The Dean's Team

Aanchal Paranthaman

Karnataka, India
Computer Science

Professional/Student Organizations

Dean's Team

Internships/Co-Ops

Backend Engineer Intern at Cautio

Favorite thing about VT?

The Hokie Bird!

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

There are so many different ways to get involved you just have to put yourself out there.

Fun Fact

I have a twin sister!

Aaron Grossman

Wayne, PA (Philadelphia)
Computer Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• Juxtaposition All Male A Cappella
• IEEE
• Baja SAE

CEED Participation?

• STEP
• Galileo

Internships/Co-Ops

• Embedded Engineering Intern, Moog
• Hardware Verification Intern, Owl Cyber Defense
• FPGA Intern, Owl Cyber Defense

Favorite thing about VT?

The Mac and Cheese at Owens and the VT A Cappella Community

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Having an umbrella at tech is actually cool and you should bring one!

Fun Fact

I have sung for an Austrian Prince

Aiden Clark

Stuarts Draft, VA
Mechanical Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• Enable
• Human Powered Submarine

CEED Participation?

Galileo

Internships/Co-Ops

McKee Foods Internship

Favorite thing about VT?

What I love most about Virginia Tech and the College of Engineering is the strong sense of community. Students, professors, and even alumni are always eager to support and encourage you on your journey.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

One thing I wish I had known is how many opportunities Virginia Tech offers. If you take the initiative to put yourself out there, which is by far the most important step, you’ll find endless ways to grow, connect, and succeed.

Fun Fact

I am double-jointed in both my arms.

Alexis Conlin

Marshall, VA
Mechanical Engineering 

Professional/Student Organizations

SWE

CEED Particiation?

Dean's Team

Favorite thing about VT?

My favorite thing about VT is the campus! Not only is the campus absolutely beautiful and each season of the year brings new sights, but the liveliness from the student body also makes it a wonderful place to spend time.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

College is a new experience for everyone, so don't be nervous or embarrassed to not know things and just have fun and learn as you go.

Fun Fact

I love baking and currently I am trying to master gluten free bread!

Amir Lahoud

Brooklyn, NY
Mechanical Engineering (Creative Writing Minor)

Professional/Student Organizations

WUVT General Manager

Undergraduate Research

Structures Lab as an URA and Laboratory for Biological and Bio Inspired Materials as an Undergraduate Volunteer Researcher

Favorite thing about VT?

How many people there are for so many different backgrounds!

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I had known more about the surrounding town before I applied.

Fun Fact

I'm a triplet!

Anita Raja

Singapore
Aerospace Engineering (Mathematics Minor)

Professional/Student Organizations

Society of Women Engineers

Internships/Co-Ops

Engineering internship with the Republic of Singapore Air Force

Undergraduate Research

English to Engineering Undergraduate Research (Aerospike)

Favorite thing about VT?

The multitude of opportunities available and support from faculty and other students provides an enriching environment for students to thrive in.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

College is not as overwhelming as it seems! There are a lot of resources to help you get through your time at Tech, just reach out!

Fun Fact

I have a black belt in taekwondo!

Ashlyn O'Neill

Stewartstown, PA 

Civil Engineering (Transportation Infrastructure and Systems Department)

Professional/Student Organizations

• ITE Chapter Leadership
• VT Clay Target Team
• Cassell Guard Executive Board
• Order of the Gavel
• Student Life Council
• Traffic Bowl Team Captain

CEED Participation?

Hypatia LLC

Internships/Co-Ops

• Whitman Requardt and Associates LLP (WRA) Summer 2025
• RK&K Summer 2024
• RK&K Summer 2023
• Whiting Turner Summer 2022

Undergraduate Research

• LEAPH Lab with Dr. Liao
• Project and Report with Dr. Katz

Favorite thing about VT?

