Engineering Ambassadors

Hey, future Vols!

My name is Griffin Barley, and I am a senior in civil engineering here at the University of Tennessee!

I am originally from Leesburg, Virginia, about an hour west of D.C., but I recently moved to Virginia Beach. In my free time, I love to play sports, go to concerts, and be outdoors; hiking and kayaking are among my favorite activities.

I came to UT my senior year of high school on a total whim, but immediately fell in love with the campus, and I couldn’t be happier with the opportunities UT has given me!

Throughout my time at UT, I have tried to get involved in different organizations across campus. I currently am a part of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) where I am a member of the Concrete Canoe and Sustainable Solutions Conference Teams. I also participate in undergraduate research. This has provided me hands on experience relating to structural engineering, with the purpose of investigating structural deformations during earthquake events.

As a way to stay active I compete on intramural sports teams ranging from ultimate frisbee to volleyball. Throughout these experiences I have had the opportunity to take on leadership roles, compete at national levels, and travel across the southeast.

Getting involved brought my engineering college experience to a whole new level. I became more passionate about what I was learning in the classroom and met some of my closest friends.

This past summer, I was blessed with an opportunity to do an internship with Kimley-Horn in Virginia Beach, working on the development services team. Here, I was part of the energy team, which mainly focused on renewable solar energy. I was able to grow as an engineer consultant, building my practice network. I learned a multitude of interpersonal and technical skills and advanced in my understanding of site design and land development. The knowledge from my UT coursework helped me get my foot in the door at my internship. I am grateful for the opportunity to bring back practical skills I learned from my internship that will help me in the classroom.

Being an out-of-state student can seem pretty daunting, but with so many opportunities to get involved, you’ll find your group. My biggest advice would be to try everything––this is your time to experiment and try new things. Some things might not work out, but here at UT, you have the chance to try things you might never have thought possible.

I have loved my experience here at UT and want to share that with you! If you have any questions about TCE, engineering, campus life, myself, or anything else that might pop up, please reach out, I’d love to hear from you!

I hope to see y’all on campus soon!

Go Vols!

Hey future vols!

My name is Dalton Bone, and I am a senior currently pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering. I am from Union City, TN which is a very small town located in Northwest Tennessee. I spent most of my time growing up playing baseball and basketball. I also really enjoy hiking and fishing whenever I get the chance! I am also a part of the National Society of Leadership and Success here at UT. I served as the President last year and I am the current advisor for the chapter.

This past summer I completed my second internship working at Siemens Digital Industries in Detroit, MI. Siemens Digital Industries is a leader in industrial automation and digitalization. They work with customers to drive digital transformation in manufacturing and process industries. I worked on their pre-sales team which is about 50% technical and 50% customer facing work. I got to work with Siemens software such as NX and Plant Simulation to help update current plant models and utilize some Terrestrial Scanning Technology to validate positions for these models. If this at all interest you please reach out and I would love to talk more!

My past three years here at UT have been some of the best years of my life. Being part of the Tickle College of Engineering has allowed me to meet so many new people and build relationships that will last a lifetime. Although I am an in-state student, traveling five hours across the state was very nerve wracking to me initially. However, within the first week I felt right at home here at UT thanks to all the welcoming faculty, staff, and students I met. The opportunities at UT are endless and I am confident that everyone can find something that is right for them. The Tickle College of Engineering has been one of my favorite experiences of college, and I am so excited for the remaining year I have left at UT.

Please contact me with any questions you may have! I cannot wait to hopefully see y’all here on Rocky Top. Go Vols!

Hi future Vols!

My name is Kenzie Brogan, and I’m currently a sophomore majoring in mechanical engineering with an honors concentration. I’m from Cincinnati, Ohio, which is about four hours away from Knoxville. In my free time I enjoy reading a good book, trying new restaurants, or just spending some quality time with my best friends.

When it came time for me to start looking at colleges, I was nervous and unsure of exactly what I wanted in a school. I toured here at UT during my senior year of high school, and after that I just knew that I had to be a Vol. I absolutely fell in love with the campus, the atmosphere, and everything else that this school has to offer.

