Reagan Anderson

Senior

• Major: Biomedical Engineering

Biography

Hi! I’m Reagan Anderson, and I’m a rising senior studying biomedical engineering. I’m someone who loves staying busy and getting involved in as many ways as I can! I currently do research in Assistant Professor Bryan Good’s biomechanics lab, where we focus on heart modeling and function. On campus, I work as a student assistant in both the Engineering Student Success Center and the Dean’s Office, which has helped me connect with so many amazing people in the college. I’m really passionate about the medical side of engineering, especially prosthetics and hope to keep exploring that through research and future opportunities. Outside of school, I love spending time with friends, going on walks with my dachshund Poppy, and making the most of everything UT has to offer. I’m so excited to be a part of the Woods Mentorship Program and can’t wait to meet everyone!

Ar-Raniry Ar-Rasyid

Junior

• Major: Computer Science

Biography

My name is Ar-Raniry. I’m the oldest of three and a rising junior at UT. My interests include combat sports and video games. Some extra-curricular activities I partake in are MSA, Wrestling, and Hack Club. The internships I’ve had are primarily STEM education and random interests of mine like woodworking.

Neela Baker

Senior

• Major: Computer Engineering

Biography

Hello! My name is Neela Baker. I am from Maryland and am a senior studying computer engineering with a minor in cybersecurity! I love getting outside and making an impact on my community and volunteer at many organizations including Ijams Nature Center, Alzheimers Tennessee, and Salvation Army. Outside of class, I love to run, do fun crafts, travel, volunteer, and bake! Around campus, I am involved with the Tennessee Running Club, Society of Women Engineers, Systers, Tyson House, and Delta Gamma, but I also participate in other clubs events and intramurals. For the past 2 summers, I have had AI related internships with Intelligensis LLC and Northrop Grumman, and this summer, I will be working with Ametek doing circuit design. I have been a mentor for the Society of Women Engineers, but this is my first time as a mentor for the Woods Mentorship Program. I cannot wait for this opportunity and the great people it will bring!

Ryan Beard

Senior

• Major: Civil Engineering

Biography

I’m a civil engineering student at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a strong interest in infrastructure, national security, and community-focused solutions. Currently, I’m interning at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in the Office of Radiological Security, where I support research into global cargo theft patterns and radiological emergency response readiness.

My previous work at ORNL’s Chemical Sciences Division focused on advancing solid-state battery technology using polymer electrolytes. Before transitioning into engineering, I served as a 911 dispatcher and worked as a peer tutor and mentor — experiences that taught me how to stay calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and always lead with integrity.

I’m actively involved in campus life through the Institute of Nuclear Materials Management (INMM), Transportation Security UNIFIED Stakeholders Group (TSUSG), and UTK’s Pre-college summer camp counselor.

I bring kindness, hard work, and a strong sense of purpose to everything I do — and I’m always looking for opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute to projects that matter.

Alyssa Bice

Sophomore

• Major: Aerospace Engineering

Biography

Hello! My name is Alyssa Bice, and I am a sophomore studying aerospace engineering with a minor in pre-health professions. My goal is to innovate aerospace medicine by bridging aerospace engineering and medicine. I serve as the Training Director for EMS Vols, Vice Chair of AIAA, Programs Chair for the Society of Hispanic Engineers, and Vice President of the Astronomy Club. I also work as a student assistant for the Women in Engineering Program and work part-time as an EMT. Additionally, I enjoy reading, writing, superheroes, and playing video games. I’m passionate about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and bring people together!

Ella Bienick

Sophomore

• Major: Nuclear Engineering

Hi, my name is Ella Bienick, and I am a sophomore nuclear engineering major with a minor in material sciences. I hope to eventually work in refueling engineering. I am in the sorority Delta Zeta and involved in two intramural teams. This year, I plan on getting involved in research and hopefully get an internship for the summer!