Everyone I've met and all the amazing activities both in the engineering realm and outside of engineering! VT has something for everyone to get involved with. Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Definitely to bring more clothes than you may think you need. I for one under packed cold weather clothing my freshman year. My parents had to mail some pants and jackets to me which was a hassle. Whoever moves you in can always take items back home with them if they don't end up fitting in your room. Better to be overprepared than underprepared!

Fun Fact

I cannot whistle nor roll my tongue.

Ava Raphael

Baltimore, MD
Biomedical Engineering (Sociology Minor)

Professional/Student Organizations

• Director of Leadership for Student Alumni Associates
• National Society of Black Engineers
• Society of Women Engineers
• Students for African American Sisterhood
• Undergraduate Biomedical Engineers Society

CEED Participation?

Hypatia

Favorite thing about VT?

The welcoming environment and how this feels so much like home!

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

It is okay to feel nervous going into your freshman year! It is a big step but it also a step into the best years yet!

Fun Fact

I am a huge book lover :)

Brittany Hoffman

Fort Collins, CO
Dual Degree in Aerospace Engineering and Spanish (Naval Engineering Minor)

Professional/Student Organizations

• The Marching Virginians
• SWE
• SFTE
• DCTC Scholar

CEED Participation?

Peer Mentee

Internships/Co-Ops

Flight test engineering intern on the F-35 program at NAS Pax River, commercial space intern with the FAA

Undergraduate Research

Ocean Engineering research with Dr. Gilbert

Favorite thing about VT?

I love all the organizations and ways to get involved, both with the whole university and the college!

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I had known how much walking there would be and how big campus is!

Fun Fact

I know a weirdly large amount about lawn mowers.

Breleigh Brewer

Richmond, VA
Chemical Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)
• Omega Chi Epsilon (OXE)
• Dance Company at Virginia Tech

CEED Participation?

Hypatia (Living & Learning Community)

Internship/Co-Ops

Summer of 2025 Process Engineering Co-Op at the DuPont Spruance Site in Richmond, VA

Undergraduate Research

Martin Group - Membranes Lab with Dr. Martin, Chemical Engineering Undergraduate Research.

Favorite thing about VT?

I love the ability to participate in so many different organizations and experiences! Virginia Tech COE has so many ways you can develop your professional career like job fairs, undergraduate research opportunities, and career services resources that has really helped me be successful in engineering. There are also clubs and organizations you can participate in that helps make being majoring in engineering more fun with involvement in different extracurriculars! I have found everyone at VT to be so inclusive and it is easy to find your community/home here, while also getting the chance to develop your career.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I had known how easy it is to be involved in so many organizations. I thought that with engineering, I didn’t know how much time I would have outside of school to do things I enjoy. However, I have been able to participate in a dance club and different organizations in engineering that have helped me find a community, and I am still able to do well in school!

Fun Fact

I have a road named after me in Chesapeake, VA.

Danielle Miller

Virginia Beach, VA
Mechanical Engineering PhD                                Chemical Engineering B.S. (Chemistry Minor)

Professional/Student Organizations

• Alpha Omega Epsilon
• ChemE Ambassadors
• American Institute of Chemical Engineers

CEED Participation?

Galipatia program

Internship/Co-Ops

Westinghouse Electric Company (Summer 2022, Summer 2024

Undergraduate Research

Nature Inspired Fluids and Interfaces Lab

Favorite thing about VT?

My favorite thing about VT is the overwhelming sense of school spirit that brings everyone closer together.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

It’s okay to come in without a set plan for the rest of your life. Virginia Tech has the people and resources to help you make your way in the world.

Fun Fact

I competitively roller skated for a short while when I was younger.

Emily Jackson

Ellicott City, MD
Industrial and Systems Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• Chi Omega Sorority
• VT Women's Club Golf Team
• Hume Center Intelligence Community Center for Academic Excellence Scholar
• SWE
• AIAA
• IISE
• NSPE

CEED Participation?

Peer Mentoring Program

Internship/Co-Ops

Boeing's Engineering Accelerated Launch Program, 787 Interiors Design Engineering Intern

Undergraduate Research

Previous Autoplane Undergraduate Research Team

Favorite thing about VT?

