Rose Galley
April 13, 2015
Rose Galley
Colleges: Engineering and Honors College
Majors: Materials Science Engineering
What is your passion and why do you do what you do?
I’m passionate about using my knowledge to help solve problems and make products better. I love looking at the small details and using those details to draw conclusions.
Why did you choose to graduate with Honors? What was the main benefit for you?
I chose to graduate with Honors because I enjoy challenging myself and learning new things. I really enjoyed taking HONR classes, honors contracting, and conducting research because I got to dive deep into a subject while building relationships with professors. The main benefit was personal growth both within my major through my research and honors contracts and outside my major. I feel these classes made me a well-rounded engineer and a better problem-solver.
Explain your thesis/scholarly project.
My thesis studied the crystallization of cellulose nanocrystal and polymer composites for use in film applications and how it affected the clarity and strength of the films. Cellulose nanocrystals are obtained from natural wood and are biodegradable. Therefore, these materials may be useful for environmentally friendly packaging applications.
How did you get into this research?
I started this research after looking at some of Professor Youngblood’s research work through my department’s website. I went to talk to him as a sophomore and immediately was interested in the possibilities of cellulose nanocrystals and was able to begin research for credit through the Materials Engineering Department.
What were some of the highlights during your college career?
One of the highlights of my college career was my time as the treasurer of the Purdue Society of Women Engineers (SWE). I really enjoyed being able to help the organization further its mission of helping women be encouraged and supported in the study of STEM disciplines. I also was able to attend the SWE national conference in LA through this position which was a great experience.
What was your favorite Honors course and why?
My favorite honors course was “Politics of Popular Culture” taught by Professor Morrison. He was a great professor and it was really fun to explore how movies, music, comics, and sports may be used to assess the political mood of a time period!
Tell us about a few of your extra-curricular activities that played significant roles during your time at Purdue.
I have been very involved in the Purdue Society of Women Engineers throughout my time at Purdue, serving as the Student Affairs Chair, Blog Chair, and Treasurer. I also mentored first-year engineering students through the Engineering Honors Peer Mentoring program. I really enjoyed being able to encourage younger engineering students and potential students through these roles.
What’s next after graduation?
After graduation, I will be working at Rolls Royce in Indianapolis as a materials engineer.
What is one piece of advice you have for underclassmen?
My piece of advice would be to try to take at least one class that is purely for fun during your college career. It is a great way to build relaxation into your schedule!
