Engineering Ambassadors

Hey future Vols!

My name is Ryan Carnine, and I’m a junior studying chemical engineering. I’m originally from Rocklin, CA, a suburb about thirty minutes from Sacramento. Back home, I enjoy spending time on the lake, fishing, and hanging out with friends. Moving to Knoxville has been such an exciting change, and even though it’s far from home, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT) community has made me feel right at ease.

Outside of school, I enjoy photography, spending time with friends, and reading the occasional book. My favorite UT experience by far has to be watching football in Neyland Stadium—it’s an atmosphere like no other!

I’ve also gotten involved on campus through “The Walk,” a college-age Christian ministry, and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE). Both have helped me meet new people, grow as a person, and really find my place here at UT.

This past summer, I had the opportunity to do research at UCLA through the SURE@UCLA program, sponsored by Amazon. Under Assistant Professor Jennifer Wilson, I worked on a project focused on drug targets, protein-protein interactions, and drug databases. My partner and I tested the validity of PathFX, an algorithm designed to predict drug side effects. It was an incredible experience where I learned so much about engineering, research, and my own interests.

I’m so excited to share all the reasons I love UT with future Vols like you! If you ever have questions about chemical engineering, student life, classes, or opportunities here, feel free to reach out. Hope to see you soon on Rocky Top—Go Vols!

My name is Hunter Cronk. I’m from Erie, Pennsylvania, and am a junior studying mechanical engineering. I originally started to look at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT) when I came down on a college visit and absolutely fell in love with the campus and the community that comes with it. During my time so far in Tennessee, I have enjoyed going to sporting events, concerts, and exploring Knoxville.

Apart from being involved with the TCE Ambassadors, I serve as a mentor for the Wood Mentorship Program, which helps acclimate freshmen and transfer students to campus during their first semester. I am also a student worker in the TCE Dean’s suite. Outside of school, I enjoy golfing, watching football, hanging out with friends, and relaxing.

Over the past summer, I interned at Accudyn, a plastic injection company in Erie, Pennsylvania. I worked as a Mold and Engineering Intern, where I gained valuable knowledge regarding the manufacturing and engineering industry.

Hi future Vols!

I’m Nora, and I’m a senior graduating in chemical engineering. I’m originally from middle Tennessee. Knoxville has been a new and exciting place that I have loved living in so far! On top of that, the atmosphere at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT) has made me find such a good home and community here. I especially love Tennessee game days and exploring the Smoky Mountains!

Outside of homework, I’m involved in several organizations on and around campus. I lived in the Engage LLC or engineering living and learning community my freshman year where I got to make so many amazing friends! I am now heavily involved in Alpha Omega Epsilon which is a social and professional sorority for women and underrepresented genders in STEM majors. In A.O.E, I get to meet so many amazing people in various STEM majors and also do fun activities! I also enjoy running, reading, and trying new coffee shops around Knoxville.

On the professional side of school, I have had the privilege of completing two internships, both obtained through TCE’s Engineering Professional Practice’s STEM Expo. I first got to work for Eastman in Kingsport, TN, as a Process Improvement Engineering Intern. There I got to learn about how a chemical plant is run and work on optimizing their process control systems. After Eastman, I obtained an internship with Keurig Dr Pepper at one of their K-cup manufacturing plants here in Knoxville as a quality engineering intern. My internship consists of optimizing the quality control systems and improving production lines to reduce customer complaints. These have both helped me learn how to problem solve in real-life situations, learn what it truly means to be a part of a team, and learn from mentors the decisions and considerations that progress a project.

While my time at UT is wrapping up, I am more than grateful for all the experiences I’ve had here and cannot imagine myself at any other school. Good luck with your decisions! Feel free to email me with any questions! And, of course, go Vols!!

Hi! My name is Anna Day, and I am a senior majoring in biomedical engineering with a minor in integrated business and engineering. I am so excited to serve as an Engineering Ambassador!

I’m from Littleton, Colorado, and coming to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT) has been such a rewarding experience, especially being so far from home. From the moment I stepped on campus, I could tell there was something special about UT, and it didn’t take long for it to feel like home.

During my time here, I’ve gotten involved in several organizations that have really shaped my college experience. I’m a member of Alpha Delta Pi, Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES), the club tennis team, and more. Being part of these communities has given me such an amazing balance of academics, leadership, and fun, while also connecting me with some of my closest friends.

