Born November 8, 2002, in Rochester, New York, Ryan Gustin has distinguished himself through a deep commitment to engineering, leadership, and community involvement. Growing up in Penfield, NY, Ryan Gustin Penn State's narrative is marked by a strong dedication to his professional and personal development.
His academic journey commenced at Plank Road North Elementary in Webster, NY, where, from first to fifth grade, he participated in various sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. Here, his initial interest in technology emerged, notably through his involvement with Lego robotics. This sparked his passion for engineering and set the stage for his future career.
He pursued his secondary education at McQuaid Jesuit High School in Rochester. Embracing the school’s mission to nurture "men for others," he led the McQuaid IgKnighters Robotics Team, specifically in developing the robot's climbing mechanism. His leadership culminated in triumph when their robot and two others scaled to a three-foot platform, securing them the "Excellence in Engineering" award.
At McQuaid, he also mastered using the school's CNC mill to turn digital designs into physical parts from aluminum and steel. His involvement extended beyond robotics; he actively participated in the school’s theater productions, managing complex technical setups that sharpened his project management skills.
Throughout his upbringing, he has been an active community participant. His volunteering at the House of Mercy Homeless Shelter involved distributing holiday gifts and providing warmth and joy to those less fortunate. He also supported individuals with limited family networks through the St. Joseph of Arimathea Pallbearer Ministry.
Additionally, he spent significant time at Maplewood Nursing Home, where he interacted with older people and learned the importance of intergenerational relationships. His dedication to community service was also evident in his annual involvement in the Webster Fireman's Carnival, where he helped support local emergency services and promote community spirit.
His professional experiences include a significant tenure at Oak Hill Country Club, where he worked in various capacities, such as managing golf carts, the bag room, and the driving range. His participation in the 2023 PGA Championship at this venue gave him a thorough understanding of the complexities of organizing major sporting events. Simultaneously, he worked at Hedges Nine Mile Point Restaurant, where he further developed his skills in high-pressure customer service environments.
Since entering Penn State in the fall of 2021 to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, he has engaged actively with the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Penn State Formula Racing team. This involvement has enabled him to bridge the gap between theoretical studies and practical engineering applications.
His internship during the summer of 2023 at DDS Companies in Rochester, NY, involved using AutoCAD to design gas main installation projects. This allowed him to apply his academic knowledge in a practical setting, emphasizing the importance of precision and efficiency in engineering.
Extensive travel has characterized his personal development. It has taken him to places like Italy, Hawaii, and several major U.S. cities, enriching his understanding of cultural and architectural contexts. He maintains an active lifestyle through regular exercise routines and golf and shares insights on engineering, travel, and personal growth on social media platforms.
Ryan Gustin eagerly anticipates graduating from Penn State in May 2025 and starting his career in civil engineering. His semester at the University of Miami inspired him to pursue his professional aspirations in dynamic urban centers such as Miami or New York.
From his early life in New York to his present academic and professional activities at Ryan Gustin Penn State, he embodies a blend of technical proficiency, leadership acumen, and a commitment to service. As he progresses, he remains dedicated to his core values of innovation, service, and excellence, positioning himself to confront the complex challenges of modern infrastructure development while upholding his dedication to social and environmental responsibility.
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