Kalin Blinstrub

Senior

• Major: Biomedical Engineering

Biography

My name is Kalin Blinstrub, and I am an upcoming senior biomedical engineering major! I am from Peachtree City, Georgia, which is south of Atlanta. I have a very outgoing personality and love to try new things. I am very involved in my sorority Zeta Tau Alpha, The Society of Women in Engineering, as well as the Native American Student Association. I enjoy spending time with friends, taking walks outside, and trying new coffee shops in Knoxville! I also am a part of the 1794 honors program! During the summer of 2023, I completed an internship at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in Buffalo, New York. Here, I worked on a research study that focused on treating xerostomia (a side effect of radiation treatment in head and neck cancer patients). This summer (2025), I will be interning at Fresenius as a research and development intern. I look forward to meeting all the new engineers next year! Go Vols!

Matthew Boisture

Sophomore

• Major: Electrical Engineering

Biography

I am Matthew Boisture, a sophomore studying electrical engineering. I’m the founder and president of Engineering Youth Education club, have experience at two nuclear detector laboratories in Oak Ridge, and built my own gas proportional alpha particle detector using scrap metal. I’m passionate about helping others achieve their academic and career goals. Outside of academics, I enjoy hanging out with friends, playing board games, and staying active.

Riley Clark

Sophomore

• Major: Mechanical Engineering

Biography

Hi! My name is Riley Clark, and I am a rising sophomore in mechanical engineering. I am an out-of-state student from Georgia who has found my place on campus through my involvement in the Society of Women in Engineering (SWE) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). I am super passionate about live music and love going to concerts in my free time. I can’t wait to become a mentor and share some of my favorite places in Knoxville and help guide my mentee through their first semester here at UT.

Jacob Clevenger

Junior

• Major: Nuclear Engineering

Biography

Hi! I am from Nashville Tennessee and I grew up on a farm. I go to the gym every day along with play guitar. I enjoy hiking and the outdoors, I also love binge watching movies. I have done a 1-year coop with dominion energy where I worked with nuclear safety analysis and reactor engineering. The summer of 2024 I was in New Mexico working as an emergency preparedness intern at a uranium enrichment facility. I really enjoyed these internships as they have pushed me to further my degree in nuclear engineering

Jacob Cole

Junior

• Major: Biomedical Engineering

Biography

My name is Jacob Cole. I like to watch and play basketball, listen to music, and play spades. I’m the current Vice President of the Mu Iota Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated here at UT and was the previous Publications Chair of the National Society of Black Engineers.

Hunter Cronk

Junior

• Major: Mechanical Engineering

Biography

My name is Hunter Cronk, and I am a junior in mechanical engineering from Erie, Pennsylvania. I am involved with the Tickle College of Engineering Ambassadors, which helps guide prospective students on tours in order to help them gain a better understanding of what The University of Tennessee, Knoxville has to offer. In my free time, I enjoy golfing, hanging out with friends, and attending and watching different campus sporting events. This summer, I am gaining internship experience as a Mold and Engineering Intern at a precision molding company.

Nora Daugherty

Senior

• Major: Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

Biography

Hi, my name is Nora, and I am super excited to be a Woods Mentor! I am a senior in chemical engineering from Winchester, TN. Over the past three years at UT, I’ve been involved in Alpha Omega Epsilon, which is a social and professional sorority for women in STEM majors, the Tickle College of Engineering Ambassadors Program, and the Society of Women Engineers. These clubs and organizations have helped me grow in both professional and personal ways. Outside of UT, I held an internship as a process improvement engineer at Eastman and held another internship as a quality engineer with Keurig Dr Pepper in their K-Cup manufacturing plant. Both of these have helped me learn so much about industry and also allowed me to learn some of the important roles that engineers hold in all industries. In my free time, I love being outside and exploring new coffee shops around Knoxville! UT has been so good to me, and I can’t wait to mentor a new engineering Vol!

Zoie Estes

Junior

• Major: Civil Engineering

Biography

Hello! My name is Zoie Estes, and I am a junior in civil engineering, planning to concentrate in structural and construction engineering. I appreciate the technical details that go into the design and construction of all types of buildings, as I am a naturally creative and technically inclined person. I love to listen to music, draw, read, watch movies, and all artsy things in between! During my sophomore year, I was granted an exceptional opportunity to serve as an undergraduate research assistant, studying the behavior of sand and aggregate materials under loading forces. I look forward to the upcoming years and the new opportunities that will arise!

