Why did you choose to study at WPI? 

I chose to study at WPI because it is a school that offers a familiar feeling. WPI is not overwhelmingly big, which allows me to interact with professors and classmates, but big enough to have a university experience. I really like the way the terms work (seven-week courses) and how the load of the classes is distributed (three courses per term) so that you can focus and do well in each class. I am a commuter and transfer student from Middlesex Community College (MCC) and I was looking for a school that had that same environment: diverse, friendly, empathetic, warm, inclusive, and focused on students’ educational and personal success. I found that here in WPI and I couldn't be happier about my decision to come here. I also received good financial aid that made the decision easier and worth it.

How are you involved with the WPI community? 

I am part of the LSAMP program that supports underrepresented communities with scholarships, graduate school, and information on educational opportunities, like internships, conferences, and more. I was part of LSAMP at MCC and I really appreciated the opportunities and help I got from the program, so I applied here at WPI as soon as I heard about it.

What’s your favorite thing about WPI? 

WPI faculty is very serious about helping students. All the professors and advisors I have had were amazing and helpful. I like how WPI offers a balanced student life – offering many resources to help you succeed, while keeping your mental health a priority with wellness days, weekly activities to help you relax and deal with school and life in general, as well as access to counselors. 

Do you have a faculty or staff mentor? 

Debra Boucher has been my amazing mentor. Since I transferred from MCC, she has offered me great support by checking on me weekly and making sure I am adapting well. Despite her busy schedule, she still makes time to listen to me and offer me advice on areas where I may be struggling. Having her support has been a huge part of making this transition and first year at WPI good, and has influenced how I like the school, how I feel about my classes, and my future plans.
 

Mechanical and Materials Engineering Professor Robert Hyers is another person who has offered me advice and opportunities to be part of WPI life. His recommendations and interest in my career success have led me to meet other students and faculty who I can count on when looking for ways to make my time productive.

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

Project-based learning at WPI has influenced my educational experience as it is more realistic of how the world works and allows me to gain more insight and participate with more enthusiasm. Personally meaningful projects make me more interested in the topics and inspire me to put in more effort than I would in a regular school curriculum.