I’ve always been interested in the medical field, but I found my passion for biomedical engineering through my love for problem-solving and wanting to make a real impact on patients’ lives. Through my coursework and research experiences, I’ve discovered a strong interest in the medical device field, especially in pursuing a career as a clinical specialist where I can combine both technical knowledge and patient care.

Outside of school and organizations, I love spending time with my friends, being outdoors, and enjoying everything Knoxville has to offer. Whether it’s a busy week or a relaxing weekend, there’s always something to do here.

I’m so grateful to call UT and the Tickle College of Engineering home. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to meet you on Rocky Top!

Go Vols!

Hey future Vols!

I am a fourth year student studying industrial engineering with a minor in computer science!

I actually grew up Knoxville from 3rd–10th grade, and as soon as I left, I knew I needed to come back for college. The culture in Knoxville and on campus is one unlike any other place I have been in the absolute best way possible. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is a big school, but with Tickle, it can still have a small school feel where you will always feel supported.

Probably like some of you, I realized I loved math and science, so I decided I wanted to be an engineer. I wasn’t sure what type of engineering would be right for me, and I picked CS. I had never coded before my freshman year of college, but with the detailed introductory level classes that did not matter, and with hard work and the help of some TAs and dedicated professors I have gotten to where I am today! Eventually after my internship at Southern Company I realized I wanted to do more hands-on engineering so I switched to IE my junior year.

Outside of class, I am involved in my STEM professional and social sorority Alpha Omega Epsilon as the current president, and I’ve been a Teacher’s Assistant and a Grader for several semesters. In my free time, you can probably find me line dancing, planning my next travel opportunity, or playing guitar!

I have put my time cultivating spaces where I feel like I belong, and college has given me the best opportunities in my life thus far. I hope you can also find comfort in these words and know that what you put into your experience is what you will get back, so go with the place that feels like home and then make it happen.

Please reach out with any questions or concerns! Go Vols!

Hey Future Vols!

My name is Leah Haggitt, and I am majoring in civil engineering and minoring in graphic design studies. Within civil engineering, I am interested in water resources engineering and geotechnical engineering. I plan on getting my master’s degree in water resources engineering and going to work in stormwater management and flood planning.

Other than being a TCE Ambassador, I am an Undergraduate Research Assistant for the Tennessee Water Resources Research Center, I am a YoungLife leader at a local Knoxville high school, and I work part time for AtkinsRealis.

If you have any questions about anything feel free to reach out, I would love to talk!

Go Vols!!

I am a senior in mechanical engineering. Outside of ambassadors, I am involved in Greek life , SWE, and work in the TCE dean suite. I join random clubs and love to be out in nature. I love sports ( GO VOLS! ) and trying new activities.

Hey Future Vols!

My name is Trinity Holmes and I am from the soulful city of Memphis, located on the opposite side of Tennessee! I am a biomedical engineering major.

Originally, I had always dreamed of pursuing a career in the medical field, but I had a growing interest in engineering. My love for biomedical engineering developed after attending many engineering camps and touring a biomedical facility. I instantly fell in love with the idea of being able to pursue a career that combined two interests of mine.

Being six hours away from home, I was extremely nervous about attending such a large school. I can truly say getting involved on campus really helped make UT feel like home. Everything from academics to campus events to organizations and clubs have truly helped me grow and find some of my best friends. On campus, I am involved in organizations like Society of Women Engineers (SWE), National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Multicultural Enhancement for the University of Tennessee (ME4UT), Upper Room Discussions, and the Basic Needs Service Team.

I’m very grateful to have a position as an Engineering Ambassador and I can’t wait to meet so many of you on Rocky Top! If you have any questions about engineering, campus involvement, or anything else feel free to contact me!

Go Vols!

Hi future Volunteers!

I am Patrick Holecek, and I am currently a junior pursuing a major in biosystems engineering and a minor in reliability and maintainability engineering. My love for the outdoors on top of science and engineering led me to becoming a Biosystems Engineer. Being an engineering student at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT) has taught me how to overcome many of life’s hurdles. The community at UT is very welcoming and is always helping me succeed.

Outside of being an engineering student and an ambassador, you can find me in the gym working out, playing pickleball or basketball, or on a local hike with my friends. I love being active outdoors, so please reach out to me for any suggestions in the Knoxville area (there are plenty!).

