Schloder, Samantha

Why you chose Pitt:

My mom is a graduate from the University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering, with a master’s degree in chemical engineering. She loves mathematics and science with such a passion, that while raising me, she passed on these interests to me. Through a boundless supply of chemistry sets, yearly trips to the science museums, and extreme enthusiasm when dressing me up like Einstein for Halloween, my mom showed me a world of curiosity. A part of me has a desire to be great just like my mom, and I can’t think of a better way than to pursue my curiosity in the field of engineering at the same college she attended.

Advice to First Year Engineering Student:

Learning to manage your time wisely can make a huge impact on your college career. It may be tempting to start college by participating in every activity possible, but sometimes this approach is unrealistic especially with the coursework of an engineer. Specialize on what you love and go from there.

Extracurricular involvement and Future Goals:

Currently I am involved in Engineers Without Borders and in Material Advantage as well. Engineers Without Borders is a service club, where I lead the public health team in our international and local projects. We focus on providing solutions such as water filtration devices that will last more than just a week, but for five to ten years down the road. In Material Advantage, I gain membership to multiple professional societies that continue to help me as a student build my network. I plan to get my degree in material science and engineering, along with a certificate in engineering for the humanities. After that, I am unsure of what path I will take; but I do know whatever I do pick will follow my passion.