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Name: Jessica Hendricks
Hometown: Colorado Springs, Colorado
Program: Architectural Engineering

"CU Engineering has caused me to develop a global mindset and identify how I can use my skills to connect with cultures and improve lives around the world." 

I grew up going to school on the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Growing up in Colorado, I am naturally drawn towards the outdoors and I spend a lot of time skiing & climbing, my favorite spot being the First Flatiron! In May 2019 I intend to graduate from CU with a degree in Architectural Engineering and a specialization in Construction Engineering & Management. Throughout my undergraduate, I have been involved with Engineers Without Borders and have worked on clean water projects in both Peru and Guatemala. My EWB trip to Northern Peru in 2017 fostered my passion for humanitarian development, and I hope to work in both domestic and international developing communities after graduation. 

How did you choose to study Architectural Engineering at CU? What sets apart CU’s Civil Engineering Program?

I chose to study Architectural Engineering at CU because of the application and integration of design with engineering. This program particularly stuck out to me because of the small class sizes and skilled and attentive professors. 

What enrichment activities (including internships, research, study abroad, etc) have you been involved in at CU? How have these affected your experience here?

Along with Engineers Without Borders, my experience at CU has been enriched through studying abroad in Sydney, Australia and being an undergraduate research assistant. Studying abroad provided me the opportunity to connect with students and professors on the other side of the planet, and gain a global perspective on engineering and humanitarian development. After studying abroad, I started working with a PhD student on post-disaster reconstruction methods in the Philippines and started learning the methods and depths behind research. 

What is a highlight of your academic career at CU? This could be a class, lab, project or research.

The highlight of my academic career at CU has been connecting with my professors and classmates on subjects that go beyond typical course curriculum. The professors and faculty in the CEAE department has a vast amount of experience, knowledge and resources that have enriched my education and allow me to understand a variety of fields I can pursue after graduation.

What do you plan to do after graduating from CU? How has your educational experience helped you prepare for this?

After completing my undergraduate, I intend to pursue my masters here at CU in Structural Engineering with an emphasis on Engineering in Developing Communities. My whole undergraduate career has inspired me to keep seeking knowledge and asking questions, and the program at CU fosters student growth while providing global experience. Ultimately, I hope to work as an engineer on structural projects in dynamic developing contexts, such as natural hazard zones or refugee camps.