Stevens Institute of Technology: Admissions Blog

The Diverse Pursuits of a Stevens Student

What do aviation, beekeeping, writing and engineering have in common? James Clague (BE, ’12) is passionate about each of these diverse interests and hopes to incorporate them all as he moves forward in his studies and career.

Drawn to Stevens for many reasons, James has always enjoyed writing, but wanted to follow in his family’s footsteps and study engineering. Stevens’ Engineering Management program seemed like a perfect fusion of technology and communication, and that, coupled with our co-op program, sealed the deal for him. With two co-op semesters at UPS and CB Richard Ellis behind him, James is thankful for Stevens’ ideal location, accessible to many well-known organizations. On-campus James is the president of the Stevens Investment Group, in addition to being a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon and Formula SAE, and participating in intramural sports.

Off-campus, James is just as active. More than six years ago, he and a close family friend discovered bees in a chimney, and after contacting a local beekeeper, decided to start a hive of their own. Over the next couple years, they met other beekeepers, learned how to buy bees, process honey, keep the bees alive during the winter months and introduce a Queen. They have expanded that one hive and now James is a partner in a success honey company called Blue Grass Honey. James is charged with selling the honey their bees produce, and coordinates many of these sales in the tri-state area. He has been integral in determining how to package and label the honey, and how to market it to local businesses and through their website.

This experience has been important for James. He said: “It’s been great learning how to take care of and manage the bees. It actually helped me in my co-op assignment at CBRE as I had to take care of buildings and manage projects.”

Not only has he been involved in beekeeping for many years, but James has also been pursuing aviation. At 15, he attended ground school, and at 17, James received his pilot’s license for small aircraft. His family has a history in aviation: his father is a commercial pilot and his grandfather built his own plane. Currently James has logged 70 hours of flight time and is working with his father and his brother to build their own plane.

James is hoping that his diverse interests will converge after graduation. He would like to work in the aviation field, and one day pursue a Master’s degree in Engineering Management or an MBA. In the meantime, he’s looking forward to another co-op semester and discovering all that lies ahead at Stevens and beyond.

A Family Affair

Following in an older sibling’s footsteps isn’t always easy, but Marc Mitchell is eager to do just that by forging his own path at Stevens. Inspired by his brother’s experiences here and driven by his passion for math and the sciences, Marc (’13) is planning to study biomedical and chemical engineering. He says of his time at Stevens thus far: “Once you get here, you don’t want to leave!”

Marc says his brother Michael (BE/ME ’09), who is currently at Cornell pursuing his PhD, gave him some recommendations for navigating his way around Stevens and offered some helpful hints. One thing in particular that Michael participated in and encouraged Marc to do is co-op. Marc says: “Michael had such an amazing experience with co-op. It’s a no-brainer that I would want to do it too.” Some other activities that Marc would like to get involved with include club sports, the Biomedical Engineering Society, and Greek life.

His own Stevens experience began during the City Life Pre-orientation, which Marc feels gave him a new perspective on this area, despite having grown up only an hour away. In addition, it provided an opportunity to form a good group of friends before the semester officially started. Michael advised that finding a balance among school, work, friends and life is important, and that is something that Marc is keeping in mind during his time here.

Though he just kicked off his freshman year, Marc knows that he would like to pursue his Master’s degree in the future. His goals are limitless and inspiring: he hopes to discover something or create something new – like a tool for doctors that makes everything else obsolete – and revolutionize his field. He says, “I was very anxious to come here. High school was fun and prepares you for college, but college prepares you for life. I know Stevens will very integral in that preparation for me.”

The Power of Placement

Three years ago, Rukyah Hennessey made the decision to transfer to Stevens. Now, she is poised to graduate with a BE in Chemical Engineering and a ME in Environmental Engineering, and to begin her career as an associate scientist with Schering-Plough.

“I’m really happy I came here,” Rukyah says. “One of the key reasons I transferred was because of Stevens reputation for exceptional placement, and it really paid off.” Rukyah worked with the Office of Career Development and began the interview process at the end of the fall semester. She received her offer early in the spring semester, and will start at Schering-Plough in July, where she will also work towards her Professional Engineering license.

