Juby Agwu
Juby Agwu

As an engineering major, the Oval on Centennial campus is where the majority of my classes have been, and though assignments and exams can be stressful, the Oval is a nice and relaxing place to take a walk and enjoy the scenery. Dr. Howard in the MAE department had been an impactful faculty member for me. Previously, my instructor for Engineering Statics, and now the professor I have been a TA for the past 4 semesters, she has given me a perspective on education in engineering that has helped me in learning other concepts. When I first got to NC State after transferring from Wake Tech Community College, I had the pleasure of joining many student organizations such as NSBE, ASME, and BCM InterVarsity. This greatly helped my transition to a new college and has been the catalyst for making a lot of the friends that I have now. NC State gives a lot of students opportunities for research, whether it be a paid experience or for course credit. It is amazing to me when students are able to get extensive experience with practical applications of what we learn in our courses. I would love for the COE to receive more support for students to have access to even more opportunities.

Juby Agwu
Juby Agwu

As an engineering major, the Oval on Centennial campus is where the majority of my classes have been, and though assignments and exams can be stressful, the Oval is a nice and relaxing place to take a walk and enjoy the scenery. Dr. Howard in the MAE department had been an impactful faculty member for me. Previously, my instructor for Engineering Statics, and now the professor I have been a TA for the past 4 semesters, she has given me a perspective on education in engineering that has helped me in learning other concepts. When I first got to NC State after transferring from Wake Tech Community College, I had the pleasure of joining many student organizations such as NSBE, ASME, and BCM InterVarsity. This greatly helped my transition to a new college and has been the catalyst for making a lot of the friends that I have now. NC State gives a lot of students opportunities for research, whether it be a paid experience or for course credit. It is amazing to me when students are able to get extensive experience with practical applications of what we learn in our courses. I would love for the COE to receive more support for students to have access to even more opportunities.

KR
Katherine Ayala-Rodriguez

NC State has supported my passions by not only introducing me to a new hobby through a class, I was also blessed enough to have a teacher who gave me access to materials to better pursue this hobby as part of their class.

KR
Katherine Ayala-Rodriguez

NC State has supported my passions by not only introducing me to a new hobby through a class, I was also blessed enough to have a teacher who gave me access to materials to better pursue this hobby as part of their class.