Since making the decision to come to UT, I’ve had so many amazing experiences that have helped me to grow both personally and academically. I’m a member of the university’s Chancellor’s Honors Program as well as the Tickle College of Engineering’s Cook Grand Challenge Honors Program. As a part of these two programs, I have been challenged in my classes every day, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to rise to the occasion and go above and beyond to prepare myself to take on the challenges I will face as an engineer after I graduate. Beyond these two programs, I am also involved with the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), which has been a major source of support and professional growth for me.

Here on Rocky Top, I have found so much more than just a place to learn and grow. I have found a community where I belong and continue to thrive every single day. I have made friendships here that will last a lifetime, and I couldn’t be more grateful for all that this school has given me. Please feel free to reach out to me with any of your questions, I’m always happy to help! I can’t wait for you to start your journey on Rocky Top!

Hey Future Vols!

My name is Grace Carey and I am a sophomore from outside of Chicago. In my free time I love spending time with my friends and family, going on walks and runs, and of course attending as many UT sporting events as possible.

During my freshman year, I took a lot of the amazing clubs UT has to offer for granted and am looking forward to being much more involved this year. I am currently planning on being a TA for Engineering Fundamentals this Fall and am hoping to join some pre-health organizations as well.

I am currently studying on the pre-med track in biomedical engineering. I love UT so much from all the amazing opportunities it has given me to develop in my academic career and personally. Tennessee has truly empowered me as a woman in engineering and has been right there to support me every step of the way. The professors and TAs in all of my classes have been so supportive and understanding with any struggles I may have had and have always led me to success. The staff truly looks out for their students and wants to see everyone succeed.

I chose UT because of the amazing positive energy on campus from the students and the faculty. UT is truly the definition of school spirit, whether it be game days or Big Orange Fridays there is never a lack of orange. Everyone here is truly so proud to be a Vol. I am so excited to show everyone why I love Rocky Top and why more people should call it their home sweet home! Can’t wait to see you all on Rocky Top!

Go Vols!

Hey future Vols!

My name is Braden Copley, and I am currently a junior majoring in Nuclear Engineering.

I am from Rutledge, Tennessee, which is about 40 minutes from Knoxville. In my free time I enjoy playing golf, disc golf, spending time with friends, or just doing absolutely nothing.

Alongside being an ambassador, I am also a UTA (Undergraduate Teaching Assistant) for the engineering fundamentals courses here at UT. Through this, I am able to help fellow engineering students get through their schoolwork the same way fellow peers helped me my first year. I am also a part of the American Nuclear Society chapter here at UT. This has allowed me to connect with many leaders and innovators in the world of nuclear engineering, and has helped me propel my career in the field.

Growing up in Tennessee, I have always been around the amazing atmosphere and environment of UT. Whether it be from going to sporting events, concerts, or any other special event, UT has been home to many childhood memories for me.

In addition, pursuing a nuclear engineering degree meant that I wanted to go to a school that had a top ranked nuclear engineering program and a close proximity to a national laboratory. Luckily for me, UT checked both of those boxes with most of the professors in the Department of Nuclear Engineering having experience working at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. So, when it came to deciding where to go to college, UT was the only option for me.

I can still remember the cheers of the very first football game I ever went to as a kid. UT has always been my dream school, and after my first few semesters, it definitely has felt like a dream. I was very anxious about “fitting in” to the college lifestyle my freshman year, but I now have a great group of friends that can help make this huge university feel like a small town at times. I also was very nervous about whether or not I had what it took to become an engineer. However, the professors, advisors, tutors, and other amazing staff have helped me all along my college journey and truly seem like they care about the success of their students.

There are bountiful opportunities and resources to help you succeed in whatever paths you take here at UT. The University of Tennessee has always been home sweet home to me, and I would love to see you call it home too!

Go Vols!

I am a mechanical engineering major from Erie, Pennsylvania. I enjoy golfing, playing basketball, and video games. I love hanging out with friends and going to sporting events. I’m excited to meet new people and can’t wait to give tours.