I love the culture at Virginia Tech. Everyone is proud to be a Hokie!

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I had known that coming into college, I didn't have to be 100% certain on what specific type of engineering I wanted to do. I switched out of Aerospace, and I love Systems Engineering now!

Fun Fact

I am a dog mom to my chocolate lab!

Emily Sandt

Ocean City, MD
Civil Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• Student Engineers' Council
• Society of Women Engineers
• American Society of Civil Engineers
• CEE Ambassador

CEED Participation?

Dean's Team, previously hosted/participated in Women's Preview Weekend, Society of Women Engineers

Internships/Co-Ops

Whiting-Turner Construction Intern (2024) in Salisbury, MD, WSP Civil Intern - Transportation (2025) in Virginia Beach, VA

Favorite thing about VT?

My favorite thing about VT is the community. Every person on campus and all the alumni scattered throughout the world are so proud to be Hokies and so willing to help current or past students with anything they can. I have formed so many strong connections with Hokies on and off campus and it's always so much fun to share our experiences in Blacksburg.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming VT?

I wish I had known more about the scholarships offered for freshmen outside of the VT general scholarship before arriving at Tech. I have found out after the fact how many opportunities I have missed and how many organizations struggle to find applicants.

Fun Fact

I've high-fived Jimmy Fallon!

Evan Cline

Christiansburg, VA
Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science (Mathematics Minor)

Professional/Student Organizations

• SolarCar at Virginia Tech
• Quality of Life Plus
• Defense Civilian Training Corps
• Marching Virginians Drumline
• Student Success Center Tutoring

Internship/Co-Ops

Virginia Tech National Security Institute intern

Undergraduate Research

Virginia Tech National Security Institute/Hume Center for National Security and Technology research

Favorite thing about VT?

The football game day atmosphere!

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Don't be afraid to challenge yourself and step out of your comfort zone.

Fun Fact

I play in the band Studio 249!

Georgia Koutsouras

Long Island, NY
Mining Engineering (Geosciences, Green Engineering, Italian Minors)

Professional/Student Organizations

• Burkhart Mining Society
• Orthodox Christian Fellowship
• Gamma Delta Sigma
• Mining Competition Team
• Women in Mining, The Italian Club
• International Society of Explosives Engineers

CEED Participation?

Peer Mentoring Program (Peer Leader)

Internship/Co-Ops

Volunteer Experience at Carrara Marble Mines in Italy

Undergraduate Research

Autonomous Mining Research (2023-24)

Favorite thing about VT?

The beauty of fall and when the leaves turn maroon and orange.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Just how amazing it is to be living in the mountains, all the hiking trails available, and the amazing views we get each day.

Fun Fact

I speak Greek!

Guinevere Vu

South Riding, VA
Chemical Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• FLEX
• Catholic Campus Ministry
• Engineering Volleyball League
• Intramural Sports
• SWE

CEED Participation?

C-Tech^2 and Hypatia

Favorite thing about VT?

The welcoming and supportive community!

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

There are so many great resources to help you as you navigate your college journey and the community here is truly one of a kind that makes our campus a special place!

Fun Fact

I've played volleyball since fourth grade and have coached for three years!

Hannah Petersen

Vienna, VA
Electrical Engineering (Mathematics Minor)

Professional/Student Organizations

• ECE Ambassadors
• Women in ECE (WECE)
• Fralin Undergraduate Research Fellows (FURF)
• ICCAE Scholars
• Catholic Campus Ministry
• Residential Well-Being Student Leaders (SL)

CEED Participation?

Galipatia

Internship/Co-Ops

• TSG Engineering Intern (Intelligent, Controls, & Automation focus) at Procter & Gamble Inwood, WV (Summers: 2024, 2025)
• LPS Qubit Collaboratory: Quantum Computing Summer Program (Summer 2025)

Undergraduate Research

• E2E: Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) Undergraduate Research Team
• NEEC Antenna Undergraduate Research Team
• RF Concepts Independent Study
• Baja SAE Design Team

Favorite thing about VT?

