Victoria Axlesson | Chemical and Biochemical Engineering

“The best thing about the chemical and biochemical engineering (CBE) major is its versatility. Chemical engineers have the opportunity to work in a multitude of different industries.” -- Victoria Axelsson

As a transfer student from Atlantic Cape Community College, CBE major Victoria Axelsson chose Rutgers Engineering because of its academic reputation and weight in industry. She has taken advantage of internship and extracurricular opportunities and, as a 4+1 BS/MS program in the CBE department, after graduating in May, she will be returning in the fall to complete her master’s degree.

Why Rutgers?

In addition to choosing Rutgers for its reputation, I had toured it several times, and I just felt at home when walking around campus.

What do you like best about your CBE major?

The best thing about the CBE major is its versatility. Chemical engineers have the opportunity to work in a multitude of different industries, which I found attractive as I was still figuring out what I wanted to do when I transferred to Rutgers. I find it powerful that we learn the universal laws of thermodynamics, transport, phenomena, and more, which can then be applied to either improve existing processes or design new ones.

Have you had any internships?

Last summer, I had the opportunity to work at the battery manufacturing company, HiT Nano Inc. as a research engineer intern. It was an amazing experience. I worked on the thermochemical energy storage team, performing routine lab work and literature review on material synthesis. The work was interesting, and the people were lovely.

What about extracurriculars?

I’m a School of Engineering Ambassador, which has been such a rewarding experience. Dean Aaron Rodriguez magically makes the team feel like family, and working is such a pleasure. I’m also a Red Pine Ambassador and give tours for Douglass Residential College. That team also feels like family.

Additionally, I serve as internal review chair and university senator in the Engineering Governing Council. I’ve worked as a learning assistant and am also a member of the Omega Chi Epsilon and Tau Beta Pi honor societies.

What surprised you the most about Rutgers Engineering?

I’m constantly surprised by the research my peers perform. I’ll hear about the research topics and opportunities in each department, and I feel so inspired to be a Rutgers Engineering student.

What is your favorite SoE memory?

My favorite memories are the late night study sessions with my best friends. We’d book a study room, get the snacks, and crank out a group project or exam prep.

As a 4+1 student, what are your plans after you get your MS?

I aim to work in the energy industry, most likely in renewables.

Do you have any advice for future students?

I wish you all the best for your college experience whether or not you choose Rutgers. I implore you to understand why you what to become an engineer. Your reason for pursuing engineering will help you persevere in the times you might feel unmotivated or overwhelmed.

Overall, college is a time for exploration and growth. Rutgers SoE has been the perfect catalyst for my experience – and I hope it could be the same for you.

What three words best describe your SoE experience?

Absolutely Worth It.