Hey future Volunteers!

My name is Nora Daugherty and I am a junior in chemical engineering. I’m from Winchester, TN, which is a small town in Middle Tennessee. There, I enjoy going on the lake in the summer and taking in the few inches of snow we get in the winter. Living in East Tennessee has been a new and exciting experience for me, as it is pretty different from Middle Tennessee. While Knoxville is a decent-sized city compared to my hometown, the community at UT could not be stronger making me feel right at home. When I’m not in school, I enjoy exploring new coffee shops in Knoxville, reading, being outside, and spending time with my friends. My favorite activity at UT has to be cheering on the Vols in Neyland Stadium!

I have tried to take advantage of the many opportunities UT has to offer students over my time here so far. For my freshman year, I lived in the Engage LLC (Living/Learning Community) for engineering majors which helped me build a solid support system in my engineering classes while making many friends. I am also involved in Alpha Omega Epsilon which is a social and professional sorority for women in STEM majors, The Walk which is a college-age Christian ministry, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), and the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). All of these organizations have helped me find my people and place at UT.

I recently completed my first engineering internship at Eastman Chemical Company in the summer as a process improvement engineer. I got this opportunity through the engineering expo that Tickle hosts specifically for internships and co-ops, and it was an amazing experience! I not only got to see my mentors’ day to day work but also got to take on multiple projects covering several different sides of process improvement engineering. Through this, I learned so much about both engineering and my own interests.

I am so excited to show future Vols all the reasons I love UT! If you have any questions about anything, please feel free to email me! Hope to see you soon, and Go Vols!

Hey future Vols!

My name is Anna Day, and I am a Junior majoring in Biomedical Engineering with a minor in the Heath Integrated Business and Engineering Honors Program!

I am from Ken Caryl, Colorado and am so excited to be an Engineering Ambassador for the Tickle College of Engineering! Outside of being involved in engineering, I am a member of Alpha Delta Pi, a manager for the Men’s/Women’s Tennis Teams, and the Secretary of Club tennis!

Although I ended up at UT on a complete whim, I would not have traded that for anything. Being a part of the TCE I have not only felt so supported in my goals in the professional field, but also in being involved in other clubs or societies that help me grow in other aspects. The way that the TCE is structured is very much success based with help around any corner you turn. Not only are the faculty and professors such great resources, they also always try to connect with students to help each individual succeed.

I was drawn to biomedical engineering after attending a required department fair that your first year engineering courses host every year. TCE allows so many opportunities to learn about each field of engineering to help each individual find what best fits their professional goals. For me personally, I hope to work for a company doing Medical Device Sales along with implementation training for the customers!

Coming from out-of-state seemed daunting at first, but the resources UT offers to help everyone get involved and feel plugged into the University. I cannot wait to meet so many prospective engineering students on Rocky Top and express more of my love for UT! Feel free to ask any questions no matter how many!

Go Vols!

Hey future Vols!

I am a part of the Chancellor’s and Cook Grand Challenge’s Honors Program and have a double major in Data Science Interdisciplinary Studies.

I am the co-director of Hack4Impact, which is a student-led registered non-profit organization that makes and deploys websites for other non-profits across the nation. I am the Engineering Honor Society, Tau Beta Pi’s marketing chair as well as a Society of Women Engineer’s Mentor who helps guide incoming freshman through their first year of college!

Some industry experience I have had include working as a website development intern at a startup called RepMe in Knoxville, as an IT intern at International Paper in Memphis, and as a software development intern at Trimble in Knoxville. I also had experience working with and collecting data for the UT SEC Football team for a semester.

Outside of school, I love to crochet, make weapon props for costumes, and go to the gym!

Hi future Vols! Welcome to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville!

My name is Krish Dogra, and I am a senior majoring mechanical engineering. I am from Fairview, TN which is a small town about 30 minutes from downtown Nashville. I am a huge Nashville Predators fan and love the outdoors. Other than being an Engineering Ambassador, I am heavily involved in the Student Government Association and The Jones Center for Leadership & Service.