What I love most about Virginia Tech is how our students carry themselves with genuine integrity. Hokies embody kindness, class, and humility, but above all, they consistently put the needs of others before their own. It’s this spirit of selflessness and respect that truly defines our community.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Being in COE is about so much more than just earning a degree: In my time here, I’ve discovered new passions, built lifelong friendships, and developed a work ethic I didn’t know I was capable of. These experiences have strengthened my confidence and resilience, and I’m excited to carry everything I’ve learned into my life after graduation.

Fun Fact

I can handstand walk pretty far!

Jasmine Mendez

Woodbridge, VA
Mechanical Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• SHPE
• BCM

CEED Participation?

• Peer Mentoring Program
• SHPE

Internships/Co-Ops

Northrop Grumman College Intern Technical at the Radford Army Ammunition Plant

Undergraduate Research

UAS Jammer Localization - AVA Lab

Favorite thing about VT?

The big and welcoming Hokie community

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Bring some waterproof shoes for the rainy days!

Fun Fact

I ride a motorcycle!

Joanna Haley

Stafford, VA
Industrial & Systems Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• Currently apart of: Black Organizations Council
• Previously apart of: ISE Ambassador, Summer Hokies Onboard Mentor Program.

CEED Participation?

Previously involved in Galipatia (Service Learning Committee, Mentor, Mentor Liaison)

Internships/Co-Ops

University of Maryland - Applied Research Lab for Intelligence and Security (ARLIS)- Research for Intelligence and Security Challenging (RISC)

Undergraduate Research

RISC, Hume Center: Alternative Navigation in GPS Denied Environments

Favorite thing about VT?

The diversity of the programs and the many opportunities due to it. There really is something for everybody.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

More scholarship/financial aid programs offered at VT. Especially to incoming freshmen.

Fun Fact

I was born in Keflavik, Iceland.

Jordan Vargas

Burke, VA
Computer Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
• Latin Link

CEED Participation

Galipatia Living Learning Community

Internship/Co-Ops

BAE Systems

Undergraduate Research

In a design team, RockSat-X

Favorite thing about VT?

The food. Turners and Perrys Place is amazing.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

There are a lot of free resources available just by being a student like Career Outfitters.

Fun Fact

I collect different flavors of Monster cans

Kunal Verma

Fairfax, VA
Civil Engineering (Finance, Math, Green Engineering Minors)

Professional/Student Organizations

• Steel Bridge Design Team
• ASCE

CEED Participation?

CEED RISE Program

Internship/Co-Ops

Whiting-Turner Contracting Company Engineer Intern

Favorite thing about VT?

My favorite thing about VT is the culture on campus.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

One thing I wish I had known before coming to VT is how far apart classes can be.

Fun Fact

I am training for a marathon

Kyla Luby

Lorton, VA
Electrical Engineering (Computer Science Minor)

Professional/Student Organizations

• Solar Car at VT

CEED Participation?

Hypatia Living Learning Community from August 2024-May 2025

Favorite thing about VT?

I love how people can discover their unique niche passions here and delve into them through clubs, professional organizations, and undergraduate research!

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I had been aware of more resources to explore all of VT's design teams and undergraduate research labs.

Fun Fact

I love to do origami, especially flower bouquets.

Kyle Walker

New Market, MD 
Electrical Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• IEEE
• Stamps Scholars
• Honors College

Internships/Co-Ops

John's Hopkins Applied Physics Lab - Electrical Engineering Intern

Undergraduate Research

NEEC Lab: Phased Arrays and Visualization w/Dr. Davis

Favorite thing about VT?

There are so many amazing opportunities to get involved on campus and explore your major. Design teams and undergraduate research are easy to join and give great experience.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I had known more about how the engineering major system works and been told about the accelerated intro to engineering class that allows you to declare your major after one semester.

