The Story Collider Presents: Stories from Utah State University
The Story Collider is excited to be partnering with Utah State University to share true, personal stories about science from their engineering students.
Hosted by Bryan Kett and Kellie Vinal.
Doors at 6 pm. Show starts at 6:30 pm.
Stories by:
I’m Senorita Sarker, a PhD student in Mechanical Engineering at Utah State University. I’m originally from Bangladesh, and coming to the U.S. for graduate school was a much bigger adjustment than I expected. I came here excited to start a new chapter, but I quickly learned that getting accepted was only the beginning. I had to figure out a new country, a new academic environment, a new field, and, honestly, how to feel like I belonged. A lot of my story is about learning to be patient with myself when things didn’t happen as quickly as I wanted.
Outside of school and research, I’m someone who stays very connected to my family and the friends. They’ve been a big part of helping me through the difficult days and reminding me who I am outside of being a PhD student.
I’m sharing this story because I think a lot of us have moments when we wonder, “Am I taking too long?” I’ve learned that sometimes, you just need to give yourself time to see how far you’ve actually come.
Ankit Gautam is a Ph.D. student in Mechanical Engineering at Utah State University. His research focuses on fluid dynamics, experimental and computational techniques, and energy technologies. Before joining Utah State University, he worked as a mechanical design engineer and energy consultant. In his free time, he enjoys reading and cooking.
Hi, I’m Allondra Woods! I’m a third year PhD student in the Biological and Chemical Engineering Department at Utah State University. Before coming to USU, I earned my Bachelor’s in biology with a certificate in sustainability, which fueled my passion for microbiology. Today, I work in the Fungal Biotechnology and Engineering Lab, where my research focuses on using fungi to grow sustainable, alternative construction materials. My ultimate goal is to use microorganisms to make the world a cleaner and healthier place, whether that’s by cleaning up mining waste or engineering eco-friendly biomaterials. When I’m not in the lab, you can find me, my husband, and our dogs exploring the mountains.
Aiden Meek: As a Cache Valley native, I've been here near Logan Utah for most of my life and attending USU for 9 years. I started as an undergraduate student in mechanical engineering and I'm about to finish a PhD in mechanical engineering. My interests revolve around accurate modeling and energy systems. I love learning about the world, and the physical and spiritual laws by which it operates. My wife would say it is most of what I think and talk about.
Which is a rather unfair observation, as I also have a keen interest in swimming, free diving, skiing, and many other outdoor activities in addition to reading various books. I've been a competitive swimmer for most of my life, and though my family and scholarly activities have put that mostly on hold, I still love to get a good swim workout in when I can.
I believe in the peacemaking value of stories. I believe that a well-constructed and clearly articulated story can teach important lessons and spread improved understanding in the world. Though, I am quite novice at this, I hope my story holds something of value you may find.