From the moment you step foot on our campus, you’ll feel a sense of belonging that is unique to our college. Our diverse and inclusive community warmly embraces students from all walks of life. The vibrant atmosphere encourages personal growth, fostering an environment where you can thrive academically, socially, emotionally, and really belong.

UT offers a large array of clubs, organizations, and extracurricular activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you want to join a robotics team, participate in community service, or engage in cultural events, there is something for everyone. I cannot wait to help you get involved with this campus and make Rocky Top home sweet home for you!

Please reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns!

GBO!

Hey future Vols!

I am a third year student studying computer science with a minor in women, gender and sexuality from Fenton, MO.

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. UT 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!

This past summer I worked as an application development intern for Southern Company and I was able to learn so much about corporate culture and different ways I can apply my technical background.

Outside of class, I am involved in my STEM professional and social sorority Alpha Omega Epsilon as judiciary director, and the Society of Women Engineers where I am a mentor and was the past pairs chair for the mentorship program. I also am a Teacher’s Assistant for Computer Science 102, which is the introduction to C++. In my free time, you can probably find me line dancing, planning my next travel opportunity, or playing guitar!

My dad used to tell me “college will be whatever you make it,” and that has always stuck with me. 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!

Hey future Vols,

Greetings from Rocky Top! My name is Dylan Fuentala, and I’m thrilled to be a part of the University of Tennessee community.

As a sophomore pursuing a degree in biomedical engineering, my passion for blending technology and healthcare has led me on an exciting journey of learning and exploration.

Although I was born in Quito, Ecuador, I was raised in Memphis, TN, where I spent most of my days enjoying live music and tasting diverse food. But now, Knoxville has become my second home, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision to join this vibrant community.

Sports have always been a significant part of my life, and I’ve played soccer, paintball, and spike ball throughout my journey. I am a die-hard Lionel Messi fan, and I can’t wait to see him play in Miami. Although I’ve moved away from home, my love for sports remains undiminished, and I eagerly follow my favorite teams whenever I can.

In order to diversify my skill-set, I have worked as a salesman for three years. I’ve even had the privilege of working in Arizona, Utah, Virginia, and Minnesota. In the future, I hope to get internships. Back at school, I’ve been lucky enough to work as a teaching assistant for the Engineering Fundamentals Department.

Transitioning to a college outside of my hometown was daunting, but my time at UT has been nothing short of incredible. The Tickle College of Engineering has not only provided a top-notch education, but also an inclusive environment where I’ve found lifelong friends, mentors, and supportive professors. I can confidently say that my close-knit group of connections will continue to guide and inspire me throughout my collegiate journey.

Knoxville is brimming with opportunities to grow and flourish, and I am eagerly looking forward to further expanding my interests and connections over the next couple of years.

If you have any questions or concerns about life at UT, from academics to extracurriculars, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’m here to help and share my experiences with you! As you embark on this new chapter, remember that Rocky Top has a warm and welcoming community waiting to embrace you.

I can’t wait to meet all of you in person and share the excitement of being part of the Volunteer family.

Go Vols! 

Hi future Volunteers!

I’m Sally Grigsby, and I am a senior here at UT working on my degree in Electrical Engineering.

Growing up outside of Nashville, the South has always been home to me, and it has made my time on Rocky Top even more special. I’ve found my home on campus in Kappa Kappa Gamma, Air Force ROTC, and the Society of Women Engineers. Outside the classroom, you can find me running, salsa dancing, or exploring the National Park System!

This is my second summer interning with Northrop Grumman, an aerospace company, in the space sector. Taking my experiences to Manhattan Beach, CA to work in power electronics was very fulfilling. Summer 2023, I supported principal EE/CE’s in FDR processes and engineering mechanics aimed at delivering an emulated bus power product to the customer. This involved managing BOM lists and working with procurement teams, working as a liaison for test equipment movement between labs, and running routine tests on the prototype. Through the mentorship program, it also afforded me the opportunity to learn the basics of Verilog, SystemVerilog, VHDL, and FPGA design. This past summer, I worked on a new power converter, but instead focusing on microelectronic circuit design and RDE data trending as well as buyoff standardization processes. I am thankful for UTK for connecting me to this opportunity.

