Each year the College of Engineering selects a cohort of current undergraduate students to serve as Student Ambassadors. They represent the College of Engineering by sharing their college experiences and “secrets of success” with prospective students and their families at recruitment and college tradition events such as the Engineering Kick-Off, fall Open House events, individualized college tours, and spring Welcome Days.
Meet the Ambassadors
Arshaq Ahmed ’28
Biomedical Engineering
A piece of advice I have is that you shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions or seek help early. Whether it’s office hours with professors, study groups, or the Student Success Center, URI has a lot of options when it comes to getting help with your classes.
Student Involvements:
- URI Club Tennis
- Intramural Volleyball
- Intramural Soccer
Jack Chaneski ‘28
Ocean Engineering and Marine Biology
As a College of Engineering student, I love that there are many opportunities for research and learning outside of the classroom. Plus, I have made many great friends with similar interests, passions, and goals through the COE and the LLC.
Student Involvements:
- Theta Tau
- Engineers for a Sustainable World
- Marine Technology Society
- Marine Science Society
- Scuba Diving Club
Mia Corradino ‘28
Mechanical Engineering and Spanish (IEP)
My favorite experience so far in URI Engineering has been working with other students on fun engineering projects like the cardboard boat! It’s so fun making new friends and working on something we all are passionate about.
Student Involvements:
- Ram Marching Band
- Society of Women Engineers
Andrew Fricano ‘27
Ocean Engineering
One piece of advice: Go to the AEC for tutoring!
Student Involvements:
- Undergrad Research
- Math and Physics tutor
Christiana Gansallo ’27
Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Applied Math
Engineering is not always easy, but I am so grateful I found a community of people here at URI. Being an Engineering Ambassador has given me the wonderful opportunity to be a visible example for students who may not always see themselves represented in engineering. I love showing them they belong here and building community, growing through shared experiences.
Student Involvements:
- National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)
- Black & Brown in Engineering, Science, & Technology (BBWESTS)
- African Student Organization (ASO)
- URI Housing & Residential Life – Resident Assistant (RA)
- RI-INBRE Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship
- Science and Engineering Fellows Program
- Alima International Dance Association
- AEC Math, Physics, & Chemistry Tutor
Mikaylee Lemanski ‘27
Ocean Engineering
What I love most about being in the College of Engineering at URI is the hands on experience. Whether it’s testing designs in the wave tank or working on research, you get to apply what you are learning to real life scenarios.
Student Involvements:
- Vice Chair of the Marine Technology Society
- Vice Regent of Theta Tau
Abigail Lyon ‘29
Biomedical Engineering and Spanish (IEP)
Singing up and going to your first engineering class at URI may seem daunting, but don’t worry because the staff and your fellow students are willing to help you achieve all you can be.
Student Involvements:
- Sailing
- Theta Tau
Charlie Mather ‘29
Mechanical Engineering and French
My favorite experience so far in URI Engineering has to be the cardboard boat race that we did at the start of Freshman year. It was a great opportunity to work as a team, meet new people, and showcase our creativity.
Student Involvements:
- International Engineering Program
- Sigma Alpha Mu Fraternity
- American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
Kitara Pottebaum‘27
Ocean Engineering
My biggest advice is to get involved. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and meet new people. Attending office hours or joining a club can be incredibly beneficial. Most importantly, make time for yourself and what you enjoy!
Student Involvements:
- Marine Technology Society
- Engineers Without Borders
- COE Connect Mentor
- Research Student in Dr. Chang’s Lab
Nora O’Connor ‘28
Civil Engineering and Political Science
Trust the process and know that you belong in the engineering program. Engineering is a hard major but along the way you find the things that make it all worth it.
Student Involvements:
- Theta Tau
- Engineering Fraternity
- URI College Democrats
Jacob Spence ‘28
Mechanical Engineering
I love the community inside the college of engineering. All of the people I have had the privilege of meeting are helpful and wonderful. Also free printing.
Student Involvements:
- Theta Tau
- Lego Club
- ASME