Q: Why did you choose to become an engineer?

Spangler: I’ve always loved science, math, and problem solving, and engineering is the perfect combination. I chose chemical engineering because of my love for chemistry and how broadly it can be applied.

Q: What is your favorite engineering course?

Spangler: So far my favorite class was CHEG112, Introduction to Chemical Engineering. While it was very daunting at first, it was the first time I actually felt like a true engineer because the topics were relevant to the real engineering world.

Q: Who is your favorite engineering instructor?

Spangler: My favorite instructor so far was Dr. Vasu Venkateshwaran, a research scientist for Gore who co-taught Thermodynamics II as an academic collaborator. He was clearly very passionate about the subject and was super clear and eloquent in his lectures.

Q: Briefly describe your summer scholar research.

Spangler: I worked in the Kunjapur lab on an enzyme cascade to produce nonstandard amino acids. Over summer 2023, I characterized the enzymes in vitro and began testing for production in vivo using E. Coli.

Q: What’s your favorite study location or hang-out spot on campus?

Spangler: The ISE building; it has the biggest windows, best natural lighting, and Einstein Bros Bagels, of course.

Q: What is your experience as a student athlete like?

Spangler: Being on the rowing team and an engineering major is definitely time consuming, but having the support from my team and the athletics department makes it manageable. My teammates know I always have their back, and they have mine.

Q: What experiences have you had outside the classroom?

Spangler: I’m super excited to be studying abroad this coming winter session in Portugal with Professor S Ismat Shah from the Materials Science and Engineering department. I’m going to be taking physics and the history of Portugal. I am also on the executive team for the Honors Varsity Student Athletes (HVSA) organization which allows honors athletes to get together to destress and help support one another.

Q: What is your dream job?

Spangler: I ultimately want to do research in biopharmaceuticals. I want to make them more available and more affordable for everyone around the world.

Q: What has been your favorite Delaware or Newark experience outside of college?

Spangler: Last fall, my friends and I went to the Cowtown Rodeo, and it was so much fun. They had everything from trick riding to barrel racing to bull riding with a great atmosphere.

Q: What advice do you have for new students?

Spangler: While it’s important to try to make connections right away, it can take time to find your people and that’s ok. Once you do, sharing your college experience with those people will help make it the adventure of a lifetime both inside and outside the classroom.