I hope to eventually take these experiences and work full time for Northrop Grumman while serving in the US Air Force as an engineering officer in the reserves!

There is something for everyone at UT, and you will never have to look far for a support group in friends or teachers that will take you farther than you think possible. Rocky Top has brought many lifelong friends and exciting game days, but I am most grateful for the engineering community I’ve been welcomed into!

Please reach out for any questions and Go Vols!

Hey future Vols!

My name is Leah Haggitt, and I am from Memphis, TN. I am majoring in Mechanical Engineering and minoring in both Graphic Design and Industrial Design. I chose mechanical engineering because I grew up around old cars and boats and would love to go into design engineering within those industries. I knew I was going to be a Tennessee Vol after touring on a cool, fall day and immediately falling in love with the mechanical engineering department and engineering campus.

This past summer I got the opportunity to intern with AtkinsRealis, where I worked with one of their civil engineering firms in Tampa, Florida. The internship consisted of many different job/project site tours, trainings for common engineering software, and we helped out with a Florida hurricane grant project, helping to improve homes against hurricanes. Something I love about the University of Tennessee is that you are not limited to just your engineering major- there are so many opportunities to explore, learn, and get involved with other engineering fields that may interest you.

Here on campus other than being a student ambassador, I am involved in the Society of Women in Engineering, Alpha Omega Epsilon, and Young Life. Off campus I am looking for any opportunity to explore eastern Tennessee. I love everything from enjoying the river and nearby lakes in the summer to snowboarding in the smokies during the winter.

If you have any questions about engineering, Knoxville, my experiences, or anything else UT, please feel free to reach out! I would love to talk and help with any questions or concerns you may have! I hope to see you on Rocky Top!

Go Vols!

Check back later to learn more about Alex!

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!

Hey future Vols!

My name is Joey Hopper and I am from Chattanooga. I’m a senior majoring in mechanical engineering with a leadership studies minor. I decided to major in mechanical engineering because I like to solve problems and knew mechanical engineering offered many opportunities.

I am a part of the Honors Leadership Program through the University and the Cook Grand Challenge Honors Program through TCE. Participating in the honors programs at UT has provided some of the best opportunities and experiences here. I met some of my best friends in the honors Learning and Living Community (LLC). The LLCs are great because the housing for the LLCs is some of the best on-campus. They also provide a group of people focused on the same thing and can use each other as resources. The University offers an LLC for engineering called the Engage LLC. This is based in Geier Hall and exclusively holds a floor of engineering students.

Outside of school, I am involved in a few different organizations on campus. I participate in undergraduate research polishing and analyzing fiber samples at the UT Institute for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing. I am on the Campus Events Board organizing events around campus. One of the best parts about going to UT is the number of opportunities outside of classes. There are clubs across campus for everyone, from 3D printing to sailing. Getting involved around campus is a great way to meet people and learn about something you are interested in.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, will always be the place for me and I would love to see you here!

Hey future Vols!

My name is Ryan Hulsey, and I am a senior studying industrial engineering with minors in engineering management and reliability and maintainability engineering. I am from Varnell, GA, and it’s an honor to serve as an Ambassador for the Tickle College of Engineering!

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is an incredible community that offers so many ways for you to expand your perspectives and exercise your passions! For me, those include being a trumpet squad leader and band social media manager for the Pride of the Southland Marching Band, being a member of the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE), the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, and the Alpha Pi Mu ISE Honors Society. I have also had the opportunity to work with VolsTeach for engineering outreach, be a mentor for the Woods Mentoring Program, and serve as an IGNITE Team Leader!

Leading up to college, I viewed engineering as an intimidating field that was built around an excruciating college experience. My senior year of high school I decided that engineering might be for me and thought I would just have to power through college. Now that I am here at UT, I am happy to say that my previous fears were built completely on misconceptions! The Tickle College of Engineering has made me feel at home and has excited me about the possibilities in engineering. I have been supported in all academic and professional endeavors such as participating in undergraduate research with the East Tennessee Initiative for Smart Energy Management or completing an internship with Keurig Dr Pepper here in Knoxville!