Stella Evenson

Junior

• Major: Aerospace Engineering

Biography

I’m a dedicated and well-rounded student with a strong passion for personal and professional development. Currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in just three years while maintaining a full course load, I’ve also gained valuable industry experience through my internship as a Product Development Engineer at an HVAC company. On campus, I’m actively involved in SWE, Christian organizations like Delight Ministries, and have applied for enrichment opportunities such as Heath IBEP. Outside of academics, I enjoy staying active through working out, hiking, and attending campus events. I also love walking to the Knoxville Farmers Market, reading, sewing, and meal prepping. My goal is to grow not just in my career, but as a whole person—spiritually, socially, and intellectually—and I’m excited to both give and gain through mentorship.

Samantha Exum

Junior

• Major: Biosystems Engineering

Biography

I am currently a junior in biosystems engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, but I’m originally from Charlotte, NC. I’m deeply passionate about sustainability and environmental stewardship and have a special interest in watershed management and water resource engineering. I am involved with ASABE, SWE, serve as the president of Engineers Without Borders, and march piccolo in the Pride of the Southland! I am also a member of the 2027 Heath Integrated Business and Engineering cohort. This summer, I’m working on an undergraduate research project and studying abroad in Belgium! I have been incredibly fortunate to have several personal/professional mentors throughout my time at UT, so I’m super excited for the opportunity to mentor incoming freshman.

Aidan Feyerherm

Senior

• Major: Computer Science

Biography

Hi! I’m Aidan Feyerherm, a senior majoring in computer science with a focus on data analysis. I’m a part of the Chancellor’s Honors Program and am also a Peer Mentor for the honors program. I’m very interested in environmental causes, and am an active member of the Sustainable Business Organization on campus. When I’m not working, I am usually taking a part in a few intramural sports, playing games, or watching UT sports with friends!

Colton Fleitz

Senior

• Major: Mechanical Engineering

Biography

Hi! My name is Colton Fleitz, and I am a rising senior at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville from Las Vegas studying mechanical engineering. On campus, I’m involved in Greek life, serving as the website manager for my fraternity, community service through the Rocky Top BBQ Society, and intramural sports. Last summer, I had the privilege of interning at Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, TX and this summer plan to study abroad in Florence, Italy. Outside of school and work, I enjoy the outdoors, spending time with friends, cooking, and have a deep passion for travel.

Randi Gill

Sophomore

• Major: Material Science and Engineering

Biography

Hi! My name is Randi Gill, and I am an upcoming sophomore from New Jersey majoring in materials science and engineering. I am a super outgoing person, and I love meeting new people and getting involved with on campus organizations, like my sorority Delta Zeta. I’m also big into volunteering, and last year, I attended VOLbreaks, a UT sponsored alternative break program in Charlotte, NC, where we volunteered at medicinal horse farms with a theme of disability advocacy. This fall, I am so excited to be co-leading a VOLbreaks trip to Birmingham, AL. For fun, I love to work out, snowboard, try new coffee places (I have been super into matcha lately), participate in intramural sports, and cheer on the Vols in Neyland. I am so excited to be a part of the Wood Mentorship Program and can’t wait to meet you!

Wilson Hagen

Sophomore

• Major: Biomedical Engineering

Biography

Hey! I’m Wilson Hagen, and I’m from Chattanooga, TN. I’m a sophomore in biomedical engineering. I love playing guitar, going to the gym, skiing, football, and being outside. I’m a member of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) and the UT Ski and Snow Club. Go Vols!

