Greeting between two individuals, expressing enthusiasm about meeting each other.
Discussion around the current time of year (spring break).
Personal Updates
Participant A:
Feeling nice but slightly sick.
Expresses excitement about the conversation.
Participant B:
Completed a degree in architectural engineering at CU Boulder.
Graduated about two years ago.
Engaged in conversation to learn more about Participant A's background.
Participant A Background
Educational Status
Junior at Monarch High School.
Extracurricular Activities
Recently participated in the school musical "SpongeBob."
Active in sports: field hockey and swimming.
Involvement in the National Honor Society (NHS).
Participation in Colley's Closet, focusing on suicide and depression presentations in schools.
Involved in choir.
Personal Reflections
Reflection on being busy with classes, particularly mentioning struggles in an Advanced Placement U.S. History (APUSH) class.
Sharing personal anecdotes, such as a gift received from a senior during swimming relating to bonding activities.
Participant A's Spring Break Plans
Current Health Situation
Mention of being sick and upcoming wisdom teeth removal surgery.
Planned Activities
Plan to rest, watch Disney movies, and eat favorite ice cream during recovery.
Nostalgia for classic Disney movies like "Robin Hood," "Little Mermaid," "Princess and the Frog," and "Brave."
Mentioning favorite non-Disney movies: "Pirates of the Caribbean," "The Princess Bride," and "Monty Python and the Holy Grail."
Participant B's Background and Experience in Architectural Engineering
Personal History
Grew up in Colorado, attended NYWAT High School.
Participated in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
Motivations
Interest in math, science, history, and creativity.
Passion for sustainability and addressing climate change.
Chose architectural engineering for its blend of disciplines.
Academic Experience
Attended CU Boulder for architectural engineering.
Focused on energy efficiency and sustainability in building design.
Noted that buildings are significant sources of global carbon emissions.
Current Professional Position
Works as an energy engineer in renewable energy, applying concepts from architectural engineering.
Friends involved in designing buildings and stadiums.
Discussion on Career Paths and Choices in Engineering
Structural vs. Architectural Engineering
Participant A's interest in becoming a structural engineer.
Discussions on the differences between architectural and civil engineering degrees and the potential to specialize in structural engineering within either.
Curriculum Details at CU Boulder
Insight into program structure: beginning with core classes and progressing to electives focused on different engineering disciplines.
Example classes taken: structural, lighting, electrical, and HVAC.
Capstone Project Details
Overview of the senior capstone experience: working in teams to design a building with specified roles.
Important skills related to teamwork and specialization.
Networking and Job Market Insights
Emphasis on the importance of networking and building professional relationships early in college.
Overview of various companies in architectural engineering and structural engineering hiring trends.
Student Experience and Advice
Tips for College Transition
Importance of focusing on quality over quantity in extracurricular activities as academic workloads increase.
Regular discussions with advisors for course planning and career exploration.
Study Abroad Opportunities
Personal recommendation for studying abroad, with examples of experience in Italy focusing on engineering projects.
Importance of planning early for studying abroad, especially in engineering programs.
Software and Practical Learning
Skills Development
Software usage during studies: AutoCAD, SOLIDWORKS, and Revit.
Discussion on the learning curve of Revit, particularly regarding its roofing functions.
Hands-on Experience
Participant A's innovative projects; building models using Revit and laser-cutting in design.
Conclusion and Future Conversations
Scheduling Follow-Up
Plans to send additional resources, including degree plans, company lists, and connections to friends in structural engineering for further inquiry.
Positive encouragement for Participant A’s career path in engineering, with emphasis on staying connected for further assistance.