As an out-of-state student, I was intimidated by attending a school where I knew nobody. Now that I am here, I am glad I took that leap of faith! My time here at UT has been unbelievable! I’ve made incredible friends, gained valuable experiences, and received a strong academic foundation for my engineering career. If you have any questions about TCE or the University of Tennessee, please reach out! I consider myself extremely blessed to serve as an Ambassador and would love to help out in any way that I can!

I look forward to seeing you here on Rocky Top!

Go Vols!

Hey Future Vols!

My name is Brennan Hume. I am from Monument, Colorado, and I am a sophomore here at 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 UTK 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 UTK Crew Club and the FIRST alumni organization. I also work at the UT Medical Center on the weekends. 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!

Hi! My name is Tessa and I’m from Raleigh, NC. I’m a sophomore at UT and I’m a biomedical engineer major with a neuroscience minor. I love being with people, reading, and doing anything outside! I’m in Chi Omega Sorority, SWEeties Mentor Program, and Chancellor’s Honors Society. I am so happy to be on Rocky Top and love everything about UTK!

Hey future Vols!

My name is Price LeNoir, and I am a senior working towards a degree in mechanical engineering with a minor in computer science.

Before moving to Knoxville, I grew up spending time on the beach and enjoying comfort food in my hometown, right outside of Charleston, SC. I am an avid sports fan and love basketball, golf, and football.

Outside of serving as an ambassador, I have enjoyed taking part in UT’s Emerging Leaders program, serving on the Provost’s Student Advisory Board, conducting undergraduate research, and mentoring incoming students through the Woods Mentorship Program. As I complete my final few semesters, I am also currently working as an intern for Mclaurin Aerospace as a flight software engineer.

UT has become a second home, and the engineering college has enabled me to forge new friendships. The freshman-year nerves quickly diminished as I found a tight-knit circle of friends, mentors, and professors who continue to offer unwavering support.

Knoxville presents a plethora of opportunities to thrive, and I hope to see you all on Rocky Top in the future. Please contact me with any of your questions or concerns!

Go Vols!

I am a senior majoring in civil engineering. After growing up in Knoxville, attending the Vols games growing up, and finally after touring the university, I knew there was no other place I wanted to go.

I am proud to say I have been apart of many student organizations from Student Alumni Associates, Student Government Association, Sigma chi, Inter fraternity council, American Society of Civil Engineers, Institute of Transportation Engineers, and now Tickle College of Engineering Ambassadors. These organizations have taken my learning beyond the classroom in addition to building a social circle full of people I am proud to call my friends.

Hey Future Vols!

My name is Sanya Shrivastava, and I’m from Franklin, TN. I am currently a junior 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 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 am also a member of Hack4Impact, the Society of Women Engineers, the Tennis Club, and the Badminton Club. I have been able to gain experience working in a couple of undergraduate research positions as well. These clubs and 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. After my freshmen year, I was able to complete my first internship at Deloitte where I worked on a project focused on a client-based cross-business case simulation and a project-based experience to help non-profit organizations solve real-life business problems. I returned to Deloitte for a second internship after my sophomore year where I focused more on Business Technology Consulting. Throughout all of this, I have been able to gain 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 🙂

Hey future Vols!

My name is Madison (Maddi) Smith, and I am a junior in biomedical engineering and a member of the Cook Grand Challenge Honors Program.

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 UT and eventually become an Engineering Ambassador.

Aside from being a TCE Ambassador, I am also an Undergraduate Research Assistant at the Upper Limb Assist Lab here at UT that analyzes medical imaging for orthopedics and rehabilitation. Additionally, I play piccolo in the Pride of the Southland Band while working as a Band Librarian.

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 first half of my career in the TCE, I have created such a great community through classes, band, research, and engineering ambassadors. The 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.

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 Lily Staddon, I am a sophomore in Nuclear Engineering with an honors concentration. I am from Apison, TN, a small area about 40 minutes outside of Chattanooga.

