stay active with people in your field.
Q: What has been your favorite program that you’ve been involved with at WSU?
A: My favorite program outside of engineering is the Honors College. Because of the Honors College, I quickly made a very close group of friends because of the small class sizes and tight knit community. Further, the Honors College has even further expanded the opportunities WSU has to offer such as study abroad and scholarships.