Shawn

Mechanical Engineering

I became interested in engineering while in high school because math and physics came easily to me, and I had an interest in automobiles. Since I couldn’t be a professional racecar driver due to my visual impairment, I decided to study what made cars, trucks, planes, and other mechanical objects work. I have big ideas for new and improved vehicle designs!

I am currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, along with minors in business, mathematics, and aerospace engineering, at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona. I decided to attend Embry- Riddle Aeronautical University to study mechanical engineering because they have an outstanding reputation for their aerospace program. They have also never had

a blind student attend their university before. I wanted to take the road less traveled, pave the way for others to come, and become more independent by getting out of my comfort zone.

Though I struggled at first with available resources, Embry-Riddle’s disability services center worked hard to provide me with the tools I needed to succeed. My professors, my advisor, and I worked together to make sure all of my classes were accessible, and the Washington State Services for the Blind assisted me in tuition costs and accessible equipment. My family has also supported me and helped obtain materials to assist me in my everyday endeavors.

My goal is to become an engineer in the automotive industry. I want to use STEM to design new vehicles— ones that are safer, more efficient, and more reliable. In order to achieve that success, I will continue to take on tasks with everything I have. One of my favorite quotes is “courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway.” I will continue to utilize all support and services available to me in my quest to achieve my goals. Success and happiness is what you make of it, and only you can decide whether you will be at the top of the mountain or at the rock bottom.