Fun Fact

I have a wooden duck collection.

Lauren Dorr

Cincinnati, OH
Industrial and Systems Engineering (Entrepreneurship - New Venture Growth)

Professional/Student Organizations

• IISE
• Alpha Pi Mu
• Kappa Kappa Gamma
• ISE Ambassadors

CEED Participation

Hypatia

Internships/Co-Ops

Engineering Solutions Intern at Cintas

Favorite thing about VT?

Genereal engineering! I love that you are able to take your first year to learn about the types of engineering that VT offers to find the right one for you!

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Start getting involved early on! It is a great way to make new friends and often leads to holding leadership positions in the organization!

Fun Fact

I play pickleball.

Lauren Ruiz-Arenas

Reston, VA
Computer Science

Professional/Student Organizations

• CS Careers
• Consulting Group at Virginia Tech
• Latin Link

CEED Participation?

Clark Scholarship

Internships/Co-Ops

Salesforce SWE Internship

Favorite thing about VT?

Love the community! Hokies help Hokies is so real!

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

That time would fly by quickly, can't believe it's already senior year

Fun Fact

I've visited 12+ countries in the past year! (I studied abroad in Switzerland!)

Lily Donaldson

Arlington, VA
Industrial & Systems Engineering (Spanish Minor)

Professional/Student Organizations

• The Diggeridoos at Virginia Tech - Director of Operations (May 2025-present), Business & Logistics Lead (May 2024-May 2025), Business Member (January 2024-May 2024)
• Society of Women in Engineering (SWE) - Member (fall 2022-present)
• Engineering Dean's Team - Member (Fall 2024-present)

CEED Participation?

• C-Tech^2, Summer 2020
• CEED Peer Mentoring, Fall 2022
• Engineering Dean's Team, Fall 2024-present

Internships/Co-Ops

This summer, I was a Global Operations Analyst Intern at Bank of America in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Favorite thing about VT?

One of my favorite things about Virginia Tech is how supportive and invested the College of Engineering is in your success, both in academics and in your career.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I had brought a good winter jacket - Blacksburg winters are no joke!

Fun Fact

I studied abroad in Valencia, Spain my sophomore year at VT!

Luis Cuellar Lelo de Larrea

Ashburn, VA
Construction Engineering and Management (Finance Minor)

Professional/Student Organizations

• Phi Kappa Psi
• Undergrad Teacher Assistant
• CEM Ambassador
• Intramural Sports

Internships/Co-Ops

• 2025: Summer Internship at Whiting Turner
• 2024: Summer Internship at The Christman Company

Favorite thing about VT?

My favorite thing about VT is the community and how welcoming it is. From students to faculty everyone is supportive. This makes it easy to feel at home and build life long connections.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I had known that VT offers so many opportunities and strong connections with leading industry companies, and how important it is to take full advantage of them.

Fun Fact

I like to play pickleball.

Luis Tovar

Danville, VA
Mechanical Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)
• Engineering Dean’s Team
• Chamber Music at Virginia Tech
• Theme Park Engineering & Design

CEED Participation?

Mentor, Mentor Liaison, and an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant for the Galileo Program

Internships/Co-Ops

Mechanical Engineering Intern with CFR Engineering Consultants.

Favorite thing about VT?

My favorite thing about VT is how electric the atmosphere is during game days, and my favorite thing about the COE is that students aren't competing against each other but instead lifting each other up.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I knew about all the different types of organizations at Virginia Tech because at first it seems a bit overwhelming but there is something for everyone.

Fun Fact

I used to compete in world class music competitions.

Marcelo Sandoval Vogt

Richmond, VA
Mechanical Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• Advanced Control Systems Lab
• Quality of Life+
• Orbital Launch Vehicle Team

Internships/Co-Ops

• Cobotiq
• Caterpillar Inc.

Undergraduate Research

Advanced Control Systems Lab

Favorite thing about VT?

The community

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Bring a bike!

Fun Fact

I speak 4 languages: English, German, Spanish, and French!