Jackson Heiden

Junior

• Major: Civil Engineering

Biography

Hi, my name is Jackson Heiden, and I am from Sioux Falls, SD. I am going into my junior year studying civil engineering and business administration. On campus, I am involved in the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) organization and am Co-Captain of the steel bridge team. On top of my involvement in ASCE, I am also an Ambassador for the Anderson Center of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, as well as Recruitment Chair for the UT Ducks Unlimited Student Chapter. Outside of campus, I am an avid outdoorsman and love to hunt and fish. I am passionate about everything VOLS, leadership, and finding ways to add value to people’s lives. I cannot wait to add to an incoming Volunteer’s experience here at the University of Tennessee!

John Helphinstine

Senior

• Major: Civil Engineering

Biography

I’m a civil engineering student here at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I have a passion for problem solving and design. In my free time, I love golfing, fitness, and travel. Throughout college, I have had the privilege and opportunity to work in general contracting, urban site design, civil design, and water resource engineering. I have begun to help reform the water resource student organization as the president, with the help of Associate Professor Jon Hathaway, Lecturer Benjamin Fennell, and my peers. I’m excited for the opportunities and connections that the Wood Mentorship Program provides and would have loved to have a guiding hand when beginning to navigate college and engineering.

Omar Hewezi

Sophomore

• Major: Mechanical Engineering

Biography

Hello my name is Omar Hewezi, and I’m an upcoming sophomore here at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville majoring in mechanical engineering. This summer, I will be working in a research lab at UT working on a couple different projects, such as a bionic arm and small autonomous cars. In my free time, I love to play soccer and try new foods!

Sophia Hickey

Senior

• Major: Biomedical Engineering

Biography

Hi! I am Sophia Hickey, and I will be a senior studying biomedical engineering. I am someone who is always looking for ways to get involved and find ways in which I can make an impact on the community around me! I am currently a member of Dream on 3, Society of Professional Hispanics in Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Society, Society of Women in Engineering, Kappa Kappa Gamma, and many other intramurals and organizations on campus. I am excited to continue my co-op at Siemens Healthineers this summer to learn more about the medical device side of biomedical engineering, and I can’t wait to see how much I learn and grow! I love spending time outside, going to sporting events, doing some arts and crafts, as well as game nights. I am so excited to be a part of the Woods Mentorship Program, and I can’t wait for all of the amazing memories and people it will bring!

Crayton Higgins

Junior

• Major: Aerospace Engineering

Biography

I love to read and play games. I am an RA at West Beacon Hall and on the Ultimate Frisbee Club team. I also studied abroad in London with the university.

Robert Huber

Junior

• Major: Civil Engineering

Biography

I will be entering my third year at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in the fall. I am majoring in civil engineering with a minor in Hispanic studies. This year, I will serve as Vice President and Concrete Canoe Captain for the American Society of Civil Engineers and as President for our club wrestling team. I am a two-time National Collegiate Wrestling Association National Qualifier and Academic All-American. This summer, I will study abroad with the UT Service-Learning Program in Costa Rica and then return home to complete my second internship with Whiting Turner. I love working out, hiking, and attending UT sporting events. I look forward to continuing to serve as a mentor in the Wood Mentoring Program.

Angelina Ju

Junior

• Major: Computer Science

Biography

Hello! My name is Angelina Ju, and I’ll be an upcoming junior studying computer science this year! I’m currently learning more about front-end development, robotics, and machine learning and trying to get experience in just about every field. I do a bit of on-campus research regarding quadrupedal robots for dementia care, but I’m still looking for new opportunities while managing my internship search. Outside of my academics, I have a variety of extracurriculars such as pilates/barre, dance covers, horseback riding, gaming, and I’m also the convention planner for our chapter of the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers. I’m looking forward to meeting and chatting with new students!

Faith Keating

Junior

• Major: Industrial and Systems Engineering

Biography

Howdy!! My name is Faith, and I am a rising junior studying industrial and systems engineering. I hope to find my way into industry where I can focus on collaboration and optimization to improve the lives of others, whether that be in consulting, project management, automotive, healthcare, or manufacturing. I am so thankful for all of the opportunities at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville that are helping me reach my goals such as: being a department ambassador, being the treasurer for the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers, and the Heath Integrated Business and Engineering program! A little more about me is that I am from North Carolina, and I live on a farm with lots of animals. I enjoy spending time outside whether it’s kayaking, dirt biking or going on walks with my pets. And lastly, I have furthered my passion for creating since working at the Innovation and Collaboration Studio especially with 3D printing and laser engraving.

