Meena

Activities

• Society of Women Engineers – An educational and service organization that promotes women in engineering
• Service Director for the Undergraduate Materials Organization – This group serves as a liaison between faculty and undergraduates, and acts as an umbrella organization for several MatSE groups
• Oratorio Society – An advanced mixed-voice chorus
• Women’s Glee Club – A women’s choral organization

Where is your favorite spot on campus to study?

The student lounges in the Materials Science and Engineering Building (MSEB) are great. There are two cozy rooms with couches and big tables, a large chalkboard, and hot drinks, a toaster, and a microwave are available if I get hungry! I also like to go to the Union because I can eat, sleep, study, and take a break all in one place, and there are plenty of different rooms of available if I need a change of scenery.

Where is your favorite spot on campus to hang out with your friends?

Any one of the local coffeehouses like Espresso Royale or Moonstruck. The atmosphere is really relaxed. My friends and I will bring some board games or a deck of cards and just chill out after a long day.

Where is your favorite spot on campus to relax?

The Quad! I usually like to throw a Frisbee around with someone, play catch, or just sit back and people-watch (or dog-watch!).

What is your favorite club or organization on campus that you are involved with?

The Society of Women Engineers has provided me with several unique opportunities to advance my leadership and teamwork skills, network with professionals in industry and academia, and meet a great group of girls in every field of engineering here at UIUC. As a member one of the largest RSOs on campus, I#ve had many chances to make a strong impact on the College, the University, and the community.

What do you like most about your major?

I like that MatSE is challenging, dynamic and essential to understanding the very fundamentals of how our world works. There are many opportunities for interdisciplinary work, and since it is such a close-knit department you can always find support and encouragement from students, staff and faculty.

What are your favorite courses in your major?

My favorite courses have been MatSE 350: Introduction to Polymers and MatSE 352: Polymer Characterization Laboratory. Both courses were taught by engaging professors who encouraged hands-on learning and active discussion in the classroom. I looked forward to going to class every day.

Describe your most memorable experience at Illinois.

I was selected to be one of two students in the 2006 “Big Brains” calendar, produced by the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science & Technology. The calendar showcases the talent found at Illinois.

Why do you belong at Illinois?

Being a student here has given me the chance to make a personal connection with several professors, develop friendships with many inspiring people, and work cooperatively with some of the brightest minds in the world. The University of Illinois is my home away from home.