Meagan Dixon

Hamilton, NJ
Mining Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• Women in Mining
• Bevlee Watford Society
• Chi Omega

CEED Participation?

Dean's Team

Internships/Co-Ops

Operations Intern - Rogers Group Inc.

Favorite thing about VT?

Football Gamedays.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

That everyone's academic path and timeline are unique to them, and there is no right or wrong to either.

Fun Fact

I got to drive a 70-ton haul truck this summer

Michael Hatami

Springfield, VA
Computer Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• Autoboat VT
• Robogrinder

CEED Participation?

Digerati (2024-2025)

Undergraduate Research

AOE undergraduate researcher

Favorite thing about VT?

My favorite thing about VT is how friendly people are and how safe the campus is. It is very easy to get involved with different parts of Virginia Tech and meet new people. Leaving my bag in random places and picking it up later is a bit of an extra bonus.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

One thing I wish I had known before coming to Virginia Tech is how useful the bus system is. I was stubborn in going to class by walking and staying on campus, but there are many opportunities that are available because of the bus system.

Fun Fact

In my free time, I go to the gym and I also do traditional pen and paper art.

Nathan Herrick

Cary, NC
Building Construction and Commercial Real Estate 

Professional/Student Organizations

• Captain of ASC (Associated Schools of Construction) Design Build Team
• Mulroy Case Competition Team (National Champions)
• Building Construction Ambassador

CEED Participation? 

Peer Mentorship program

Internship/Co-Op

Investments Intern at QTS Data Centers

Favorite thing about VT?

Virginia Tech stood out to me because of the strong focus on student success. Faculty are committed to helping each student reach their own goals. From the one-on-one mentorship, international travel, and exposure to work alongside industry leaders, the opportunities at Virginia Tech are endless.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish that I had known to reach out to current students! The process of picking the right school is challenging, but becoming familiar with the experiences of current students is a great way gain insight to what the school has to offer.

Fun Fact

I love being active and the outdoors - skiing is my favorite!

Neumann Davila

Woodbridge, VA
Electrical Engineering (Physics, Quantum Information Science and Engineering Minors)

Professional/Student Organizations

Marching Virginians

CEED Participation

Galileo

Internships/Co-Ops

Software Development Intern @ Amazon Web Services

Undergraduate Research

Hybrid Nanoscale Systems Research Group

Favorite thing about VT?

My favorite thing about VT is the amount of support that is available for students, both academically and professionally. I feel that VT does a really good job, specifically in the COE, helping students receive the help they need and succeed in their career.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I knew more about the opportunity to pursue a graduate degree with the UGG program (Undergraduate-Graduate Program)

Fun Fact

I have visited 9 different countries outside the US.

Nolan Platt

San Diego, CA
Computer Science Green 

Professional/Student Organizations

Ambassador for the Office of Undergraduate Research, panel member for Office of Undergraduate Academic Integrity.

Internships/Co-Ops

• Current: Founding ML Engineer @ Oaklet in Berkeley, California
• Spring 2025: IT Technician for the Virginia Tech College of Engineering Dean's Office
• Summer 2025: Hitachi Vantara Federal, Data Science Intern

Undergraduate Research

• 8/25-present: Undergraduate Research Assistant with Dr. Nizamani, collaborating with UVA to assess spatial layout and posture in smart classrooms using a locally deployed LLM
• 1/25-present: Working with Dr. Cliff Shaffer on OpenDSA, maintaining codebase for CS education e-textbook infrastructure used at dozens of universities; advising on course content, programming assignments, and policies. Also serving as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant (UTA) for CS 3114 (Data Structures & Algorithms)

Favorite thing about VT?

The ability to conduct real, multidisciplinary research.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

As a freshman, I wish I knew about IDPro (Interdisciplinary Projects at Virginia Tech). They offer a wide variety of multidisciplinary, hands on research projects for undergraduates.

Fun Fact

In my free time, I love to scuba dive & ski!