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Mahsa nazem
One of the biggest impacts NC State has had on me is through the supportive academic community in the Wilson College of Textiles. Through my Ph.D. journey in Fiber and Polymer Science, I have been able to work on meaningful research related to sustainability and nonwovens, which connects strongly with both my professional background and my future goals.
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Mahsa nazem
One of the biggest impacts NC State has had on me is through the supportive academic community in the Wilson College of Textiles. Through my Ph.D. journey in Fiber and Polymer Science, I have been able to work on meaningful research related to sustainability and nonwovens, which connects strongly with both my professional background and my future goals.
Ramanpreet Kaur
Ramanpreet Kaur
NC State has been a defining chapter in my journey, shaping not just my career path but also my confidence in pursuing it. As an MBA student, I found clarity in my interest in strategy and consulting through rigorous coursework, meaningful conversations, and exposure to real world opportunities. Hunt Library stands out as a space that symbolizes this transformation, where long hours turned into breakthrough ideas and personal growth. What truly sets NC State apart, though, is its people. Faculty and peers consistently challenged me to think bigger, push further, and believe in my potential. Through these experiences, I didn’t just gain skills, I gained direction. Not to forget the Free Moms initiative, which feels like a home away from home. I always look forward to the warmth and positive energy it brings each week. NC State didn’t just prepare me for what’s next, it helped me discover what I’m capable of.
Ramanpreet Kaur
Ramanpreet Kaur
NC State has been a defining chapter in my journey, shaping not just my career path but also my confidence in pursuing it. As an MBA student, I found clarity in my interest in strategy and consulting through rigorous coursework, meaningful conversations, and exposure to real world opportunities. Hunt Library stands out as a space that symbolizes this transformation, where long hours turned into breakthrough ideas and personal growth. What truly sets NC State apart, though, is its people. Faculty and peers consistently challenged me to think bigger, push further, and believe in my potential. Through these experiences, I didn’t just gain skills, I gained direction. Not to forget the Free Moms initiative, which feels like a home away from home. I always look forward to the warmth and positive energy it brings each week. NC State didn’t just prepare me for what’s next, it helped me discover what I’m capable of.
JS
Jessie Blekfeld-Sztraky
NC State made its mark on me in ways that don't fit the traditional mold, and I can't imagine it any other way. I'm not an alum, but my connection to the Wolfpack runs deep. I'm married to an alum, surrounded by friends and family who work, study, and bleed red, and lucky enough to live just minutes from campus. For nearly six years, I had the privilege of being part of this community as a staff member, and that time shaped me professionally in countless ways. It was my colleagues and mentors, generous, driven, and genuinely invested in each other's growth, who helped me put my best foot forward every single day. But NC State's mark goes beyond the professional. Some of my favorite memories are wrapped in Wolfpack spirit, from racing to the Belltower to join the celebrations during that unforgettable 2024 run, to giving that approving nod to a stranger in a far-off airport wearing NC State gear and feeling that instant, unspoken connection. That's the thing about this place: it has a way of making you feel like you belong, even when you came in through a side door. I am so unbelievably grateful for the Wolfpack and proud to call this community my own.
JS
Jessie Blekfeld-Sztraky
NC State made its mark on me in ways that don't fit the traditional mold, and I can't imagine it any other way. I'm not an alum, but my connection to the Wolfpack runs deep. I'm married to an alum, surrounded by friends and family who work, study, and bleed red, and lucky enough to live just minutes from campus. For nearly six years, I had the privilege of being part of this community as a staff member, and that time shaped me professionally in countless ways. It was my colleagues and mentors, generous, driven, and genuinely invested in each other's growth, who helped me put my best foot forward every single day. But NC State's mark goes beyond the professional. Some of my favorite memories are wrapped in Wolfpack spirit, from racing to the Belltower to join the celebrations during that unforgettable 2024 run, to giving that approving nod to a stranger in a far-off airport wearing NC State gear and feeling that instant, unspoken connection. That's the thing about this place: it has a way of making you feel like you belong, even when you came in through a side door. I am so unbelievably grateful for the Wolfpack and proud to call this community my own.
Michelle Schroeder-Moreno
Michelle Schroeder-Moreno

It's hard for me to put in words how much the Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) and NC State have greatly impacted my life, my family (my husband works for NC State and CEFS too) and my ability to make positive changes in our agriculture community and food system. In teaching (and starting the program) for agroecology I am continually impressed by the innovation and grit of our students (and now alumni) to also carry the 'think do' mentality forward. I have never been in a place and worked with faculty, staff and students that are so collaborative, humble and focused on creating sustainable and innovative solutions for our biggest challenges. It’s a privilege to work for NC State!

Michelle Schroeder-Moreno
Michelle Schroeder-Moreno

It's hard for me to put in words how much the Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) and NC State have greatly impacted my life, my family (my husband works for NC State and CEFS too) and my ability to make positive changes in our agriculture community and food system. In teaching (and starting the program) for agroecology I am continually impressed by the innovation and grit of our students (and now alumni) to also carry the 'think do' mentality forward. I have never been in a place and worked with faculty, staff and students that are so collaborative, humble and focused on creating sustainable and innovative solutions for our biggest challenges. It’s a privilege to work for NC State!

AV
Austin Varghese

NC State allowed me to essentially be more me. When I first started college in UNCC, I didn’t have the right community to help me be adventurous and to take risks. When I transferred to NC State, from the get go I was greeted and treated as a member of the Pack. From the transfer classes and mentorships to the fun transfer village excursions to an escape room or a baseball game. My favorite place on campus is the entrepreneurship garage, as it’s very cozy and great for late night talks or studying. Talking with my classmates made me understand what I want to do with my degree and helped me move out to who I want to be.

AV
Austin Varghese

NC State allowed me to essentially be more me. When I first started college in UNCC, I didn’t have the right community to help me be adventurous and to take risks. When I transferred to NC State, from the get go I was greeted and treated as a member of the Pack. From the transfer classes and mentorships to the fun transfer village excursions to an escape room or a baseball game. My favorite place on campus is the entrepreneurship garage, as it’s very cozy and great for late night talks or studying. Talking with my classmates made me understand what I want to do with my degree and helped me move out to who I want to be.