I grew up in Knoxville and a huge vols fan, so UT has been in my heart for as long as I can remember. Since I was a kid going to gameday every Saturday in the fall, I fell in love with the beauty of The Hill and The Tickle College of Engineering, I’m sure you will, too! Thank you for considering Rocky Top as your future home, and I look forward to showing you around the campus!

Go Vols!

Hey future Vols!

My name is Valeria Huarote-Cupe, and I am an industrial and systems engineering student at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT). I’m originally from Franklin, TN, and it’s such an honor to serve as an Ambassador for the Tickle College of Engineering!

UT has given me so many opportunities to grow academically, professionally, and personally. I’ve been involved in organizations like the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), where I now serve as chapter president, and I’ve gained hands-on experience through my engineering co-op with Keurig Dr Pepper here in Knoxville.

When I first considered engineering, I thought it would be intimidating and overwhelming, but UT has shown me the opposite. The Tickle College of Engineering feels like home, with supportive professors, endless resources, and a community that celebrates your passions and goals.

Coming to UT was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I’ve built lifelong friendships, taken on leadership roles, and developed a strong foundation for my future career. If you have any questions about TCE or life at UT, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’d love to help in any way I can!

I can’t wait to see you on Rocky Top!

Hey Future Vols!

My name is Brennan Hume. I am from Monument, Colorado, and I am a junior here at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT) studying chemical engineering with a concentration in biomolecular engineering, as well as a minor in math. I am so excited to meet you, and I absolutely love everything Orange and everything Tennessee! I know that choosing where to go to college is a big decision, and I would love to guide you through it.

When I was choosing where to go to college, I knew that I wanted to go out of state. I began touring colleges and was feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to go until I took a tour of UT. During the tour, a student yelled, “Go Vols,” which was returned by the tour guides, and immediately, I knew where I belonged.

Academics are important when choosing a new school, and UT excels at them. Our award-winning engineering program has provided me with so many opportunities to learn new skills and make new connections. From building projects to incorporate engineering principles to doing cutting-edge undergraduate research, I have had endless opportunities to pursue my goals. I am part of the Cook Grand Challenge honors program, which has encouraged me to work hard and has allowed me to take classes with many hard-working and self-driving people.

My involvement in the honors program has also let me have unique experiences, such as a tour of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Extracurricular activities are a great way to meet new people and make a big community a little bit smaller. I am involved in several of these activities here on campus. I am a proud member of Delta Tau Delta, a social fraternity here on campus. I am also involved in the UT Crew Club and Engineers in Medicine. All of these communities have helped me make friends and form long-lasting relationships that I will treasure for the rest of my life.

Choosing UT was one of the best decisions I have made, and I can’t wait to guide you around our campus. I look forward to seeing you on Rocky Top!

Hey future Vols!

My name is Kohen Kilburn, and I am a sophomore majoring in mechanical engineering with a minor in my scholarship curriculum: Haslam Leadership Scholars.

I grew up in Chattanooga and attended the McCallie School. When it was time to apply to college, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT) became a great option for me as I looked into their incredible engineering program and honors programs. After getting a spot in the Haslam Leadership Scholars program, I committed and chose UT!

Outside of serving as an ambassador, I work with my scholarship program, am Vice President on the Club Ultimate Frisbee team, and am beginning undergraduate assistant work for a professor developing new technologies. UT also allowed me to study abroad in Vietnam and Cambodia last summer.

I’ve grown to love the study of engineering and learning how things work. For prospective students nervous about the transition to college, feel free to ask me any questions!

Go Vols!

I am a junior in biomedical engineering with a neuroscience minor! I am involved in Research Assistant Professor Steven Newby’s research lab in collaboration with the UT Vet School doing undergraduate research with cell culture and stem cell regeneration. This past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to work at UNC Chapel Hill in the Dayton Lab researching focused ultrasound devices. After undergrad, I plan to go to grad school to obtain my PhD.

I am a part of Society of Women Engineers, the National Society of Leadership and Success, as well as the Chancellor’s Honors Program here at UT. Besides academics, I am a member of Greek Life and am in Chi Omega, and am very involved in VolCatholic! I love anything outdoors—swimming, hiking, tanning, walking. I always make time for friends throughout the business of weeks, and spending football games with them are one of the biggest highlights of my semester! Go Vols!

Hi, my name is Ava and I’m majoring in civil engineering. I’m from Cincinnati, Ohio, which is about four hours away from Knoxville.