In high school I attended an architecture and engineering program which helped me discover a passion for engineering and a desire to pursue it. Now starting my second year I have no regrets, engineering here at UT is the right fit for me. I have found an amazing community here and boundless learning opportunities.

During my freshman year I lived in the engineering living and learning community Engage. There I built wonderful friendships surrounded by fellow first-year engineers which served as an invaluable resource when studying and working on homework. Outside of the dorm I became involved in the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), Women in Nuclear (WIN), and the Student Space Technology Association (SSTA). Currently I chair for SWE and am the treasurer for WIN. Through WIN and UT, I was able to attend the national WIN convention in Pittsburgh and meet with all sorts of nuclear professionals.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, is a huge school with numerous resources, it is truly a place to blossom. From attending nuclear colloquiums, board game nights, and even watching football games in the dorm common room; there is community and opportunity.

Please reach out to me with any questions. I hope to see you here.

GO VOLS!

Hi future Vols!

My name is Bailey Tate and I am a sophomore in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering with a minor in leadership studies. 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.

I’m from a small town in Florida called Niceville, and yes it is very nice there! But at heart I’m a mountain girl not a beach girl and the first time I visited Knoxville and UT I was in love. My first introduction to campus further sold me, where I got to meet the ISE ambassadors at the time. They showed me that there was a place for me at UT and in the engineering college as well as made me feel so incredibly welcome. I hope to be half as helpful to you as they were to me!

In addition to being a TCE ambassador, I try to be as involved on campus as I can be without overwhelming myself. I’m a very active member of the Society of Women Engineers, UT Chapter, and will be serving as the SWEeties Pairs Chair, which is our mentorship program for incoming students. I’m also a member of CHAARG, a women’s workout group on campus. I’m a student in the Honors Leadership Program, where we work on developing into effective and compassionate leaders. Through this program I was able to live in the honors living learning community, or LLC. 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 and passionate fan of Formula One. I also love to workout, especially CrossFit and yoga, and am a certified yoga instructor.

I have had the opportunity to work as an intern at Garden Street Communities and for the American Society of Quality, both in Destin Florida. This past summer, I participated in the faculty lead ISE study abroad trip to Florence, Italy. It truly was the best experience of my life and allowed me to not only learn so much about the history, art, and engineering in Florence but also about myself.

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!

Hello!

My name is Ben Tickle. I’m from Murfreesboro, Tennessee. I am a senior majoring in mechanical engineering with a minor in aerospace engineering.

I was born in Johnson City, TN, and I was a huge Vols fan from a young age. However, those interests waned as I got older, and by the time I was in high school, I was not very passionate about choosing a university or a major. It was a journey to find my place, but I know I’ve found it here at the Tickle College of Engineering. I applied to be an ambassador in my final year at UT because I want to share my college journey with you as you’re hoping (or dreading) to enter yours.

Through UT and the Tickle College of Engineering, I have met so many great people and been met with so many great challenges. I couldn’t express all of the experiences I’ve had in my time here, but I will try to give a brief synopsis of it all.

As a freshman, I participated in multiple IGNITE programs. I joined the 1794 Scholars Program and lived in the Honors and Scholars LLC in Dogwood Hall. I had doubts about my major, but I have ended up loving it and even added a minor. I have tried out all kinds of clubs and activities and eventually found and stuck with the Formula SAE team at Pellissippi State Community College. I never thought I would want to study abroad, but I studied for three weeks in Italy, through TCE, the summer before my junior year and loved it. Last summer, I had a blast interning at Mastercraft Boat Company after meeting one of their engineers at the TCE Engineering Expo. I am a lifelong athlete, and I was a part of a state championship winning cross country team in high school. In college, I’ve gotten the ability to branch out and try all kinds of sports, casually and competitively, through UT’s intramural programs. I’ve struggled and doubted myself so much on my journey, but I’ve met so many great professors, mentors, teaching assistants, and friends that have struggled alongside me and helped me accomplish my goals. And of course, there are all the amazing memories of football games.