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Caiden Smallwood
My favorite place on campus is the African American Cultural Center. As an AYA Ambassador there this year, the space has served as a hub for creativity, community, and cultural engagement that I could't imagine NC State functioning without.
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Caiden Smallwood
My favorite place on campus is the African American Cultural Center. As an AYA Ambassador there this year, the space has served as a hub for creativity, community, and cultural engagement that I could't imagine NC State functioning without.
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Mariam Ismail
NC State has pushed me to grow both academically and personally. One place that stands out to me is Hill Library—it became my go-to spot for studying and staying focused, and it represents my growth and discipline. A professor I had really shaped my mindset by encouraging me to think critically and believe in my abilities. Their support helped me feel more confident about my future. One key moment for me was working on a group project where I had to step up and present. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow. Overall, NC State has supported my goals by surrounding me with opportunities and motivated people, helping me become more confident and driven.
MI
Mariam Ismail
NC State has pushed me to grow both academically and personally. One place that stands out to me is Hill Library—it became my go-to spot for studying and staying focused, and it represents my growth and discipline. A professor I had really shaped my mindset by encouraging me to think critically and believe in my abilities. Their support helped me feel more confident about my future. One key moment for me was working on a group project where I had to step up and present. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow. Overall, NC State has supported my goals by surrounding me with opportunities and motivated people, helping me become more confident and driven.
Sawyer Grimes
Sawyer Grimes

My favorite place on campus is the Free Expression Tunnel. I enjoy the freedom it gives students and as a student interested in art it feels the most like home to me. Faculty members have helped shape my career by giving me time after my hospital admittance. A moment at NC State that helped me grow is learning I don’t like my current degree and deciding to change. NC States supports my community and passions by giving me a place to find my people and connect with them.

Sawyer Grimes
Sawyer Grimes

My favorite place on campus is the Free Expression Tunnel. I enjoy the freedom it gives students and as a student interested in art it feels the most like home to me. Faculty members have helped shape my career by giving me time after my hospital admittance. A moment at NC State that helped me grow is learning I don’t like my current degree and deciding to change. NC States supports my community and passions by giving me a place to find my people and connect with them.

Anne M. Porter
Anne M. Porter

The JC Raulston Arboretum holds a very special place in my heart. I had the privilege of working for CALS Advancement, where I enjoyed fundraising for the arboretum until my retirement in 2015. It’s exhilarating to see the arboretum celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year. I fondly remember celebrating its 25th and reflecting on how proud the late J.C. Raulston would have been. Since my retirement, I have witnessed the incredible development and transformation of the programs and gardens. In a whimsical moment, and perhaps in anticipation of the Day of Giving, I even dreamed last night that the JCRA had expanded to house elephants! (Though I suppose a collection of elephant ears, Colocasia esculenta, is more likely. LOL) I am immensely proud of the dedication and hard work of the entire staff. The attached photo captures a happy moment with the late Bobby G. Wilder and me at the Bobby G. Wilder Visitor Center. Bobby's generosity was an inspiration to many, especially to me. Our shared love of travel motivated me to create the Anne Marie Porter Travel Fund for the JCRA Staff, which I support through annual gifts, a Charitable Annuity, and other estate gifts. Congratulations on 50 years of remarkable achievement! Here’s to the next 50!

Anne M. Porter
Anne M. Porter

The JC Raulston Arboretum holds a very special place in my heart. I had the privilege of working for CALS Advancement, where I enjoyed fundraising for the arboretum until my retirement in 2015. It’s exhilarating to see the arboretum celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year. I fondly remember celebrating its 25th and reflecting on how proud the late J.C. Raulston would have been. Since my retirement, I have witnessed the incredible development and transformation of the programs and gardens. In a whimsical moment, and perhaps in anticipation of the Day of Giving, I even dreamed last night that the JCRA had expanded to house elephants! (Though I suppose a collection of elephant ears, Colocasia esculenta, is more likely. LOL) I am immensely proud of the dedication and hard work of the entire staff. The attached photo captures a happy moment with the late Bobby G. Wilder and me at the Bobby G. Wilder Visitor Center. Bobby's generosity was an inspiration to many, especially to me. Our shared love of travel motivated me to create the Anne Marie Porter Travel Fund for the JCRA Staff, which I support through annual gifts, a Charitable Annuity, and other estate gifts. Congratulations on 50 years of remarkable achievement! Here’s to the next 50!

