Meet Ryan,
Undergraduate Student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Why structural engineering?
I always knew I wanted to study buildings and design. I started school as an Architecture major but in my second year, I realized that path wasn’t for me. At that point, I switched to engineering. It’s a much better fit for me.
What inspires you?
As an engineer, buildings inspire me. As a child, I visited New York and was fascinated by the city’s skyline and its skyscrapers. I hadn’t seen anything like that before. It made me want to build something that grand. As a person, my Aunt (my Dad’s oldest sister) inspires me. Growing up, my Dad’s family was poor and she was a typical older sister to him. She still lives in the same place and works at the same job in a garment factory in Hong Kong. She is the most unselfish and giving person that I know. Spending time with her has given me perspective on life.
What are you passionate about?
I’m passionate about buildings and design. I always want to look at city skylines, in person and in photography. I also enjoy music, spending time with family and playing soccer.
What have you gained from your internship at PASE?
I’ve gained invaluable skills in both the technical and non-technical aspects of engineering. I’ve gained knowledge of new materials that I wouldn’t have gained from school. I’ve learned how to collaborate and coordinate with others on design projects.
What was the most memorable project you worked on while at PASE?
I was able to work on a battery cabinet calculation package in a data center. It was a good learning experience for me; it gave me the most comprehensive experience in learning how to design.
Outside of engineering, what have you enjoyed the most during your time at PASE?
I’ve enjoyed the atmosphere the most; it’s very family oriented. Employees are invested in other employees. They hang out with each other outside of work and share each other’s journeys. I enjoyed participating in a foosball tournament and played soccer on the company team to compete for the Corporate Cup. My time here was a good experience for me. I formed bonds with people I worked with.
What piece of advice would you offer to fellow students?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. My supervisors at PASE were willing to talk and share their experience with you. There’s a beauty in the struggle; don’t take the easy way out. Keep trying and figure things out.
Here at Peoples Associates Structural Engineers, we put our interns and their talents to work–their skill set and education are not taken lightly. We truly appreciate the opportunity to educate and shape these bright people into becoming talented Structural Engineers, ready to create the next set of structures that shape our cities.
This summer’s interns were a mix of eager Undergraduate and Graduate students. Join us as they share a bit of their story and what they look forward to on their journeys ahead.
All of our interns had a wonderful learning experience at PASE, giving them real-life experience that they’ll take into their blossoming careers. Team PASE took them in with open arms, and absolutely loved to show them what they can look forward to what awaits them after finishing their college careers.