Quinn O'Brien

I became interested in engineering after talking with my parents and especially after talking to my uncle who works with structural engineers every day. He told me how amazing the work they do is and explained it in more detail.

I decided to take PLTW classes in high school because friends recommended them and I liked the opportunity to do hands-on work with actual projects. I took PLTW classes including Computer Integrated Manufacturing Systems, Civil Engineering and Architecture, and Aerospace Engineering. I also took a senior design elective where we designed an IV pump shade to reduce the light emitted. These classes prepared me for Trine classes by forcing me to answer more complex questions, and they challenged me to be creative in my solutions.

I decided to major in civil engineering because it involves structural engineering and will give me the opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of people in my community.

My GPA is 3.63 right now, and I have been able to keep on top of my studies by planning out my schedule well in advance, and also making sure to take enough breaks from studying to keep balance in my life and remained focused. I have had an interest in boxing since I was young, and in November 2018, I began training alongside one of my fraternity brothers.

As I trained, I wanted to improve my technique, and began thinking about competing. Last spring, I won the novice 178-pound division for Golden Gloves boxing in the state of Michigan.

"(PLTW) classes prepared me for Trine classes by forcing me to answer more complex questions, and they challenged me to be creative in my solutions."

Once I graduate, I would like to practice structural engineering and eventually apply this skill to space applications, possibly working for NASA or SpaceX. I would also like to keep up with my boxing, perhaps competing professionally, and travel much of the world someday.

Financial aid has been crucial to my ability to attend Trine University. My parents gave me the ultimatum that I could go to any school as long as it didn't cost more than it did to go to Purdue. Financial aid at Trine has allowed me to attend for the same cost as Purdue, and I'm forever grateful for the knowledge, friends and experiences I've gained here.