Class of 2025
Hometown: Waldorf, MD
High School: Bishop McNamara High School
What is your favorite thing about FPE?
My favorite thing about FPE is our incredible need in the world and the corresponding opportunities available for Fire Protection Engineers. Our work protects the world from the effects of unwanted fires. Fires occur everywhere and safety is vital, so FPE is involved with everything! There are plentiful opportunities for internships, co-op programs, study abroad, careers, scholarships, and more available specifically for FPE students. This proves how important our efforts are and how much of a difference we make. Being in this position is extremely unique to Fire Protection Engineering.
Why did you choose FPE over other STEM majors?
I knew I wanted to study FPE since I was a sophomore in high school. I liked engineering, but couldn’t connect well with the common majors. I found Fire Protection Engineering to be very intriguing since it can be tied into many topics such as human behavior, space, environmental conservation, transportation, explosives, system design, forensics, consulting, and technology. I could match any passion or niche to a career path in FPE.
What do you value most about the Department and your time with FPE?
I truly value the high level of care I have experienced in this tight-knit department. Everyone, including faculty, staff, students, and alumni, are all very passionate about FPE and this community. I admire how the department looks out for one another, knows everyone's name, holds an open-door policy, and keeps up-to-date with current and former student whereabouts. They ensure everyone is personally valued and supported during their time here and after graduation. Our supportive community amplifies the overall Fire Protection Engineering experience. It is very unique and is my favorite part of my college experience.
How else are you involved in the campus, either in or outside the Department?
Besides being an FPE Ambassador, I am a member of SFPE (Society of Fire Protection Engineers), WIE (Women in Engineering), and UMD The Pride (Official student fan organization of Maryland Athletics).
When you’re not in class, or serving the Department, where can you be found?
I like long walks on campus, taking photos, studying, and listening to music. I enjoy spending time with my family on the weekends and traveling as much as I can! Attending Women’s Lacrosse and Basketball games are also top on my list!
What is the best thing about UMD?
The best thing about UMD, in my opinion, are our amazing sports teams and events! The energy of getting your free student t-shirt at the Saturday Noon football game is unmatched! One of my favorite Maryland memories was having pizza and meeting President Pines at the Men’s Basketball Midnight Mile event in fall 2021. There is a lot of pride, history, and excitement surrounding our sports here at UMD.
Any last words for prospective students?
I encourage you to focus on your goals (both professional and personal ones), be yourself, do not undervalue soft skills, and trust your personal academic plan. If you put in the work and put yourself out there, it will be rewarding!
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