Humans of Wichita State: Grad Edition - Grace Peterson

Matt Crow/Undergraduate Admissions

Getting involved and being a leader on campus is how Grace got the most out of her undergraduate experience. That is exactly her advice to future students - consider what you want out of college and go get it!

Hometown

Overland Park, Kansas

Degree received

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering with minors in Business Administration and Manufacturing Engineering. Also earned the Emory Lindquist Honors Scholar Track through the Cohen Honors College.

Why did you choose Wichita State University?

Wichita State stood out to me because of its focus on applied learning and its strong sense of community. When I visited campus, I was impressed by how friendly and helpful everyone was! I ultimately chose Wichita State because it offered me an excellent, affordable education with a multitude of opportunities to get involved as a student and prepare for my career.

Which organizations were you involved in?

The Student Ambassador Society, Society of Women Engineers, Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society, Navigators campus ministry, ACE Mentoring Program, International Buddy Program, and Threads Club.

How did being involved with the Student Ambassador Society impact you?

I’ve greatly enjoyed sharing my love for Wichita State through my involvement in SAS. It’s been a privilege to help some of my fellow Shockers experience Wichita State for the first time and learn about all that it has to offer them. The best part of SAS is the people – it’s introduced me to many wonderful current and prospective Shockers.

Which Wichita State faculty or staff member impacted you the most during your time here?

Dr. Wei Wei is a mechanical engineering professor who has encouraged and supported me throughout my time here. I met her in my second semester when she was my mentor in the First-Year Research Experience (FYRE) program, and I had the privilege of working as an undergraduate research assistant in her lab for three years. I learned so much from her mentorship and guidance. I’ve also enjoyed the classes I’ve taken with her, because she’s genuinely kind, caring, and approachable, and she presents concepts in an accessible way. She’s an outstanding faculty member whom I’m thankful to have learned from!

How do you feel about graduating?

It’s hard to believe that I’m already about to graduate, but I’m excited! I’m so thankful for the abundance of amazing opportunities I’ve had at Wichita State and the people who have made my time here so special.

Which experience at Wichita State challenged you the most and what did you take away from that challenge?

Being involved on campus and participating in leadership of four student organizations has been a highlight of my time in college, and it has challenged me to continuously improve in managing my time and energy. I’ve learned to value doing meaningful things well over doing everything, and I’ve learned that saying no to some opportunities allows me to say yes to others. Setting priorities and dedicating my time thoughtfully allows me to more fully enjoy the things I choose to do.

What are your post-grad plans?

After graduation, I’m excited to continue my education by pursuing a Master of Business Administration at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

What advice would you give to incoming students?

Decide what you want to get out of your time in college, and find ways to make that happen. Be proactive in reaching out to people and getting involved. Trying new things and meeting new people are part of what makes college unique. Don’t forget to enjoy the journey!