Aarushi Jadhav

What made you choose your major?

I knew I wanted to be an engineer and that I enjoyed chemistry, and that I wanted to go into space exploration. MatSE provided me with the opportunity to learn interesting and amazing things, and also with the ability to specialize in something that I knew would help me reach my dream job.

What student organizations and activities are you involved in?

I'm an EMS Ambassador and I'm involved with alpha Kappa Delta Phi, an Asian-interest sorority, and I am the Vice President of Asylum Music Club. I also conduct my own research as part of my honors thesis requirements.

What is the best class you’ve taken at Penn State and why?

The best class I’ve taken at Penn State so far is probably MATSE 400: Crystal Chemistry. Not only does it cover some of the coolest chemistry related topics I’d ever learned, but it’s also taught by Dr. Susan Trolier-McKinstry, who is so knowledgeable and passionate about both the content and her role as an educator. Her ability to contextualize the topics we were learning in class with real-world engineering applications is truly amazing, and it helps re-ignite the interest and awe many students possess for engineering.

What is one piece of advice you would give to prospective students?

One piece of advice I would give to prospective students is to step out of your comfort zone! Look at schools and programs you normally wouldn’t consider. You may learn to love unexpected things about them that may change your mind.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in college so far?

The most important lesson I’ve learned is to prioritize my health and well-being above all else. I had to realize on my own that I couldn’t do everything by myself, and it forced me to choose the things in my college experience that meant the most to me in order to keep my schedule healthy. Overall, I’ve learned what I value most, and that my health can never come second.