Sophie Plante is set to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in computer engineering and minors in biological sciences and mathematics next December.
Plante, of Attleboro, Massachusetts, always loved learning and exploring new ideas. As a New England native, transferring to the University of Rhode Island from a small, city university was a natural and welcoming switch. Drawn to the student life and closeness to home, she originally started her URI journey studying biological sciences. However, once she discovered engineering, she found a field that matched her natural curiosity and combined her love for problem solving and desire to help people in meaningful ways.
“URI challenged me, supported me, and helped me discover what I am capable of.”Sophie Plante, ’26
“While I loved studying biology and chemistry, I realized I was craving something more hands-on and problem-solving oriented, so I switched majors at the start of my sophomore year,” said Plante. “College is full of twists, turns, and unexpected opportunities, and URI gave me the space and support to explore them.”
She states that URI’s College of Engineering played a defining role in her success. Her senior capstone project was spent developing a wildlife tracking system that supports rehabilitation and conservation efforts, which was especially meaningful given her background in biology. This summer, she is applying what she learned with a software engineering internship with General Dynamics Mission Systems, an opportunity made possible through the skills, mentorship, and hands-on experiences she gained in the College of Engineering.
“URI challenged me, supported me, and helped me discover what I am capable of,” said Plante. “The faculty, community, and opportunities here have shaped not only my career path, but also my confidence in who I am as an engineer. I am truly grateful for the impact URI Engineering has had on my journey.”
Outside of academics, she enjoys spending time with friends whether out together or relaxing in, and has always valued connection, community, and a good sense of humor. “URI has been a place where I have grown both personally and academically, and I am grateful for the experiences and relationships that have shaped my path,” said Plante.
Plante is also especially proud of her involvement with Greek life on campus. She served as Vice President of Academic Affairs for her sorority, supporting more than fifty members across a wide range of majors. In this role, she helped members feel confident in their academics while connecting them with resources to support their success.
She also played a key role in organizing a major fundraising week with her chapter and two fraternities, which required months of planning and coordination. Together in the Greek community, they raised $173,000 for the Ronald McDonald House Charities, the Michael J. Fox Foundation, and The Outreach Program, which was an incredible accomplishment that reflects the strength and commitment of the community.
This past fall, she also served as a recruitment counselor, temporarily disaffiliating from her chapter to support incoming students as they navigated the recruitment process and found their place within the Panhellenic community. “Watching these new members grow in confidence and truly find where they belong was both refreshing and deeply rewarding,” said Plante.
“Transferring into engineering was one of the most impactful decisions I have made. The support, challenges, and opportunities I’ve experienced here have shaped both my confidence and my career path.”Sophie Plante, ’26
“My time in Greek Life has shaped me as a leader and strengthened my sense of empathy, communication, and community,” said Plante. “It remains one of the most meaningful and impactful parts of my experience at URI.”
After completing her degree in December, she hopes to begin a career as a software engineer, taking on new challenges, growing as a developer, and making an impact through innovative, mission‑driven projects. Her advice for incoming students? “Do not be afraid to follow your curiosity, try something new, or change direction. Sometimes that is exactly how you find where you are meant to be.”