I’ve always had a natural curiosity about how things work. As a kid, I spent hours building LEGO Technic cars — not just for fun, but because I was fascinated by how the gears, axles, and fake motors all worked together to create movement. I would build and rebuild them, trying to make them faster, stronger, or more complex. Back then, I didn’t realize it, but those early experiences were the start of my path toward engineering. In high school, that interest became more serious when I took an automotive technology class. It was the first time I got to work on real machines, and I loved it. I enjoyed being hands-on, figuring out how different parts of a vehicle worked together, and learning how to diagnose and fix problems. There was something really satisfying about taking something apart, understanding the issue, and putting it back together better than before. That class gave me confidence and showed me that I had a real passion for mechanical systems. Outside of school, I started helping friends and family work on their cars. Whether it was doing brake jobs, oil changes, or troubleshooting why something wouldn’t start, I found that I enjoyed the challenge. It wasn’t just about turning wrenches — it was about thinking critically, solving problems, and always learning something new. Those experiences made me realize I wanted to turn working on cars and solving issues involving them into something. Choosing to study engineering at Oakland University was an easy decision. I want to take what I’ve learned in garages and turn it into something more — whether that’s working in automotive design, mechanical systems, or another area where I can solve real-world problems. Engineering gives me a chance to combine creativity with logic, and hands-on work with theory. I’m excited to keep learning, to push myself, and to eventually be part of building the kind of technology I grew up admiring. My experiences so far have taught me that I enjoy building things, fixing things, and improving how they work — and that’s exactly what engineering is all about. I’m ready to keep growing in this field and to make a career out of the things I’ve always loved to do. I know the road ahead won’t always be easy, but I’m motivated by the idea that one day, the work I do could help make life better for others.