Owen Jin (he/him)
Junior, Class of 2026
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
1. Which area are you more focused on--civil or environmental engineering?
I’m more focused on civil engineering. At Rice, my focus is in Area III: structural engineering and mechanics. After graduation, I’m excited to explore how we can build structures that enhance our health, safety, and community.
2. Are you studying anything else at Rice?
Yes, I’m also pursuing a Sociology minor and a Civic Leadership Certificate. Sociology interests me because it offers a richer understanding of the social world, including class, race, gender, and how these interconnected factors shape our experiences with our surrounding built environment. Civil engineering projects directly connect to these dynamics, making it crucial for creating inclusive and sustainable structures. The Civic Leadership certificate combines my academic and experiential knowledge, preparing me to lead in diverse community settings and address real-world issues through collaboration. My experience with the Gulf Scholars Program at Rice this past summer inspired me to further explore these areas and their impact on sustainable infrastructure.
3. Did you want to do civil and environmental engineering in high school/early years at Rice?
In high school, I was drawn to buildings and structures, design, and our interactions with them. I considered both civil engineering and architecture, as they both align with these interests. When I started college, I was still figuring out which direction to take in my career, so I chose civil engineering because it offers a broader range of options. The diversity within civil engineering, from structural to environmental and everything in between, allows me to explore various paths before settling on one. Each project and class provides new insights, keeping me engaged and excited about the future.
4. What has helped you figure out what to study?
I don’t have specific experiences that made me realize, “This is what I want to do.” It’s been a gradual process, a combination of coursework, labs, and other interactions that have pointed me in my current direction. Overall, it's an evolving journey, and I’m sure my direction will continue to refine and evolve during the time I have left at Rice. Every class, project, and conversation adds a new layer to my understanding of myself and my interests.
5. Are you involved in any organizations/clubs/groups?
I'm involved in Engineers Without Borders and RAW Photography. I've been a member of EWB since my freshman year, and witnessing the club's growth over the years has been inspiring. What initially drew me to EWB was the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities and apply coursework to tangible projects. Our current project is building a bridge for the residents of Prado, Peru. We're working hard to complete the design, calculations, and fundraising, and we aim to travel in May 2025 to begin construction. The collaborative environment, where we all learn from each other to achieve a common goal, is truly special.
RAW Photography has given me the opportunity to engage with talented photographers on campus. The diversity in the community’s interests is incredible. I love seeing everyone's latest photos and learning from them.
6. Outside of studying and being a student, what is an ideal day for you?
An ideal day for me involves being outdoors and exploring new places, whether it's a bustling city or the tranquility of nature. I love taking photos, capturing the scenery while hiking in Yosemite, or snapping shots of interesting strangers and stunning buildings as I wander the streets of NYC.
Spending time with close friends and family is a must. We'd enjoy food from all over the world, trying different cuisines and savoring the flavors. Whether it's a cozy picnic in a park or a lively meal in a city café, the combination of good company and delicious food makes the day perfect.
7. What advice or insights do you have for anyone wondering if civil and environmental engineering is a good choice for them?
If you're considering civil and environmental engineering, my biggest advice is to dive in and explore everything that CEVE has to offer. Get involved in student organizations, attend ASCE company presentations, and take advantage of the vast opportunities available.
The field offers a chance to make a significant impact, from ranging in scale from building structures to entire city networks. It seems incredibly rewarding to see and engage with the projects you help bring to life.
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?
During tough days, my motivation comes from my parents and grandparents, along with reflecting on how much progress I've made so far. They always remind me of the bigger picture and the goals I’m working toward.
For incoming students, my advice is to focus on long-term goals and break them down into manageable steps, instead of leaving tasks to the last minute—something I also need to remind myself of. Don’t be afraid to take breaks; I find that going for walks helps me reset and come back refreshed. Collaborating with friends can also make studying more enjoyable and productive, providing motivation and support.
9. Ideally, what is your life like after graduation?
In the years after graduation, I'd love to live in a city with developed public transit—I don't like driving. The West Coast is appealing, too, for its great weather and access to nature. Maybe San Francisco. My ideal job is still a bit vague, but I know I want to design cool structures with a good team. I also want to find a good balance that lets me pursue other interests and spend time with friends and family.
Thank you for allowing us to learn more about you, Owen! We’re so glad you are a part of the civil and environmental engineering community.
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