Why did you choose to study at WPI?  

I chose to study at WPI because of its well-known graduate program in fire protection engineering (FPE). This program is only one of three across the nation, which makes it appealing for FPE employers. In addition, the opportunity to study aboard is built directly into the curriculum (Interactive Qualifying Project). I was fortunate enough to travel to Australia and apply skills learned in the classroom to real world projects. This experience allowed me to further develop my communication, organization, and time-management skills. More importantly, it created a professional environment within our team and sponsor, which prepared us for post-graduation. 

How are you involved with the WPI community?  

I'm currently the president of the Interfraternity Council (IFC). We serve as the governing body of all thirteen fraternities on campus. The previous year, I was vice president of risk management and a member of the WPI Campus Hearing Board, which I plan to continue next year. In 2021, I was an IFC delegate and IFC recruitment leader, which stemmed from being a part of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Mass. Beta fraternity chapter on campus. 
    
Ironically, in the fall semester as a first-year student, I wanted nothing to do with fraternity/sorority life. It wasn't until the spring that a couple of friends convinced me to explore what this community brought. As a surprise to me, it was nothing that I was expecting. Most people ask, "is it just like in the movies?" I was this person and can definitely say, it's nothing like the movies. WPI's fraternity/sorority life is extremely unique and special. That year, Sigma Phi Epsilon did their annual philanthropy event (St. Baldrick’s Foundation children’s cancer fundraiser), which put service at the forefront of the chapter. This year, we raised $12,745 for the St. Baldrick's Foundation. I saw first-hand that fraternities value giving back to their community while creating deep-rooted friendships that will last, even after graduation. 
    
From the moment I joined the chapter, I was fascinated by the amount of academic, social, and professional opportunities that would last a lifetime. As I took on the role of an IFC delegate and recruitment leader, I realized that I had a desire to further expand and progress my community. My ultimate ambition was to achieve the position of president and guide the fraternity community towards greater success. 

What’s your favorite thing about WPI?  

My favorite thing about WPI is the feeling of being a part of a tight-knit community. 

Do you have a faculty or staff mentor?  

Mackenzie Lipman in the Student Activities Office has been pivotal in making me the person I am today. As the IFC advisor for the last several years, she has continuously challenged me to think outside the box. Mackenzie has helped me further develop my communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills that will extend beyond graduation. 

How has WPI’s project-based learning influenced your education?  

Project-based learning at WPI has supplemented skills learned in the classroom more than any other test or quiz will. For example, in my traffic engineering course, we separate into groups and drive to intersections in Worcester to conduct real data collection of vehicles, pedestrians, signal timings, etc. This makes class more engaging and interactive than your traditional "find and calculate..." assessment. The ability to practice what you learn through projects allows the material to be much more meaningful.