Student Spotlight:
Justin Allen
What makes Washington State University’s Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture stand out from the crowd for those looking to get a degree?
We ask mechanical engineering major Justin Allen for his thoughts on what makes WSU such a special place.
- Major: Mechanical Engineering
- Expected Date of Graduation: May 2026
- Highschool: Auburn High School
- Scholarship: Madison & Virginia Oliver Endowment Scholarship
What made you decide to attend WSU?
I chose to transfer to Washington State University primarily because they are one of the few universities in Washington to offer an ABET-accredited Mechanical Engineering program. As for my major, I decided on Mechanical Engineering due to my passion for hands-on problem-solving, which was sparked by my experience with FIRST Robotics.
What advice do you have for fellow or prospective students?
For engineering students, I highly encourage you to join a club or participate in research. It allows you to apply the knowledge learned in the classroom, develop practical skills, and gain experience in collaborative environments and teamwork. Any hands-on involvement will set you apart and better prepare you for your career. You’ll apply the knowledge learned in class sooner, making you a stronger engineer.
What has been your favorite class or program that you have been involved in at WSU?
My favorite class at WSU has been System Dynamics (ME 348). I enjoyed learning how to mathematically model a system and explore the fundamentals of control theory. This class provided a strong foundation for understanding complex systems and their behavior, which has been both challenging and rewarding.
What clubs are you involved in on campus?
During my undergrad, I was involved with FSAE (Formula SAE). This experience allowed me to apply the knowledge I gained in the classroom to real world engineering projects, which was valuable for my professional development.
On a personal level, working with a diverse team helped me build important teamwork and communication skills, while also enhancing my problem-solving and adaptability. Overall, my involvement in FSAE was a great way to develop both technical expertise and soft skills.
Have you participated in any research projects related to your field of study?
During my senior year of undergrad, I joined the MIAR lab and worked on a soft robotics project under the guidance of Dr. Luo. This experience inspired me to pursue a PhD, as it reminded me of my time with FIRST Robotics in high school and reignited my passion for robotics. Personally, I find nothing more rewarding than working on projects that allow me to directly apply creative solutions to real-world challenges.