Jack Kersting

Junior

• Major: Aerospace Engineering

Biography

Hey, I’m Jack! I am a junior in aerospace engineering from Charleston, SC. I love the outdoors, from hiking and camping to free diving and fishing. I am involved in the fraternity Zeta Psi and engineering fraternity Theta Tau. This upcoming fall semester, I will have completed my first internship at the Scientific Research Corporation, and looking to engage in research in hypersonics.

Sam Koch

Sophomore

• Major: Nuclear Engineering

Biography

My name is Sam Koch. I am a nuclear engineering student originally from Parker, CO. I am a member of the American Nuclear Society at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and I am the president of the TriVols Triathlon Club at UT. I love being active and living outdoors.

Emma Lehman

Junior

• Major: Mechanical Engineering

Biography

Hey! My name is Emma, and I’m from Colorado and currently studying mechanical engineering. I am very interested in aerospace and hope to help design things for space in the future. I love anything outdoors: hiking, long walks, pickleball, tennis, and going swimming at the quarry. I also love to travel and am always up for a road-trip to nearby colleges or heading to Nashville with friends. Tennessee has totally stolen my heart, and I’m always excited to share everything I’ve learned and loved here over the past two years!

Amanda Lick

Sophomore

• Major: Mechanical Engineering

Biography

I am a sophomore pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering at tje University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I am on the UT fencing team, and I am in Inside Out Engineering. I am a member of Society of Women Engineers and American Society of Mechanical Engineers. I love hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, and anything outdoors!

Hezekiah McDonald

Senior

• Major: Computer Science

Biography

I’m Hezekiah McDonald. I’m a senior studying computer science at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I’m an undergraduate researcher at epic lab, a member of NSBE, and one of the sitting representatives of the tickle college of engineering in student government. When I’m not doing classwork, I like talking to people and developing small games. This summer I’m working as a software development intern at WSP.

Gavin Miller

Senior

• Major: Industrial and Systems Engineering

Biography

My name is Gavin Miller, and I am from Harrisonburg, VA. This summer I am completing an internship with SK Food Group in Reno, NV. I like working out, Fromsoftware games, and cooking.

Lily Mize

Junior

• Major: Biosystems Engineering

Biography

Hi, my name is Lily Mize, and I’m a biosystems engineering major with a concentration in ecological systems. I’m especially passionate about creating more efficient and environmentally responsible food systems. After my freshman year, I worked as an engineering co-op at Cargill, a food manufacturing company, and this summer, I’ll be conducting food science research in New Zealand as part of an NSF-funded project. Outside of academics, I love practicing yoga, hiking, reading, and gardening. I am very excited to be a part of this program!

Perry Moore

Senior

• Major: Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

Biography

Hi! My name is Perry Moore. I am a senior studying chemical engineering with a minor in business administration. I am looking to graduate spring of 2027. I love all things Vol sports and enjoy playing a few in my free time. I love to spend time with my friends, especially outdoors. I am a member of the Society of Women Engineers, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, and the Tennessee Society of Professional Engineers. I have completed one internship rotation and will start my second one this summer at Zeanah. This is my second year as a Woods Mentor, and I am so happy to call the University of Tennessee my home. I hope to help you find your home here, too!

Alberto Morales

Senior

• Major: Aerospace Engineering

Biography

My name is Alberto, and I am from Johnson City, TN. I am an aerospace engineering major, and I hope to go to graduate school and eventually become involved in hypersonic flight research. I am very involved in my fraternity, Delta Kappa Epsilon. I have served as the social chair and scholarship chair. I am also the public relations chair for the UT Astronomy Club. At the end of Summer 2025, I will have completed my engineering internship with ERMCO.