ZA
Zoe altamirano
It has made me a better person! It makes me better at time management, speaking to people and just over all grow as a person.
ZA
Zoe altamirano
It has made me a better person! It makes me better at time management, speaking to people and just over all grow as a person.
Alex Keen
Alex Keen
NC State has made a big mark on me in just my first year here. I have been able to connect with and make a lot of friends quickly, which has helped me have a lot of fun! I have also tried many new things, like pickleball. I have grown to love the sport and can’t wait to keep getting better at it! Additionally, I have had a lot of experience with new connections and resources from the Poole College of Management. This has allowed me to gain valuable insight into my future business career and ways I can improve my chances of a better job. My favorite place on campus is probably Lake Raleigh. It is so peaceful there and a nice break from all the hustle and bustle of classes. The trail is great and I love the walk to it from my dorm on central campus. NC State supports my passions by all the resources it has to offer. There is a huge gym for my weightlifting passion, courts for pickleball, and walking trails everywhere for nice long walks. NC State has so much it is almost overwhelming (which is good)!
Alex Keen
Alex Keen
NC State has made a big mark on me in just my first year here. I have been able to connect with and make a lot of friends quickly, which has helped me have a lot of fun! I have also tried many new things, like pickleball. I have grown to love the sport and can’t wait to keep getting better at it! Additionally, I have had a lot of experience with new connections and resources from the Poole College of Management. This has allowed me to gain valuable insight into my future business career and ways I can improve my chances of a better job. My favorite place on campus is probably Lake Raleigh. It is so peaceful there and a nice break from all the hustle and bustle of classes. The trail is great and I love the walk to it from my dorm on central campus. NC State supports my passions by all the resources it has to offer. There is a huge gym for my weightlifting passion, courts for pickleball, and walking trails everywhere for nice long walks. NC State has so much it is almost overwhelming (which is good)!
GK
Grace Krug
Meeting people as an out-of-state student has helped me come out of my shell.
GK
Grace Krug
Meeting people as an out-of-state student has helped me come out of my shell.
Madelyn Houseknecht
Madelyn Houseknecht

The moment that changed my direction was my first day of class at NC State. Transferring from another college that didn’t quite meet my needs and aspirations academically to a new school was nerve-racking. Although that all changed when I began my journey here at NC State on the first day of class. I could see from that moment on that there were a multitude of courses, programs, and opportunities that would allow me to grow. NC State supports my passion by fueling my drive and want to learn through the multitude of courses and opportunities offered across the campuses.

Madelyn Houseknecht
Madelyn Houseknecht

The moment that changed my direction was my first day of class at NC State. Transferring from another college that didn’t quite meet my needs and aspirations academically to a new school was nerve-racking. Although that all changed when I began my journey here at NC State on the first day of class. I could see from that moment on that there were a multitude of courses, programs, and opportunities that would allow me to grow. NC State supports my passion by fueling my drive and want to learn through the multitude of courses and opportunities offered across the campuses.

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Felicity Miller
Being able to be a part of the NC State marching band has given me the motivation to continue to push through some of the hardest parts of college. Music and band is a reminder of the reason why we fight so hard to make this world a better place.
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Felicity Miller
Being able to be a part of the NC State marching band has given me the motivation to continue to push through some of the hardest parts of college. Music and band is a reminder of the reason why we fight so hard to make this world a better place.
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Grace
I love the hearth in Riddick hall. The decor is the perfect blend of art and engineering.
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Grace
I love the hearth in Riddick hall. The decor is the perfect blend of art and engineering.
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Esther Medo

My favorite place is Witherspoon because I feel like I can connect to my people more there.

EM
Esther Medo

My favorite place is Witherspoon because I feel like I can connect to my people more there.

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Sabine Spaulding

I love going to the gym on campus. I never went to one before but everyone is nice and helped me so much.

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Sabine Spaulding

I love going to the gym on campus. I never went to one before but everyone is nice and helped me so much.

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Neha Pothireddy
My favorite spot on campus is the garden between Owen and Turlington. It is so peaceful and removed from the chaos on campus. The trees are beautiful, and it's a great place to have some alone time.
NP
Neha Pothireddy
My favorite spot on campus is the garden between Owen and Turlington. It is so peaceful and removed from the chaos on campus. The trees are beautiful, and it's a great place to have some alone time.