I was lucky enough to interview Karli Akin, who is graduating this upcoming June with a degree in Materials Science and Engineering. Since meeting Akin, I have known her to be an absolute girl boss in the predominantly male world of engineering. Akin serves as the president of the Drexel Society of Women Engineers. Being that myself and Karli come from incredibly different worlds academically, I was intrigued to hear her opinion on the topics of my blog.

Upon interviewing Akin, I asked her what the most valuable lesson was she had learned in college thus far. Akin says, “going out of my comfort zone and taking advantage of as many opportunities as possible.” Karli and I discussed the fact that establishing goals academically and generally contributed to the success she has found over the duration of the past five years.

When I posed her with the question as to whether she learned more inside or outside of the classroom, I was expecting her to say that she has learned more inside of the classroom, being that her major involves scientific-based thinking. However Akin says, “in terms of skills that are valuable both to my career interests and for my life in general, I would definitely say I’ve learned more outside of the classroom throughout college.” Akin also says, “Outside of the classroom I was able to learn about managing my time, collaborating with other people, and how to support myself living alone.” She brings insightful thoughts to the table and makes us realize just how much the college experience truly entails.  

Throughout the interview Akin and I also discussed the grit that Drexel has ingrained in its students. Akin feels that, “most people who come to Drexel already have the strength and motivation in themselves, knowing this school is very intense, but yet they still come here and are determined to succeed.” Akin continues to highlight how much strength and grit we are able to obtain as the years progress. She says, “by the end of our time here, I think we all leave not only with a lot more confidence, but also a great outlook on our future because we know we are well-prepared for any challenge that comes our way.” Akin surely has a bright future ahead of her with any job she chooses to pursue.