During her time at Stevens, Rukyah was a member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineering (AICE). She also held two internships, the first in environmental consulting and the second in the food industry, which is when she discovered her interest in working in the pharmaceutical industry.

Rukyah says: “Stevens students are still getting interviews – and jobs – despite the current economy. Because I am graduating from Stevens, I was able to secure a great job early in my last semester. I don’t think that would have been achievable elsewhere.”

Keeping Stevens in the Family

Michael Mitchell is just a couple days away from Commencement, where he will graduate with a BE in Biomedical Engineering and a ME in Materials Science. After graduation, he will be attending Cornell University where he will pursue a Ph.D. in the biomedical field. From there, he hopes to become a professor and continue to conduct research.

During his time at Stevens, Michael was involved with co-op, Tau Beta Phi, Alpha Epsilon Delta, Habitat for Humanity and the Biomedical Engineering Society. Recently, he completed his Senior Design project, h2pro, with much acclaim. He and his team members received the Center for Environmental Systems HydroGlobe award, they won the student technology pitch Olympics, and earned a spot at the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering national competition.

Getting involved is something Michael really enjoyed during his time at Stevens. He says: “Everyone at Stevens is so helpful, they really want you to succeed. I encourage students to go out and explore their interests, whether it is research or clubs or organizations. There are lots of opportunities at Stevens and always someone there to help you develop yourself.”

Michael’s father, John Mitchell, is effusive about the Stevens experience, and credits his son’s education with providing him opportunities for the future. Mr. Mitchell says: “As far as my wife and I are concerned, this was a terrific five years. Back in August 2004 we dropped off a boy and soon we will see a young man graduate with both an undergraduate and a graduate degree.”

The Mitchell family’s time at Stevens won’t end next week though. Michael’s younger brother, Marc, has chosen to attend Stevens and will begin his studies here in the fall. After showing an interest in science and engineering, Michael encouraged Marc to explore Stevens. “I like that Marc is coming here. He is going to have a lot of opportunities at Stevens. I will help guide him, but I also want him to be able to forge his own path.”

Mr. Mitchell is also thrilled that Marc has also chosen to attend Stevens. He says: “I can only hope that Marc has the same experience as his brother. I am very confident that he will.”

A Freshman Perspective: Nick Catania, '12

As the end of his freshman year approaches, Nick Catania (Engineering/Physics and Music & Technology, ’12) reflects on his freshman year at Stevens. Originally intent on attending a music school for piano and composition, Nick realized that he wanted to explore his passion for building. While at a music fair, he learned about Stevens and the unique way he could combine his love for music with his interest in building. Nick says: “After I looked into Stevens a bit more, I realized it was a hidden gem… the programs really appealed to me, especially when I learned I could study both engineering and music.”

After visiting Stevens during the Accepted Students Reception, the deal was sealed. Nick knew this was the place for him: “I loved the location, and the fact that it is a small, tight community. The professors really made me feel welcome too.” During his first year, Nick has gotten involved in the Jazz Band, the Society of Physics Students, Bandwidth, the Stevens choir, the sax ensemble, and he serves as a freshman senator on the Student Government Association.

“I love it,” Nick says about his first year. He values the limitless possibilities of his studies and the ability to maneuver between both his majors. He credits the “cool projects” and “non-generic, really interesting courses” as highlights of his freshman year. In addition, he says that the lectures and seminars that Stevens hosts are vital to the experience here. Nick feels this is an opportunity he wouldn’t get just anywhere and encourages his fellow students to take advantage of all that Stevens has to offer.

“It’s crucial for students to get out there, meet other people, network,” Nick asserts. “Come to campus, see and feel the community. Undergrads are valued here, professors really care about incoming students. Stevens has been such a motivational experience so far.”
All that and it’s only his first year!