William Nicolas

Sophomore

• Major: Mechanical Engineering

Biography

My name is William Nicolas, and I’m a rising sophomore in mechanical engineering here at University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I’m originally from Chattanooga, TN, and I’m a member of both the Chancellor’s Honors Program and the UT Success Academy. I’m passionate about robotics and aspire to work in the field of advanced robotics and artificial intelligence, with dreams of contributing to innovative companies like Boston Dynamics. On campus, I serve as the President of UT’s Filipino Club and am also an active member of the Table Tennis Club and the Esports Club. In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, working out, and spending time with friends.

Annabeth Parker

Senior

• Major: Industrial and Systems Engineering

Biography

Hi, my name is Annabeth Parker, and I am a senior in industrial and systems engineering (ISE). I currently work as a student worker in the Tickle College of Engineering Dean’s Office as well as act as an ambassador for the ISE Department. Since being in school, I have completed two co-ops and one internship in fields anywhere from hospitality to construction to medical equipment manufacturing. I love all things related to the outdoors and food—I even have a food blog (of sorts). In my free time, I play on the UT Women’s Club Soccer Team, hang out with friends, and garden.

Anna Patton

Sophomore

• Major: Industrial and Systems Engineering

Biography

Hi!! My name is Anna Patton, and I am from Knoxville, TN. I am an upcoming sophomore in industrial and systems engineering, and I am a part of the Cook Grand Challenge honors program. On campus, I am involved in SWE, Society of Women Engineers, and I will be interning for the IT department in the Nursing College. I am very excited to be a part of this program!

Cole Perry

Senior

• Major: Aerospace Engineering

Biography

Hey! My name is Cole Perry, and I am a senior majoring in aerospace engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. On campus, I am an EF undergraduate teaching assistant and engineering ambassador for TCE, and I have served previously as the events coordinator and vice president of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), where I will be the president of the student chapter this year. I have done undergraduate research in the Hypersonics and Propulsion Lab and had a summer internship last year with SkyNano Technologies. This summer and upcoming school year, I will be interning with Mclaurin Aerospace as a Flight Dynamics Intern. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with friends, attending any Vol sports event, and being outdoors.

Sudarsini Prasanna

Junior

• Major: Nuclear Engineering

Biography

Hi! I’m Suda Prasanna, a junior in nuclear engineering and minoring in materials science. I love leadership, comedy, and being involved. I’m in a sorority, Sigma Sigma Rho, and I serve as the Vice President of the Multicultural Greek Council at UT. I work at the Vol Study center as a Peer Learning Assistant, and I’m the secretary of Women in Nuclear, and I love helping out at SWE’s Tomorrow’s Engineers Today Event. This will be my second year as a Wood Mentor, and I’m so excited to return. I love mentoring and am really happy to get to know the rest round of mentees!! I also have 2 German Shepherds!

Isaiah Rajnoor

Sophomore

• Major: Civil Engineering

Biography

My name is Isaiah Rajnoor, and I’m a sophomore majoring in civil engineering. I have a strong passion for music—I play both piano and percussion. On campus, I serve as the Vice President of Black Students for Artistic Expression, where I help promote creativity and cultural expression. I’m always looking for new opportunities to grow, explore my interests, and make the most of my college experience.

Ashley Robertson

Senior

• Major: Mechanical Engineering

Biography

Hello everyone! My name is Ashley Robertson, and I am a senior in mechanical engineering. I’m from Greenville, SC and love attending country concerts, going to UT sporting events, hiking, or just getting coffee with friends. I have completed two internships including one at Altec Industries in Burnsville, NC and one at Peterbilt in Denton, TX, and I am excited to see where this next year takes me. Looking forward to meeting you all!

Daniel Ruth

Sophomore

• Major: Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

Biography

Howdy! My name is Daniel Ruth, and I’m from Gautier, MS. I’m majoring in chemical engineering and minoring in engineering management. I’m a second year student but I have my associates degree from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. I’m super into TTRPGS like D&D or Pathfinder, I love watching movies, I’m super into watching football and hockey, and I love listening to any music you could put in front of me. I’m involved in Knights of the Hill and the Historical European Martial Arts club. I’m excited to meet more people and assist in the transition to Rocky Top. Go Vols!

