Student Profiles
Ashlee Long
Civil Engineering
Hometown: Durham, NC
What has been the best part of being a student in the College of Engineering?
The faculty, staff, and even other students in the college have really become a support system for me. Whenever I feel like giving up, there is always someone there to encourage me and to give me that boost that I need to keep going. Even when those final exams come around! Especially then!
What advice would you give to a student who is exploring the Lee College of Engineering?
I would say that the best thing to do is to figure out what engineering means to you, then compare it to what engineering means to the college. If they are the same, then the Lee College of Engineering may be right for you. Also, remember that though UNC Charlotte is not as big as other universities, it offers so much more than many of those larger schools. In the College of Engineering here, you are not just some face in the crowd. When you set foot of this campus, you have a name and a voice and they both mean something.
How have MAPS Coaching or Supplemental Instruction helped you become successful?
My MAPS coach gave me so much insight on my courses and on my future here at the college. She also became another person within the college that I could depend on. I knew that I could go to her for anything and she would not hesitate to help me. SI was great because with SI, having a bad teacher did not mean that I would automatically fail my tests.
What advice would you give a new student for succeeding in engineering/ET?
Succeeding in engineering is not a matter of having the right tools, it all comes down to what is in your heart. No matter how smart you are, you will not succeed in this field if you don’t have a passion for it. So research engineering, and talk to as many people as you can to see if you truly do have a passion for it. If you do, then you are only steps away from your success.
Caleb Yow
Mechanical Engineering
Hometown: Kannapolis, NC
Why did you decide to study engineering?
I have always enjoyed building things with my hands or designing different parts on paper. I really knew I wanted a Mechanical Engineering degree when I tried to send GM an idea for a suspension when I was thirteen. They told me that they could not look at it because I was not one of their engineers.
What impressed you most about UNC Charlotte’s engineering/engineering technology program?
I especially liked the motorsports program because it is such a good opportunity to apply what is learned in the classes. I look forward to when I can start working with one of the (student) teams next year.
What has been the best part of being a student in the College of Engineering?
With the classes I have been in so far, the class size has been about perfect. I am able to talk to my professors if I have a question or problem. I have learned a lot that I will use to build upon as I continue through the college.
What advice would you give a new student for succeeding in engineering/ET?
The professors are very helpful so always try to seek their assistance when you have a problem. Also be careful with the details- little mistakes can add up but if you can stay on top of your assignments everything should go smoothly.
Keith Rowsey
Mechanical Engineering Technology
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
What impressed you most about UNC Charlotte’s engineering/engineering technology program?
What impressed me most was how much help that the engineering and ET programs provide. There are ample opportunities to get help. There are so many advisors and teachers around that are 100% devoted to seeing you succeed. The atmosphere is tremendous.
What advice would you give to a student who is exploring the Lee College of Engineering?
It is a good idea to really explore all the opportunities that the Lee College of Engineering provides. There are so many avenues to get help and to succeed. Also, the facilities are extremely nice, allowing you access to pretty much anything you need.
How have MAPS Coaching or Supplemental Instruction helped you become successful?
The MAPS program helped me become successful by helping me adjust to the College of Engineering quickly. Getting the insight of a current student who had already taken the classes that I was taking was great. My coach was able to help me with homework as well as show me the best possible route to succeed during my freshman year.
What advice would you give a new student for succeeding in engineering/ET?
The best advice I could give them is to not be afraid to ask others for help. Take advantage of every opportunity to get help. Get involved with the MAPS program and SI. It is also imperative that you manage your time wisely. There is a lot of work involved with an ET degree, but if you work hard and manage your time appropriately, you will do fine.