Olivia Chan

Long Island, NY
Computer Science

Professional/Student Organizations

• Club Jump Rope at Virginia Tech
• SASE

CEED Participation?

• Hypatia -> Studio Training UCL -> Design Challenge CL -> Senior GLT -> CEED GTA
• WPW Committee Member

Favorite thing about VT?

I love the beautiful campus and the abundance of resources the College of Engineering have.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

It may seem overwhelming, with all the change of being away from home, but soon enough, VT will become your home away from home.

Fun Fact

I have a twin brother who also goes to Virginia Tech.

Owen McCaffrey

Middletown, NJ
Aerospace Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• Theta Chi
• NASA SLVT

Internships/Co-Ops

Innovative Defense Technologies, Reliance Test and Technology

Favorite thing about VT?

My favorite thing about the Virginia Tech College of Engineering is the extra activities that make the community more like a family, including the college of engineering volleyball and Engineers-Ball.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I were more familiar with the other activities included at VT, like E-ball, cheesy nights, and others.

Fun Fact

I played hockey in highschool!

Quinn Anderson

Chicago, IL
Computer Science

Professional/Student Organizations

• Student Alumni Association
• Campus Kitchen
• FLEX

CEED Participation?

Peer Mentorship Program

Internships/Co-Ops

Captech Internship

Undergraduate Research

Hume Center

Favorite thing about VT?

Football games are so much fun and definitely my favorite, but also the ability to do so many outdoors activities, especially the hikes which are beautiful.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Bring a bike to campus. I didn't have one at first, but once I got it my sophomore year I ended up using it a ton to get around campus.

Fun Fact

I play the bagpipes.

Quinn McIver

Westminster, MD
Aerospace Engineering (4+1 Accelerated Masters) 

Professional/Student Organizations

• Wind Turbine Team
• The Marching Virginians

Internships/Co-Ops

Whisper Aero, most recently a Mechanical Engineering intern, but was also and R&D Manufacturing intern summer 2024.

Favorite thing about VT?

The community and the alumni network.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Just how amazing VT engineering is.

Fun Fact

I’m working on my pilots licenses and have over 60 hours in a Cessna 172!

Riley Nichols

Cohasset, MA
Industrial and Systems Engineering (Economics Minor) 

Professional/Student Organizations

• Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers
• Consulting Group at Virginia Tech
• Rince Tech

CEED Participation?

Peer Mentorship Program

Internships/Co-Ops

• Fall 2024 Data Analyst Co-Op at Keurig Dr. Pepper
• Summer 2025 Supply Chain Analyst Intern at Keurig Dr. Pepper

Favorite thing about VT?

The people and the supportive atmosphere, everyone wants each other to succeed.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I had known more about the general engineering major all engineers start out in.

Fun Fact

I have been a competitive Irish dancer for 17 years!

Riley Ruiz

Long Beach Island, NJ
Mechanical Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• Quality of Life + Student Chapter (QL+)
• Theme Park Engineering Design
• Mechanical Engineering Ambassador

Internships/Co-Ops

• Volvo Trucks North America - Technical Continuous Improvement Intern
• Coty - Process Engineering Intern

Undergraduate Research

Therapeutic Ultrasound Lab.

Favorite thing about VT?

I love the beautiful nature our campus is surrounded by.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Bring clothes for all seasons, the weather is very unpredictable.

Fun Fact

I live on the bay and I have my boating license!

Sarah Jacobs

Bluefield, VA
Aerospace Engineering (International Business Minor) 

Professional/Student Organizations

• AIAA
• SWE
• SEC
• SLVT

CEED Participation?

Hypatia

Internship/Co-Op

• NASA
• Virginia Space Grant Consortium

Undergraduate Research

English to Engineering E2E.

Favorite thing about VT?

The Virginia tech community that always supports each other!

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I would have known more about the variety of opportunities and organizations offered at VT.

Fun Fact

I love hiking!