Senior Sets Her Sights on Optometry School

There are a lot of sayings out there about the eyes, but for one Stevens student, the eyes are soon to be a career. Senior Diana Espaillat (Chemical Biology) will begin graduate school at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in the fall, where she will work to receive her Doctor of Optometry degree.

Intrigued by eyes from a young age, Diana came to Stevens for the exceptional science background she knew she’d receive here. She originally considered medical school, but after working in a hospital, knew it was optometry she was really interested in. Diana says: “I’ve had the opportunity to job shadow several optometrists. It was so rewarding to observe them. I love the idea of helping people – especially children – to see.”

During her time at Stevens, Diana has been involved in the Latin American Association, Stevens Christian Fellowship, Gear & Triangle and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. She also participated in the Stevens Technical Enrichment Program (STEP), which she felt was like a “mini-family” that was always extremely helpful to her throughout her entire time here.

Diana also credits the Office of Career Development with helping her prepare for her next step. She says: “The relationship their staff has with the students is great. They gave me great advice for my grad school application, including help with my personal statement. Plus they really prepared me for my interview at the school.” In addition, Diana feels that her professors always went above and beyond to help her and her classmates, saying they provided guidance and support throughout the program.

As she moves forward to the next step on her path to becoming an optometrist, Diana looks forward to getting involved at her new school the same way she did here. She says: “I have learned so much from my professors, and from fellow students at Stevens. Everyone here is so supportive, you are a face and a name. Stevens has taught me many things that I will take with me, and I feel prepared to conquer any challenges that come my way.”

The Ducks Take Flight

They made it to the NCAA Championships, and now they are poised to continue that success off the field as the seniors on the Stevens men’s soccer team move forward into their professional lives.

The four graduating seniors – Chris Greenfield (Civil), Craig Moquin (Mechanical), Jason Nachman (Civil) and Harry Papademas (Electrical) – have all secured post-graduation placements, either in full-time jobs or grad school. Coach Tim O’Donohue says: “I am very proud of all of the seniors. They were all great student-athletes and a true pleasure to coach and mentor. They will be sorely missed and I know that Stevens has prepared each of them for their next challenge."

Jason will be attending grad school where he will pursue his Master’s degree in structural engineering. He has been accepted to Penn State, North Carolina State and University of Maryland. Though he hasn’t decided which one he’ll begin this fall, Jason says: “After completing my Master’s degree, I hope to secure a job with a structural engineering firm, and ultimately obtain my Professional Engineers License.”

Chris has accepted a full-time position with Bank of America’s Global Equities Group. His job is set to begin in July. Harry secured a position as an Assistant Engineer with Jersey Central Power and Light. He will be located in Morristown.

Craig will be working at Bechtel Plant Machinery, Inc (BPMI), and is planning to move to Pittsburgh after graduation. “I have not been assigned to a specific group in the company yet, but I will be involved with either fleet support or the design of equipment used on naval ships and submarines,” he says of his position.

From a history-making season to successful and exciting next steps, we wish them the best of luck!

Mickey, Minnie and Erik Solan

When most kids visit Disney, they immediately love it – the rides, the characters, the energy, the atmosphere. But when Erik Solan (BE, ’11) first visited Disney, he didn’t just love it, he wanted to be a part of it.

Erik’s dream of working for Disney Imagineering is one of the reasons he came to Stevens, where he is majoring in Civil Engineering and minoring in Art & Technology. He says: “My goal is to be in structural design, which is a great way to combine my passion for art and my passion for building.” Another key factor for Erik’s decision to attend Stevens was the Co-op program. After attending an open interview session that Disney was holding in the area, Erik worked with the co-op office and soon became the first Stevens Disney co-op student.

During his first co-op semester, in spring 2008, Erik worked as a Monorail pilot at Walt Disney World. While there, he took classes with Disney engineers and was able to secure a professional internship through the relationships he built. Erik plans to return to Disney next month, where he will work as a structural engineer through January 2010, assessing and performing maintenance on the rides in the park. His experiences have led him to be named the Disney representative for Stevens, helping other students who are looking for internships with Disney.