As well as being an ambassador, I enjoy taking part in American Society of Civil Engineers and being a Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority member.

My interests in civil engineering include geotech, construction, and transportation. I had a construction materials and geotechnical services internship this summer in Cincinnati. I did a lot of field work which I really enjoyed. Getting to learn more about civil in a hands on way was an extremely beneficial experience.

My experience in Tickle has been amazing, and I’m super excited to show future students what their life could be like as an engineering vol!

Hey future Vols!

My name is Klarissa Martinez, and I am a junior studying mechanical engineering with a minor in biomedical engineering! I’m passionate about building connections, mentoring others, and helping students feel at home on campus.

I am from Memphis, TN, and have moved throughout the surrounding areas. Growing up, I was really interested in science and math, so I joined the Math Olympiad in middle school, and it’s been upwards from there! I developed a passion for healthcare, so I became a Certified Nursing Assistant, which enabled me to assist those who couldn’t care for themselves. Because of this, I knew I wanted to pursue biomedical engineering in college.

Coming to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT) was a completely new experience since I had never toured the campus beforehand. I was nervous as an incoming freshman, but I’m so glad I chose UT! Becoming involved on campus has infinitely impacted my time here. I’ve grown into a more outgoing and social person compared to how I was in high school. Clubs and organizations that have contributed to this include the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), Latin American Student Organization (LASO), Alpha Sigma Kappa (a social and STEM sorority), and many more! My passion for guiding students led me to become a Resident Assistant with UT Housing, which has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. Over the summer, I had the amazing opportunity to work for the Tickle College of Engineering as a counselor for incoming freshmen and rising high school sophomores and seniors.

Outside of academics, I love thrifting, watching movies and shows, and spending time with friends and family. As a Tour Guide Ambassador, I’m excited to share what makes UT special and help future Volunteers see how they can thrive here.

Hey future Vols!

My name is Kim Mireles, and I am a senior majoring in industrial engineering with minors in engineering management and business administration! I am from Fayetteville, TN, which is a small town outside of Huntsville, AL. Growing up near Huntsville (home to NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and the Redstone Arsenal), I developed a curiosity for space and engineering at a very young age. I’ve known I wanted to be an engineer since I was 5, when my school had several NASA engineers at our career day!

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville immediately felt like home when I stepped onto campus. I first visited with my high school for Engineers Day, and everyone I talked to was so passionate about their studies and experiences! I chose to study Industrial Engineering because it allows me to explore a variety of different fields while allowing me to analyze different processes and work towards constant improvement.

In addition to being a TCE Ambassador, I am Vice President for the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers, and am a member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. I am also an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant for two different IE classes. In terms of industry experience, I completed an internship at Avient Corporation as a Quality Intern in 2024, and recently completed an internship this summer with PepsiCo as a Supply Chain Intern. Although these experiences were very different, I loved being able to explore the different paths that Industrial Engineering could take me.

Outside of school, I love hiking, watercolor painting, and cheering on the Vols! Becoming a Vol was the best decision I could have ever made! This place and the people are the easiest to fall in love with, and I know Knoxville will always be home sweet home to me. If you have any questions, please reach out! I hope to see you soon, and as always, GO VOLS!

Hey future vols!

My name is Jackson Say, and I am currently a junior in mechanical engineering from Columbus, Ohio.

In my time on Rocky Top, I have found that the Tickle College of Engineering has done an incredible job helping prepare me for professional experience. Through the connections I’ve made at school, I had the opportunity to spend this past summer as an intern at Domtar’s paper mill in Kingsport, Tennessee. This experience taught me a ton about the industry side of engineering and I was able to quickly see the benefits of my education.

Besides being an ambassador, I am involved with Engineers Without Borders as well as Photography Club. Additionally, you can always expect to find me at athletic events cheering on the Vols!

In my free time, I am a massive sports fan, spanning just about everything. Additionally, I love to spend time with friends, listen to music, go to concerts, and watch TV shows.

Please reach out to me if you have any questions! I can’t wait to see you here in Knoxville.

Go Vols!

Hi! My name is Aadya Sharma, and I’m a junior studying computer science with a business administration minor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I love blending creativity with technology, whether that’s designing web applications, tutoring students in programming, or building AI-powered projects like a movie recommendation app. Professionally, I’ve worked as a Software Programmer at the Tennessee Reading Research Center and as a Software Engineering Intern at the Center for Global Engagement.