UT and TCE have so much to offer. There are so many great people and organizations, and so many memories to be made. I know myself, my friends here, and the other TCE ambassadors have experienced a lot, so if you have any doubts, concerns, hopes, or dreams, feel free to reach out and talk to us about those. I signed up for this job because I’m passionate about this place, and I’d love to help you find your passion here on Rocky Top. But if this isn’t “Home Sweet Home” to you, that’s alright too.

Go Vols!

Hi future Vols!

My name is Natalie Victory, and I am a sophomore majoring in Aerospace Engineering!

I am from the town of Nolensville, TN, which is just about twenty minutes outside of Nashville. In my free time, I love seeing live music, hiking, and spending time with my friends. Back home, I am a huge Preds and Nashville SC fan. My love for sports has definitely translated over to Knoxville, and you can often find me at just about any UT sports game.

Since I’m from Tennessee, I understand being an in-state student who wants to go out of state more than anything; however, I am so grateful that I ended up here at UT. This university and the Tickle College of Engineering have improved my academic experience, and I cannot imagine myself anywhere else.

I’ve only been a student here for a year, but in that time, I’ve had such great experiences on campus. I am involved in the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics and the Society of Women Engineers, and I am also a part of the Chancellor’s Honors Program. Along with this, I am an active member of Alpha Omega Epsilon, which is the social and professional STEM sorority here on campus. These organizations have all allowed me to meet new people and have helped to enhance my experience here on campus.

Off-campus, I love seeing shows at The Mill & Mine, one of Knoxville’s local concert venues, going hiking in the Smoky Mountains, exploring downtown and Market Square, and grabbing a bite to eat at my favorite Thai restaurant, Chaiyo.

Feel free to reach out to me at nvictory@vols.utk.edu if you have any questions about aerospace engineering, life at UT, or anything else. I’m always happy to help.

Go Vols!

Hey Future Vols!

My name is Ava Wallace, and I am a junior majoring in biomedical engineering. I am also a member of the Chancellors 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 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 the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 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 first two 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!

Hey there!

I’m Abby Worth, a junior from Rockwood, TN, majoring in biosystems engineering with minors in climate change and geography. I’ve always been drawn to the challenges and broad opportunities within biosystems engineering because it combines environmental science with practical engineering solutions.

In my professional work, I’ve had the opportunity to engage in diverse projects. Over the summer of 2024, I conducted fieldwork in the mangrove ecosystems of Biscayne National Park, where I gained hands-on experience in environmental research. Additionally, I completed an independent study on deforestation rates in Costa Rica during the Spring 2024 semester. On campus, I work in a machine learning lab focused on understanding the effects of hurricanes on water quality and volunteer in a lake sediment lab analyzing Tennessee’s fire history. These experiences have allowed me to explore and narrow my interests within Biosystems Engineering!

Outside of academics, I’m involved in the engineering community through my memberships in Alpha Omega Epsilon and the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. These experiences have allowed me to build a strong network of peers and mentors who share my passion for engineering. When I’m not working on research or involved in campus activities, you’ll often find me enjoying the lively atmosphere at UT. UT may be a large university, but TCE creates a close-knit environment where everyone feels like family.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or want to chat about engineering, undergraduate research, or anything in between!

Go Vols!

Hi Future Vols!

My name is Michelle Zhong and I’m a junior majoring in chemical engineering with an honors concentration. 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!

There are so many opportunities open to students here in the Tickle College of Engineering, so whether you want to pursue undergraduate research or get involved in internships/co-ops during your time here, you’ll find your niche no matter how small!

On campus, I’m heavily involved with the Society of Women Engineers, Chancellor’s Honors Program, Cook Grand Challenge Engineering Honors Program, Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honors Society, and have undergraduate research experience in additive manufacturing.

Throughout my time here in TCE, I’ve had the privilege of completing an internship with Eastman Chemical Company in the Polymers Division and am currently finishing up a 4 term co-op with Dow, a chemical manufacturing company, where I’ve worked in R&D, Process Automation, Improvement, and Production. 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 about TCE, engineering, anything I’m involved in on campus, or anything related to the university, 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!