Katherine Goetz
University of Maryland

Degrees: B.S. Mechanical Engineering

How did the Stamps Scholarship help shape your undergraduate experience?
I was able to study abroad for a semester in Glasgow, Scotland! Studying abroad was an indescribably amazing experience; it changed my life and who I am as a person.

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your freshman self?
Don’t worry so much, everything works out the way it is supposed to.

Who has had the greatest impact on you throughout your college career and how so?
I am constantly inspired by my peers. There are so many students who are passionately pursuing their dreams, its hard not to be impressed. When I was young, I always longed for college, because I imagined it as a place where people loved what they were studying and loved school as much as I did. I have not been disappointed. Aside from some day to day complaining about exams and late night study sessions (but, who can blame us?), I am surrounded by people who are intellectually curious and driven to achieve, and for that, I am beyond grateful.

What’s your favorite Stamps Scholar memory?
Attending my first Stamps Scholar Conference freshman year, in Atlanta, 2015! One of my fellow UMD scholars, Joseph Piscitelli, and I were friends before going but weren’t extremely close. He wasn’t checking a bag, but I did, and he asked to put his shampoo and conditioner in my suitcase. What he didn’t realize is that he hadn’t fully closed the shampoo. When we arrived in Atlanta, the entire bottle of his shampoo had spilled all over my clothes. Needless to say, he has been one of my best friends ever since.

What comes next?
I have accepted a full-time position as a Mechanical Design Engineer at Key Tech, an engineering design contracting company in Baltimore, MD. I look forward to being part of the design process of new products from start to finish, and to continue my pursuit of lifelong learning.

Please share your favorite inspirational quote.
“And one day she discovered that she was fierce, and strong, and full of fire, and that not even she could hold herself back because her passion burned brighter than her fears.” ‚Äì Mark Anthony