Sarina Krishnaswamy

Boston, MA
Materials Science Engineering 

Professional/Student Organizations

• Alpha Omega Epsilon
• Materials Engineering Professional Society
• Materials Science and Engineering Ambassador

CEED Participation?

Hypatia

Internships/Co-Ops

Currently at Kraft Heinz in Chicago, IL as an R&D packaging co-op!

Undergraduate Research

Work in a bio-based polymer lab based in Holden.

Favorite thing about VT?

My favorite thing about my time here at VT are all the friends I have made who have become my biggest support system throughout engineering and my college experience.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

Your peers and teachers will be your biggest support system for classes, so don't be afraid to reach out for help if you need it.

Fun Fact

I have traveled to 16 countries and most recently spent five weeks in Tanzania!

Shefali Verma

Fairfax, VA 
Civil and Environmental Engineering (Math, Green Engineering, Asian Studies Minors)

Professional/Student Organizations

• ASCE
• CEED
• Concrete for Kids

CEED Participation?

• Dean's Team
• C-Tech^2

Internships/Co-Ops

Whitman, Requardt, & Associates

Undergraduate Research

Atmospheric Chemistry Lab at VT

Favorite thing about VT?

I love the different opportunities the college offer for students to get involved on campus and get hands on experience to help them understand the applications of their majors.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

There are so many helpful resources to help you navigate your way in and through college, take advantage of them!

Fun Fact

Every year I go to an apricot farm and make 30 bottles of jam.

Sophia Gwaltney

Houston, TX
Mining Engineering (Geoscience Minor)

Professional/Student Organizations

• Women in Mining
• Alpha Delta Pi
• Kappa Theta Pi
• Burkhart Mining Society

CEED Participation?

Women in Mining

Internships/Co-Ops

Core natural resources, Coal mine in West Virginia

Favorite thing about VT?

I love COE because I was able to leave the major I thought was for me and pursue a passion i never knew I had.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I was more aware of the weather, I showed up without a coat.

Fun Fact

I lived in Italy for 3 months in middle school to attend opera school!

Sophie Diccox

Herndon, VA
Mechanical Engineering

Professional/Student Organizations

• VT Solarcar
• SWE
• Survivor Club

CEED Participation?

Peer Mentorship Program

Favorite thing about VT?

I love how pretty the campus is year round!

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

To take advantage of all the student resources!

Fun Fact

I like to play badminton!

Tyler Grogan

Parkton, MD
Civil Engineering (Army ROTC)

Professional/Student Organizations

• Society of American Military Engineers
• Phi Kappa Sigma

CEED Participation?

Dean's Team

Internships/Co-Ops

Field Engineer Intern at Keller North America

Favorite thing about VT?

Favorite thing about VT is the location in the mountains.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

How you don’t have to take classes in any specific order.

Fun Fact

I can wiggle my ears.

Vrinda Bichhoria

India
Double Major in Computer Science & Mathematics 

Professional/Student Organizations

CISO - Council of International Students Organization

CEED Participation?

Galipatia

Favorite thing about VT?

I like the people here, getting to know more people and different culture. Being able to be myself is also what I love here, because no one has any expectations.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

I wish I had known how many opportunities and organizations there are on campus — it would’ve helped me get involved earlier.

Fun Fact

I did shooting for 2 years. I love math and see it as a puzzle rather than a subject.

Zara Kidwell

McLean, VA
Computer Science (Math Minor)

Professional/Student Organization

• InspireFly Design Team
• College Mentors for Kids
• Engineering Volleyball League

CEED Participation?

Women's Preview Weekend Planning Committee

Favorite thing about VT?

We have a really great community! You can find your niche while still feeling supported by the Virginia Tech community as a whole.

Something you wish you had known applying to/coming to VT?

You have to advocate for yourself! If you think there was an issue with an assignment or a grade or if you need help or an extension, it's on you to reach out and continue to follow up with your teachers. Teachers are more understanding than you think.

Fun Fact

My goal is to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks