Class of 2026
Hometown: Catonsville, MD
High School: The Catholic High School of Baltimore
What is your favorite thing about FPE?
What I love about Fire Protection Engineering is that it's reflexive engineering, which means I can actively adapt and respond to real-world challenges as they happen. It’s awesome that I’ll be able to directly help people through the work I’ll be doing. Since fire can happen anywhere, there’s a wide range of jobs and people I can impact. Plus, the interdisciplinary nature of FPE means I’ll get to learn from and collaborate with engineers from all different fields.
Why did you choose FPE over other STEM majors?
I’ve always been passionate about engineering, but when I learned about Fire Protection Engineering, it felt like the perfect match. The strong sense of community and the excellent job placement opportunities were compelling reasons that solidified my choice.
What do you value most about the Department and your time with FPE?
I really value the support that the Fire Protection Engineering department offers. Whenever I’ve struggled, they’ve always helped me find resources and study tools that set me up for success. The students and faculty genuinely care, reaching out to make sure you’re doing well and always offering help when you need it.
How else are you involved in the campus, either in or outside the Department?
On campus, I’m heavily involved in several organizations. I’m the Secretary of the Society of Women Engineers and an alum of FLEXUS, a living and learning community that promotes diversity and inclusion in engineering. I’m also a member of Alpha Omega Epsilon, a professional and social sorority for women in engineering and technical science-related fields, as well as the Society of Fire Protection Engineers. These groups have all helped me grow both professionally and personally.
Where can you be found when you’re not in class or serving the Department?
When I'm not in class or serving the department you can find me studying in McKeldin, out with my friends, or at Starbucks grabbing a coffee.
What is the best thing about UMD?
What I love most about UMD is its diversity. There are so many unique organizations to join and people to meet, which makes it easy to find your community. Getting involved has made this big campus feel a lot more like home!
Any last words for prospective students?
One of the best things about FPE is how welcoming and close-knit the community is. It’s a place where everyone genuinely supports each other, and you'll quickly feel a sense of belonging. The connections you make here are unique and lasting, making it a truly special environment for both learning and personal growth.
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