Three College of Engineering students recently earned Tennessee Society of Professional Engineers (TSPE) scholarships.
Kelli Grissom, Kristin Miranda, and Katherine Krouse—who are majoring in civil, industrial, and chemical engineering, respectively—received the news at the TSPE’s banquet, which helped raise funds for area educators in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
The honor includes $3,500 to be spent in their educational pursuits. That could include everything from basic expenses to study abroad.
“I had been looking for scholarships to help with my goal of studying abroad when [International Coordinator of Engineering, Academic and Student Affairs] Judith Mallory told me about the TSPE scholarship,” said Krouse. “It means a lot to me to win this scholarship, to represent them, and to hopefully make them proud by utilizing some of the funds to take part in an alternative spring break trip helping build houses in Belize.”
The students said winning the scholarships helps validate their hard work in and out of the classroom.
Miranda said her time as an engineering student has been one of the “greatest experiences of my life.” She said participating in the engineering ambassadors program, serving as an officer for the Institute of Industrial Engineers, internships, and a study abroad trip to London have enriched her experience.
“The past three years have been filled with not only academics but also opportunities to grow in knowledge outside of the classroom,” said Miranda. “I am so grateful for the opportunities that I have been offered while at UT, and I am excited for what is to come during my final year.”
Grissom said helping to build an orphanage in Romania and studying climate change and glaciology in Austria propelled her on her career path.
“Both opportunities strengthened my passion for learning and for the engineering profession,” she said.
Grissom said being involved with the American Society of Civil Engineers has helped her network, learn, and build communication skills with some of the key figures in the industry.
In addition to the initial scholarship, each student is now entered into the national competition, which carries a prize of $20,000.
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CONTACT:
David Goddard (865-974-0683, david.goddard@utk.edu)