Student Spotlight:
Betty Mitchell

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 civil engineering major Betty Mitchell for her thoughts on what makes WSU such a special place.

What made you decide to attend WSU?

I chose WSU because the people were so friendly and welcoming when I came to visit. It felt like there was a great community here and that was really important to me since WSU is out of state.

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

I got to participate in an internship as a surface water intern at Merrick and Company last summer. I learned so much about working in a professional setting and what an engineering job actually looks like. One great opportunity I had was to go on a site visit to a project currently under construction. I had looked at the engineering plans at the very beginning of my internship, and it was amazing to get to see how those plans corresponded to the real structures.

What programs or clubs are you involved in on campus?

I am involved in the Society of Women Engineers and the Winter Guard Club! Both clubs have allowed me to meet new people and develop skills in communication, professionalism, and leadership. I have also really enjoyed these clubs because they give me the chance to do something that is not engineering and meet people in other majors.

I am also involved in the Peer Mentoring Program. It has really allowed me to connect with other students and get to know more people in engineering. Some companies have mentoring programs for employees, and I would like to try to join one of those programs when I graduate because of my experience with this program.

What advice do you have for fellow or prospective students?

One thing that has helped me succeed in engineering is my friends and my professors. Having friends in your classes means you can do homework or study together. It doesn’t seem as hard when you’re all working on it together, and they can help you if you’re confused and you can help them. Going to office hours and connecting with professors has also helped me a lot. They can usually answer your question easily, and then they know you a little better especially if it’s a big class.