In addition to his role as Disney rep, and his participation in co-op (his second co-op term, in fall 2008, was with Boswell Engineering), Erik is a member of the Verge Art Exhibition board for Art & Tech students, on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade crew, and a columnist for The Stute. Recently, Erik received an Engineering Excellence Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC).

“Stevens is allowing me the opportunity to pursue my dreams,” Erik says. “Everyone here is so supportive. My professors and the faculty, plus the co-op office and the rest of the staff, all want the students to succeed here. They help us the entire way.”

Zack Freedman Attends the 2009 Game Developers Conference

Held from March 23-27 in San Francisco, the 2009 Game Developers Conference (GDC) is where game development professionals gather to share ideas and build the skills the industry needs. As in previous years, the International Game Developers Association (IGDA) awards scholarships for students around the world to attend the GDC, and this year, one of Stevens own was a recipient.

Zack Freedman (Business & Technology, ’11) was chosen as one of only 25 students from schools across the globe to attend the 2009 GDC. Originally interested in video game production by the idea of turning a concept into a reality, Zack said of going to the conference: “I am incredibly excited. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

When a friend told him about the International Video Game Union, he decided to apply for a scholarship, which is what led him to this one. An active member of the Stevens Game Development Club (SGDC), Zack had already interacted with the Northern NJ IGDA, giving him access to lead designers for legendary video games. The GDC was the natural next step, and Zack took advantage of his time at the conference. “It was spectacular. It was great to be surrounded by gaming students in this forum and to learn from people all around the world, with different backgrounds and different interests in gaming,” Zack said.

At the GDC, Zack met game-industry veterans and power players from top video game design and production companies like Bungie, Maxis, Blizzard, Harmonix, Bethesda, BioWare and more. He had access to cutting-edge, unreleased independent games and was able to interact with their developers in person. Networking opportunities abounded and Zack made sure to be as involved as possible in discussions and lessons. His engagement paid off and he was even contacted by an independent game studio for his resume.

Moving on from the GDC, Zack plans to participate in Microsoft’s Imagine Cup next year. He will also still be active with SGDC and the Stevens Philosophy Club. After he graduates, he hopes to get into gaming – eventually in production, but maybe starting with design in the video game industry. Zack says: “Whatever I do, Stevens will well-prepare me for it.”

Graduate School on the Horizon

Graduating seniors aren’t just busy securing jobs for after graduation, many Stevens students are hard at work on graduate school applications. Jake Mower, a senior Engineering Physics major, has that part behind him and now has to decide which graduate school to attend.

Jake, who credits his involvement in the Technogenesis Summer Scholars Program as a big part of his success, has been accepted into five prestigious graduate programs. With offers to attend Columbia, Stanford, University of California at Santa Barbara, University of Rochester and Cornell, Jake will begin his graduate studies at one of those schools in the fall. He will pursue his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a concentration in Quantum Information Processing, an emerging field in which Jake hopes to make his career.

Through the Office of Academic Entrepreneurship at Stevens, Jake was able to participate in several diverse research projects during his time here. Beginning in the summer after his freshman year, Jake was a part of a research project each summer, allowing him to discover a whole range of research options and to hone in on his true passion. He says: “As easy as it is at Stevens to get involved with research, students still need to put forth the effort to become fully integrated into the projects. Talk to the professors, write the proposals… your research experience is very important when it comes to grad school applications.”

During his time at Stevens, Jake has also been active in many of our music and dramatic organizations and clubs, including the concert band, jazz band, jazz combo, Stevens Dramatic Society, and the orchestra for DeBaun productions. Jake is also a member of the Society of Stevens Physics Students.

As Jake moves on to pursue his Ph.D., he remains committed to research and the power that research experience has for students. He asserts: “The research experience that Stevens students get is so important. That experience gives us the advantage. It really makes a name for us as Stevens students, sets us apart and makes us highly competitive.” Jake can name at least five esteemed schools that completely agree.