Outside of school and work, I try to live life with curiosity and adventure. I’m a certified scuba diver, which I love doing! Traveling and experiencing new cultures is one of my favorite ways to learn, and I enjoy connecting those experiences back to my academic and personal growth. Whether it’s coding, teaching, or exploring into someplace new, I’m always excited to keep learning and share that passion with others.

Hey Future Vols!

My name is Sanya Shrivastava, and I’m from Franklin, TN. I am currently a senior pursuing a major in computer science along with double minors in business and data science.

Aside from being a Tickle College of Engineering Ambassador, I am a part of the Chancellor’s Honors Program, Cook Grand Challenge Honors Program, NAE Grand Scholars Program, and the Volunteer Impact Academy. Throughout my time at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville(UT), I have been able to get involved in a variety of organizations on campus. I am a part of the Engage Leadership Team as a mentor to incoming engineers. I have been able to gain experience working in a couple of undergraduate research positions as well. These programs have given me the chance to expand my interests and grow my skillset.

TCE provides students with numerous opportunities and resources that allow you to grow professionally, academically, and socially. I have interned with Deloitte each summer throughout college, where I worked on projects focused on client-based cross-business case simulations and gained project-based experiences in which I focused more on Business Technology Consulting. Throughout all of this, I have been able to get personalized mentorship and professional training.

So far, my favorite part about UT and TCE have been the abundance of everything! When I say everything, I really do mean everything. No matter what you are interested in, there will always be a way for you to get involved around campus and find something that is a perfect fit for you!

I have really enjoyed my time here and would love to make sure that you do too! If you have any questions or concerns about anything, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I would be more than happy to help you!

I hope to see you all around on Rocky Top in the future.

Go Vols 🙂

Hi Future Vols!

Hi future Vols! My name is Ellyott Siffring, and I am a sophomore majoring in nuclear engineering with a minor in Public Policy Analytics. I am originally from Windsor, Colorado (right outside of Fort Collins) and while I love CO, I was ready for a new adventure. The minute I stepped on Tennessee’s campus, I fell in love with the Volunteer spirit. Now, I am so excited to share with prospective students how I found my home here.

Within engineering, I participate in Women in Nuclear, where I serve as Treasurer, and Society of Women in Engineering in the SWEeties mentoring program. I also work as an undergraduate teaching assistant in our Engineering Fundamentals program. I cannot say enough about our Engineering Fundamentals program because it is what gave me the confidence to stick with engineering! I also serve as an ambassador for our nuclear department.
Outside of engineering, I am an active member of my sorority Alpha Omicron Pi and the Salt Company campus ministry.

Go Vols!

Hey future Vols!

My name is Madison (Maddi) Smith, and I am a senior in biomedical engineering, as well as a member of the Cook Grand Challenge Honors Program and Tau Beta Pi.

I grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada, and ever since I stepped foot on Rocky Top, I felt like I belonged on campus. When I took a campus tour as a prospective student, my tour guides showed me what it meant to be a vol, thus driving my decision to come to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT) and eventually become an Engineering Ambassador.

Aside from being a TCE ambassador, I play piccolo in the Pride of the Southland Band and Basketball Pep Band while working as a Band Librarian. I previously completed and presented research with the Upper Limb Assist Lab here at UT, analyzing medical imaging for orthopedics and rehabilitation. This past spring, I worked as an engineering intern at DeRoyal Industries to optimize patient safety devices while verifying products through statistical analysis.

I have been interested in STEM my whole life. It started with visiting the local children’s museum as a little kid, to being involved in the Future City Competition throughout middle school, and finally being in math and science honor societies in high school. I originally wanted to go into the healthcare field, but I realized I was more interested in the way medical devices worked and finding solutions to problems doctors have.

Over the course of my time in the Tickle College of Engineering, I have created such a great community through classes, band, research, and engineering ambassadors. Community-based class learning allowed me to make numerous friends (in various majors) that I can study or have a good time with. In addition to the students, the professors and staff are great resources and genuinely care about your success in and out of class.

I’m very grateful to have a position as an Engineering Ambassador for the TCE and I love meeting so many new people and prospective engineering students on Rocky Top! It can be intimidating coming to a large college as an incoming freshman, but we’re always happy to answer your questions about UT!

Go Vols!

Hey future Vols!

