Every month the VanCougar interviews a WSU Vancouver senior and asks them about their college experiences. In this installment of the column, we spoke with Kyle Nguyen, a mechanical engineering major.
Q: What is the hardest part about being a senior?
“For me, the hardest part of being a senior is getting through those final classes you need to graduate. The last, final stretch—and capstones needed to get through the final year.”
Q: Is there a person you met or a class you took that changed your life?
“I think the first class I took in freshman year that changed my life is Mech 103. That worked with CAD because it changed my mind about which career path I wanted to go down. It was me juggling between the medical field or engineering. I never took anything like that before and it solidified my decision to become a mechanical engineer.”
Q: Have you enjoyed your time at WSU Vancouver?
“Mostly, yes. I enjoyed most of my time at WSU Vancouver. I’ve met some wonderful people, but there’s been ups and downs—but those moments helped me grow as a person over the years. But going to WSU Vancouver has made me a better person because of them.”
Q: If you could give a piece of advice to current and incoming WSU Vancouver students, what would you tell them?
“Try not to be so harsh on yourself, especially when it comes to grades and doing well in school, and when it comes to getting to the top. If you’re going to school just for the grades, you miss out on the wonderful people that help you grow as a person. Over the past four years, I’ve met a lot of wonderful people that have helped me into the person I am today—and helped me in the future. There are people who are willing to help you out in life. Don’t miss out on them.”
Q: What’s your favorite memory from your time at WSU Vancouver?
“One memory that pops up in my head is the first day of orientation, when everyone got to campus for the first time. After splitting up into our groups, I met a lot of people who were interested in the same things as me and I was able to meet people that I’m still friends with today. Throughout my four years as an engineering major, I still think about that moment that made me into the person I am.”