Audrey Arroyave (pronouns)
Junior, Class of 2026
Cypress, TX
1. Which area are you more focused on--civil or environmental engineering?
I'm focused on civil engineering! I'm specifically interested in hydrology/water resources, and I would like to work on developing nature-based solutions for more resilient communities after graduation. 2. Are you studying anything else at Rice? I'm also getting a minor in Environmental Studies. I think that learning about the social impacts of environmental and severe-weather-related issues is really important to be able to address them effectively, and I've gained different perspectives in the classes I've taken for this minor.
3. Did you want to do civil and environmental engineering in high school/early years at Rice?
I started at Rice thinking that I would major in Biosciences or Environmental Science, but I was still pretty indecisive about exactly what career path I wanted to take. During freshman spring, I applied to SURF (a research program through OURI) and was matched with Dr. Stadler because of my interest in biology and public health. Over the summer after freshman year, as I learned more about wastewater systems, infrastructure, and CEVE, I realized that path made more sense for me, and I changed my major.
4. What has helped you figure out what to study?
Participating in the Gulf Scholars Program has been really impactful for me. I had the chance to combine engineering knowledge with community engagement, working directly with Houston residents to learn about climate related challenges. I also learned about the many difficulties of implementing long-term solutions, which helped me understand the importance of equitable, public infrastructure. Working at the SSPEED Center also gave me in-depth exposure to the various problems and solutions associated with flooding and severe weather, which really solidified my career path decisions. Although I want to go into water resources engineering, I would also like to work in resiliency planning, with the goal of also advocating for underrepresented communities through engineering. GSP showed me how technical expertise and community-based knowledge can work together to create change.
5. Are you involved in any organizations/clubs/groups?
I really enjoy being a part of sustainability initiatives at Rice!! I'm currently one of the chairs of the Student Association Environmental Commission, and I've also worked with the Office of Sustainability to plan events and raise environmental awareness. In addition to being involved with ASCE and residential college government, I also enjoy DJing for KTRU Rice Radio.
6. Outside of studying and being a student, what is an ideal day for you?
Honestly, my ideal day would just consist of good weather, good food, good music, and good company. 7. What advice or insights do you have for anyone wondering if civil and environmental engineering is a good choice for them? As someone who wondered this before changing my major to CEVE, just explore your options and talk to as many people as possible!! It's a really broad field that can really take you in whatever route you choose, and the CEVE culture at Rice is great.
8. Rice engineering students often shoulder busy schedules--what or who helps keep you motivated during difficult days? Do you have any practical advice for incoming students on striking a school-life balance?
Try and find an extracurricular that is relaxing, and maybe not even related to CEVE at all. For me, KTRU is a place where I can go and discover new music while still engaging with an on-campus org. Also, remember that it's okay to need breaks and take them. I wish I had that thought process earlier in college- I would have probably been a lot less stressed!
9. Ideally, what is your life like after graduation?
After graduation, I want to be somewhere coastal, and have the opportunity to work on projects that help communities become more resilient and ecologically beneficial. I could also see myself getting a Master's degree, either in a sustainable planning or landscape architecture related field. Thank you for allowing us to learn more about you, Audrey! We’re so glad you are a part of the civil and environmental engineering community.
Thank you for allowing us to learn more about you, Liana! We’re so glad you are a part of the civil and environmental engineering community.
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