My name is Grace Harvey, and I’m a senior in Materials Science and Engineering. This is my second year as an MSE Student Ambassador. I originally started in Biomedical Engineering, but the supportive MSE community, diverse research opportunities, and the field’s versatility led me to change paths. I’ve been involved in undergraduate research for nearly two years in Dr. Tracy’s nanomagnetism group, contributing to multiple projects. This past summer, I interned at NAVAIR in Jacksonville, where I conducted engineering failure analyses, performed mechanical testing on polymers and composites, worked with aerospace-grade materials, and supported shelf-life extension initiatives. Outside the lab, I’m active in the Society of Women Engineers, advocating for and empowering women in engineering. After graduation, I plan to further my education and eventually participate in government and/or military research. I’m excited to serve as an MSE Ambassador again welcoming new students and building community within the department.

Hi! My name is Grace Meyer, and I’m a senior majoring in Materials Science and Engineering at NC State. I originally entered NC State as a Computer Science major, but quickly fell in love with MSE for its unique blend of physics, chemistry, and the way it explains how materials behave. The welcoming and supportive MSE department made me feel right at home from the start. I've had the opportunity to intern in the failure analysis groups at both NAVAIR and Kyocera-AVX, where I focused on mishap investigations and root cause analysis. These experiences have deepened my passion for failure analysis and helped shape my career goals. My dream is to one day work as a materials scientist for a Formula 1 team. This past summer, I studied abroad at Nagoya University in Japan through their Advanced Automotive Engineering program. While there, I toured a variety of factories and research facilities including Toyota, Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki. Which all gave me incredible insight into global engineering practices. On campus, I serve as a group leader for College Mentors for Kids and am proud to be an MSE Ambassador. I look forward to connecting with new students and sharing what makes this department so special.

My name is Taylor Sharp. I am a senior pursuing a degree in Materials Science and Engineering and a minor in Environmental Sciences. When I entered college, I did not know what MSE was, but after attending one of the E102 EFY sessions, I learned about the tight-knit community and the variety of opportunities that a major in materials science brings. I am very involved in the MSE department, undergraduate research, and also dedicated to NC State's music department. I serve as one of the drum majors for the Power Sound of the South Marching Band and as a band assistant for the basketball pep band. After graduating, I hope to pursue graduate education and complete a masters degree. After that I am very interested in working in industry research & development with a sustainability focus. 

My name is Avery Smith and I am a junior majoring in Materials Science and Engineering with a concentration in Biomaterials and a minor in Data Science and Analytics. I chose MSE because I wanted to create new materials that work for the needs of people but do not harm the environment. At NC State I am an active member in the Society of Women Engineers and Engineers Without Borders. In Engineers Without Borders I work with my team to build a solar energy system for a school in Sierra Leone. This December, I actually traveled to Sierra Leone and helped install the first part of the system! Additionally, I am an undergraduate researcher in the Data-Driven Organic Materials Lab with Dr. Seifrid, where I combine my love of organic chemistry and my interest in data analysis to synthesize materials using automated systems. In my free time I love playing with my dog Olive, who I adopted this summer. I am excited to serve as an MSE ambassador and meet new people!

My name is Julia Kalinina, and I am a junior in Materials Science and Engineering. I was drawn to this field through my passion for sustainability and how engineering applications can be applied to make a significant impact in advancing materials. On campus, I’m involved in Society of Women Engineers, Materials Advantage, and volunteer with Camp Kesem. In Spring 2025, I studied abroad at the University of Wollongong in Australia, where I had the opportunity to explore how MSE courses are taught in a different academic setting. This fall, I will be conducting research focused on sustainability and nanotechnology with Dr. Jones. After graduating, I plan to pursue graduate studies through the ABM program at NC State. As an MSE Ambassador, I am excited to continue serving my community, all while learning more about the MSE department!

My name is Mackenzie Chorzelewski, and I am a junior in Materials Science and Engineering. I started at NC State in the Textiles program, but joined after taking MSE 201. I really enjoyed learning about what makes up the materials we use on a daily basis and how material properties form. I am currently interested in going into sustainable mining and material production after I graduate. I have been doing research at the Textile Protection and Comfort Center using silicone samples to detect harmful compounds that fire investigators are exposed to. In summer 2025, I studied abroad in London with the United Kingdom: STEM and Liberal Studies in London program! On campus, I am involved in Alpha Omega Epsilon, the Cosmetic Chemistry Club, Material Advantage, and more. In my free time, I love going on hikes and spending time outdoors. I am so excited for the opportunity to be an MSE ambassador and help others learn more about our program!

My name is Garrett Wight, and I'm from Cornelius, North Carolina. I'm currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Materials Science and Engineering with a minor in Mathematics. I'm passionate about material creation and design, especially in applications related to automotive, aerospace, and environmental sustainability. My research focuses on biomaterials as environmentally friendly alternatives to plastics, I've been involved in laboratory research analyzing the tensile properties of biodegradable plastics synthesized from biomass DNA, which has deepened my interest in material performance and fabrication. I'm also part of Pack Motorsports Baja SAE off road-racing team, where I serve as the Ergonomics and Composites Design Lead. In this role, I design and fabricate custom carbon fiber parts for the race car.

My name is Mason Kempf and I am a sophomore majoring in Materials Science and Engineering with a concentration in Nanomaterials. My interest in this area of study began when I was in middle school science class learning about how different atomic structures can wildly vary an object’s physical properties. I am further fascinated by the role of materials in the production of computer nano chips and hope to pursue a career in this field. 

Outside of MSE, I am an active member of the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity and I enjoy playing pickle ball, walking my dogs, and going to the gym in my free time. I am excited to be an MSE Ambassador and getting new people excited about the awesome field as well.