Voiland CollegeVoiland College Student SuccessStudent SpotlightsStudent Spotlight: Cameron Penrod

Student Spotlight:
Cameron Penrod

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 Cameron Penrod for his thoughts on what makes WSU such a special place.

Cameron Penrod.

What has been your favorite class or program that you have been involved with at WSU?

ME 416 (Capstone) Getting to work on a real project over the course of 4 months is second to none in the classes I have taken here when it comes to how much I learned and how much I enjoyed the class.

What clubs are you involved in on campus?

The Palouse Aerospace Club, where I have taken on multiple leadership roles. It has provided me with a lot of experience and learning opportunities in project management, leadership, project/organizational finance, and, marketing. These are all valuable skills that engineers don’t get as much practice in. I would strongly recommend that all students get involved in clubs and work to become officers.

Six students stand at an outdoor booth displaying model rockets.
Cameron (third from right) and other student members of Palouse Aerospace holding the two rockets built by their club.

Have you participated in any internships related to your field of study?

Last summer I completed an internship with Snohomish PUD (SnoPUD). This was related to my interest in Power distribution and was very insightful. SnoPUD is a great company with a strong focus on safety and doing things the right way. I feel that I learned a great deal there over the last few months.

Why would you recommend attending Washington State University?

I would recommend WSU for two main reasons. One, the student quality of life is very good here compared to other universities. This is backed up by multiple top ten finishes in Princeton Review student rankings.

Second, WSU does more in professional development than a lot of other schools. WSU offers multiple career fairs, an internship fair, career/industry talks, resume help, interview prep, and industry connections for internship and job opportunities.

What advice do you have for fellow or prospective students?

  1. Attend classes. If you have questions, ask.
  2. Use all resources (Tutors, Office Hours, MLC, Friends).
  3. Don’t buy the textbooks unless you absolutely have to.
  4. Have to confidence to reach out for opportunities (be assertive).
  5. Network early and often.
  6. Join a club as soon as possible.