Stefan Smith

Junior

• Major: Computer Science

Biography

Hello! I’m Stefan, a junior computer science major from Nashville, TN. I enjoy hiking, listening to music, reading, playing soccer and basketball, and video games. I’m an officer in the Game Development Club and am actively involved with the Student Space Technology Association (SSTA). I will also be doing research in the fall.

Sophia Tegel

Sophomore

• Major: Biomedical Engineering

Biography

Hi, my name is Sophia and I’m from Crystal lake, IL. I’m a sophomore studying biomedical engineering. I’m involved with SWE, BMES, and the stem sorority, Alpha Omega Epsilon. I love coffee, concerts, hot girl walks, spending time with friends, and anything related to UT!

Natalie Victory

Junior

• Major: Aerospace Engineering

Biography

Hi, my name is Natalie Victory, and I am a junior in aerospace engineering. In addition to the Wood Mentoring Program, I also serve as a Tickle College of Engineering Ambassador and am involved in AIAA, SWE, and Alpha Omega Epsilon. I currently work as an undergraduate researcher in a lab that focuses on hypersonics, and I am in the Chancellor’s Honors Program. Outside of academics, I enjoy spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, walking, or exploring nature, and I love live music and photography.

Blanca Villar Rodriguez

Sophomore

• Major: Industrial and Systems Engineering

Biography

Hi everyone! My name is Blanca, and I am a rising sophomore in Industrial and Systems Engineering, dual-minoring in Heath IBEP (joint business and engineering program) and Engineering Entrepreneurship. I’m an international student here at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville from Madrid, Spain. On campus, I am involved in the Engineering Living and Learning Community (Engage) and Volunteer Puppy partners, a service dog club (I’m a big dog person). I also plan on getting more engaged with campus organizations if time permits in the future! In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with friends, doing arts and crafts, traveling and visiting new places, going to concerts and shows, and trying new things. I also enjoy volunteering around campus when I have some free time. Overall, I’m very excited to meet new engineers and to see you all around campus next semester!

Jordan Wetzel

Sophomore

• Major: Civil Engineering

Biography

Hi! I’m Jordan Wetzel, and I’m a civil engineering major in the Cook Grand Challenge Honors Program from Roanoke, VA! I absolutely love all the ways to be active and involved at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I am currently a member of Engineers Without Boarders, and am a part of the campus ministry, Cru. When I’m not studying or getting coffee at the Pod in Zeanah, you can usually find me running around campus, as I am a runner on the Tennessee club team. This summer, I’m excited to be an intern at Branch Civil. I love meeting new people and am super passionate about how amazing the engineering program here at UT is, so I’m super pumped to be a part of the Wood Mentor Program!

Kendal Wright

Junior

• Major: Mechanical Engineering

Biography

My name is Kendal Wright, and I am a rising junior in mechanical engineering from Montgomery, AL. I am so grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences with incoming freshmen and hopefully make their transition to college easier. On campus, I am working as an undergraduate research assistant in Fred N. Peebles Professor and IAMM Chair of Excellence Dayakar Penumadu’s research group. Along with that, I am assisting an aerospace engineering senior design team as part of an independent study for Clinical Associate Professor James Lyne. I am also involved with other organizations such as Tau Beta Pi, Society of Women Engineers, Leading Women of Tomorrow, and Alpha Delta Pi. This summer, I am completing an internship in Washington, D.C., working for the Architect of the Capitol, which combines my interests in both engineering and political science (my minor). These opportunities have allowed me to make the most of my experience at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and I look forward to using all that I have learned to guide new students in achieving their goals here!

Julia Yasenchak

Junior

• Major: Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

Biography

Hello! My name is Julia, and I’m a rising junior in chemical engineering with a biomolecular concentration. On campus, I’m involved in AIChE, Theta Tau Engineering Fraternity, and Society of Women in Engineering. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, reading, and going on walks with friends! I’m currently doing undergraduate research in food sustainability that will continue into the summer in New Zealand at the University of Otago!