Degree: B.S. in Materials Science & Engineering, Minor in Business Administration
How did the Stamps Scholarship help shape your undergraduate experience?
The Stamps Scholarship at the University of Florida is unique in that it is a study abroad scholarship combined with funding. The travel provided by this scholarship was a mixture of cultural, educational, and volunteer experiences. We traveled through Mexico, South Africa, and Peru, in addition to an Outward Bound trip in the US. I was challenged in ways I otherwise would not have been, and I am thankful. This program has easily been the greatest aspect of my university experience, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything!
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your freshman self?
It’s okay to try your hardest and still not do well at something ‚Äì it’s what shows you your strengths!
Who has had the greatest impact on you throughout your college career and how so?
My parents and my older brother have always been my support system. Whether with school or health issues, they’ve always been there for me at my weakest (and at my strongest) and I thank them for that.
Please share your most memorable Stamps Scholar experience.
I used enrichment funds to take a side trip from South Africa to visit Zambia, particularly Victoria Falls. The scenery and people were incredible – like all of the other trips we took, I was greatly humbled.
Plans after graduation?
Three months of traveling through Europe, then moving to Baton Rouge, Louisiana to work full time as a metallurgist for ExxonMobil beginning in September.