My name is Thaddaeus Smith, and I am a junior in electrical engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT), concentrating in Power & Energy Systems. I’m a non-traditional and a transfer student, having earned my Associate’s degree from Pellissippi State before coming to UT. As someone who grew up in Knoxville, being a Volunteer has always felt like the ultimate goal. I’ve been in love with this campus, its people, and its culture for as long as I can remember.

At UT, I’ve gotten involved in organizations that have enriched my academic and personal journey. I serve as the Event Manager for Engineering Youth Education, where I help plan outreach programs that inspire the next generation of engineers. I’m also an active member of the Student Space Technology Association (SSTA) a.k.a. “UT’s Rocket Club,” which gives me the chance to explore my passion for innovation alongside some amazing peers. When I’m not focused on classes or student organizations, you’ll often find me working on hands-on projects, 3D printing designs for my Etsy shop, tinkering with circuits, or experimenting with new builds. Engineering has been the perfect way for me to combine my creativity with my love of problem solving. I used to build automotive engines for fun growing up.

Outside of school, I work as the Corporate Training Manager for Kennedy Concepts, a multi-restaurant hospitality group. In this role, I create structured training systems, technical documentation, and bilingual (English-Spanish) resources to improve efficiency across multiple brands. This experience has strengthened my skills in project management, communication, and adaptability, while fueling my passion for building systems that help people succeed.

UT’s Tickle College of Engineering has been an amazing place to grow not just as a student, but as a leader, teammate, and community member. As an Engineering Ambassador, I look forward to connecting with prospective students like you! Sharing my journey, and showing how engineering blends creativity, problem-solving, and impact. My ultimate goal is to contribute to innovative energy solutions that power a sustainable and technologically advanced future.

I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here and can’t wait to share that experience with you and with others. If you ever have questions or just want to learn more about what life is like at Rocky Top, feel free to reach out!

Hi future Vols!

My name is Riley Stewart, and I am a junior majoring in nuclear engineering!

I am from a small town in northern Maryland called Jarrettsville that is quite literally in the middle of nowhere but because of this, I developed a love for all things outdoors! I love to hike, go on walks, sightsee, and play sports!

Outside of being an ambassador, I also hold positions as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant for Engineering Fundamentals and an Engineering Study Center Peer Learning Assistant! Additionally, I am on the executive board for the Society of Women Engineers as well as the Women in Nuclear student organization. I am truly grateful to be involved in such amazing organizations here on campus!

I have recently been awarded the Department of Defense SMART Scholarship that covers my full cost of tuition along with guaranteed summer internships at my selected facility. I will be spending my next few summers in Honolulu, Hawaii interning at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility working to advance our current fleet of Naval nuclear submarines. I truly believe that my time as a student at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT) helped me receive this scholarship!

I can confidently say that I have found my home here on Rocky Top and I am so excited to be able to show/tell prospective students about why UT is home sweet home to me!

Go Vols!

Hi I’m Lexi, and I’m originally from Southern California, but this past summer, my family relocated to Columbia, TN! In my free time I love to sew, hangout with my friends and family, and go on new adventures! I’m so excited to pursue a career in engineering and see where the wind takes me after I graduate this spring! GO VOLS!!

Hi future Vols!

My name is Bailey Tate, and I am a junior in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) with minors in honors leadership studies and engineering management. I decided on ISE because I love problem-solving and the way that industrial engineering allows you to zoom out and look at the bigger picture. I also felt that it gave me the most options for what I wanted to do as a career.

In addition to being a TCE ambassador, I try to be as involved on campus as I can be without overwhelming myself. I’m am the President Elect of the Society of Women Engineers, UT Chapter, and am so honored to serve our amazing members. I’m also a member of Tau Beta Pi (an engineering honors society), Alpha Pi Mu (ISE honors society), and the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers. I’m a student in the Honors Leadership Program, where we work on developing into effective and compassionate leaders. All of these have given me so many amazing opportunities and have allowed me to meet my closest friends. Outside of school, I am an avid reader, passionate fan of Formula One, and yoga teacher.

I have had the opportunity to work as a Supply Network Operations Intern for P&G last summer in Moreno Valley, CA, and am so excited to be returning to P&G next summer. I’ve also interned at Garden Street Communities and for the American Society of Quality, both in Destin Florida. Additionally, I participated in the faculty lead ISE study abroad trip to Florence, Italy.

Deciding to attend UT is one of the best decisions I have ever made. It is a school where I feel at home and safe, not only with my friends but with the amazing professors and staff. The Tickle College of Engineering is like a big family, and I hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you into it!

