Statement of purpose MS nuclear engineering

[chewett]

"Every carbon atom in every living thing on this planet was produced from the heart of a dying star."  As a child I found the infinite vastness of the universe as a mesmerizing and overwhelming.People often experience fear when the word, "Nuclear" is mentioned. In high school, my innate curiosity of the universe was silenced by my strong fear of math, physics and chemistry courses.

It was not until my first year in undergraduate studies that my childhood passion was ignited by a challenge from my professor,  Mr. Newton to major in STEM. Once again my curiosity was sparked to further explore the grandeur of the universe through Nuclear Engineering Technology. 

With my passion, I became stronger as a student and as a person. For my academics, I received two scholarships: Department of Energy's WORC Grant and Nuclear Regulatory Commission's Trade School Scholarship. I began to network with professionals in my field of interest. I interned with the Mechanical and Electrical Departments of Southern Nuclear Company. I participated the American Nuclear Society (ANS) Student Program for the 2017 Winter Conference. I become apart of the Young Professionals Group of ANS.  I was appointed Vice President of the Excelsior College American Nuclear Society Student Section.

Through volunteering in STEM workshops and speaking at conferences, my greatest experience in undergraduate studies was inspiring female high school students the possibilities in the Nuclear Industry. in My passion transcended into a bigger opportunity as I accepted a job offer within the nuclear industry.  As a future Nuclear Engineer, I would broaden my platform and expose people to the positives of this vital energy source. After receiving my masters and advancing in my career into retirement, I would like to become a professor of engineering and influence my students to major in something challenges and expand their insights to their potential.

Through my journey, I have learn that a driven work ethic with a passion would bring many opportunities. As Mr. Newton did, I challenge myself to succeeding further in my studies of Nuclear Engineering with University of Pittsburgh.