Motivating, Challenging and Memorable
Lehigh has challenged me in a lot of ways, but it’s also been a place where I’ve felt so supported by everyone I have met. Overall, the sense of community here is unbeatable, and it has made my experience that much more meaningful.
College:
P.C. Rossin College of Engineering & Applied Science
Academics:
Major:
Civil Engineering
Hometown:
Hoboken, NJ
Activities:
Varsity Swim Team and C.O.A.C.H. Program Volunteer
Q: What is one thing you would want a prospective student to know about Lehigh?
A: One special thing about Lehigh is that everyone within the community wants you to succeed. Here, professors are always open to your questions and are eager to help you access all the amazing resources available. You’re constantly surrounded by people who are as driven as they are supportive.
Q: What is your favorite thing about Lehigh?
A: My favorite thing about Lehigh is the people I have met! It is so easy to find your people at such a connected school. After my first week here, I had already made friends who I'm sure will last a lifetime. Overall, the sense of community here is unbeatable, and it has made my experience that much more meaningful.
Q: Why did you decide to do the Explore Lehigh program versus starting with an undeclared major in just one college? What has been the most surprising realization or eye-opening experience you’ve had while going through this program?
A: I initially applied to Lehigh as an undecided major in the College of Business because I knew Lehigh was where I wanted to be, but I wasn’t yet sure which path I wanted to take. When I found out about the Explore Lehigh program, it stood out to me because I wouldn't be tied to a single college and could take courses across all four colleges. During my first semester, I explored my interests through a variety of courses and the Explore Lehigh seminar. We had guest speakers, projects, and more that pushed us to think about the kind of life we want and work backward to possible career paths. The most surprising realization for me came from a guest speaker who encouraged us not to avoid things just because they seem difficult, emphasizing that learning challenging things is the point of being here. That stuck with me and ultimately influenced my decision to pursue engineering. I'm pushing myself to develop strong problem-solving skills to keep as many opportunities open for me as possible in the future.
Q: Between academics and athletics, how have you found balance and support within the Lehigh community?
A: Being a student-athlete has shaped my experience at Lehigh. Balancing academics, swimming, and everything else isn't easy, but it’s pushed me to become more disciplined and manage my time better. At the same time, it’s also given me a built-in community and some of my closest friendships. Overall, Lehigh has challenged me in a lot of ways, but it’s also been a place where I’ve felt so supported by everyone I have met.
Q: What inspired you to become a C.O.A.C.H. Program volunteer? What’s been the best part of that experience?
A: I was inspired to become a C.O.A.C.H. volunteer because I wanted to give back to the Lehigh community in a meaningful way, especially alongside my teammates. It felt like a great opportunity to use our time to support others beyond athletics. Through the program, I helped with things like packing bags of food for kids to take home over the weekend, restocking the food pantry, and running a field day where we got kids involved in sports. The best part of it was knowing we were helping those who needed it.
Q: We’re a community of problem solvers—what is one specific challenge you’re passionate about contributing to solving?
A: Although I'm still narrowing down my interests, right now I’m most drawn to the challenge of balancing urban development with environmental protection. Cities are constantly growing, but I think it’s important to design spaces that support both people and the environment in the long term.
Q: If you had to sum up your Lehigh journey so far in three authentic-to-you words, what would they be?
A: Motivating, Challenging, Memorable
Q: Where is your study spot of choice on campus?
A: My favorite study spot is either the 6th floor of the E.W. Fairchild-Martindale Library (FML), since that’s where the swim team usually studies, and I always feel supported if I have questions, or the common room in my dorm for late nights. During midterm and final seasons, though, I usually go to Linderman since it’s so quiet and easy to focus.
Q: What is your favorite food spot, either on campus or in SouthSide Bethlehem?
A: My favorite place to eat on the SouthSide of Bethlehem is probably the Goose. It’s a small sandwich shop right by campus, inexpensive, and the sandwiches are really good. Although I eat most of my meals at Rathbone for convenience, the Goose is definitely my favorite when I want to eat off-campus.