Hey Future Vols!

My name is Ava Wallace, and I am a senior majoring in biomedical engineering. I am also a member of both the Chancellors Honors Program and Cook Grand Challenge Honors Program. I am so excited to serve as an Engineering Ambassador!

I grew up in a small town an hour north of Chicago, about nine hours away from Knoxville. I am involved with many of the amazing organizations offered at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT), like the Pride of the Southland Marching Band, Football and Basketball Pep Bands, and even our rock climbing club. If I’m not doing any of those things, you can find me watching a movie or doing something outdoors!

While I have always been very interested in the medical field, I was not always very interested in engineering. When Covid hit and the whole world flipped upside down, I still had no idea what I wanted to do. I watched the medical field struggle through the crisis and decided I wanted to use my skills to help. I had always been good at problem solving and STEM, but it wasn’t until I googled biomedical engineering that I knew this was the field for me.

When I started looking at colleges, I actually didn’t even have UT on my radar. My mom saw a picture of the gorgeous campus and convinced me to visit for a tour. I don’t think I had made it into the student union before I fell in love with campus. Every corner of campus we turned made me feel more and more that this was the place for me.

I’ve loved every single moment of my three years here and I’m so grateful to call Tennessee and TCE home sweet home. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out! I can’t wait to see you on Rocky Top!

Go Vols!

Hello! My name is Arthur Zavala, and I am a senior majoring in materials science and engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT).

I became an Engineering Ambassador because I wanted to give back to the community that has helped me grow both personally and professionally. Through my internship experiences, I’ve gained hands-on experience with process improvement, manufacturing optimization, and materials testing, which has strengthened my passion for engineering problem-solving.

On campus, I’m also involved in the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, where I support first-year students and work on outreach programs to empower fellow students in STEM. I am looking forward to meeting prospective students and sharing what makes the Tickle College of Engineering such a welcoming and exciting place to learn. Outside of academics, I enjoy exploring new cities, playing video games, and connecting with people who share a drive for innovation.

I look forward to welcoming you to campus and helping you discover how UT can support your journey in engineering!

Hi Future Vols!

My name is Michelle Zhong, and I’m a senior majoring in chemical engineering with an honors concentration and a minor in maintainability & reliability engineering. I’m originally from Knoxville, so I was hesitant at first to attend a college so close to home, but I have fallen in love with Rocky Top ever since I’ve been here! In my free time, I love getting outdoors, running, and dabble in pretty much anything creative.

On campus, I’m heavily involved with the Society of Women Engineers, serve as an Ambassador for our Engineering Professional Practice Office, Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honors Society, and have undergraduate research experience in additive manufacturing. I am also involved with the Chancellor’s Honors and Cook Grand Challenge Engineering Honors Program.

Throughout my time here in TCE, I’ve had the privilege of completing an internship with Eastman Chemical Company, co-op with Dow Chemical, and an internship with Procter and Gamble. Having held a variety of roles in and around manufacturing, I’ve really gotten to explore what I’m passionate about, continually growing professionally and personally. Being able to see the principles I learn in class translate into industry has been super illuminating. All of these amazing learning experiences would not be possible without the guidance, support, and encouragement I’ve received while here in the Tickle College of Engineering!

For me, Rocky Top really is “Home sweet home to me” and I hope it can be yours too! If you ever have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I would love to chat with you, and I hope to see you on campus soon!

Go Vols!

Hey there!

My name is Abby Zupanci, and I’m a senior majoring in electrical engineering. I’m from Edwardsville, IL which is just east of St. Louis.

Apart from being an ambassador, I am also a member of the Society of Women Engineers and the cornhole club here at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT). I also enjoy going to football and basketball games, and spending time with my friends and roommates.

My time at UT has also allowed me to gain professional experience. Last year I completed a co-op with DENSO Manufacturing in Maryville, TN with the Tester Design team where I was responsible for aiding in the final assembly and verification of inverters for electric and hybrid vehicles. This past summer I completed an internship with S&C Electric Company in Chicago, IL as part of the Underground Power Hardware team, and primarily worked with reworking parts to improve electrical insulation in metal-enclosed switchgear.

What first drew me to Tennessee was the change in scenery, and what’s made me stay are the connections and memories I have made over the years. I hope you can also one day call UT home, and please feel free to reach out!

Go Vols!