This is an interview with Mattice Ureel, a second-semester freshman in Chemical Engineering, recorded and edited by Sophie Gettelman.
Describe yourself!
Hey, I’m Mattice, an international student from Belgium. I love writing, running, and cooking but most importantly knowing how the world works.
What is your definition of what a chemical engineer is?
I would generally define a chemical engineer as a person who tries to make products through chemical processes and systems. But on a more understandable level I see it as an opportunity to truly dive deep into my interests and try to understand how we go from raw materials such as crude oil into refined usable products like containers and chairs. Essentially developing a perspective on how our modern world works.
What led you to choose chemical engineering at USC?
What ultimately attracted me to Chem E at USC can’t simply boil down to one thing. There are many places that can just teach the basic sciences behind Chem E but to me USC felt like a community, where I would not just be another student among the thousands but a valued member to the department family. But also the research done within USC is on the cutting edge of innovation which is simultaneously enthralling yet somehow also daunting. Knowing each one of our professors does such amazing work sometimes makes them feel distant but combined with the small class sizes this aforementioned daunting image quickly falters and they become true caring mentors I value.
How was the first semester? Was anything surprising or different from what you expected?
My first semester was definitely surprising but in a good way. In our Introduction to Chemical Engineering class, Professor Graham quickly got us started on mass balances and a variety of systems. In all honesty, I expected us to start slower but he got us up to pace as soon as we could [and] delving into these processes, I quickly knew this was my calling. Just trying to figure out what a system was producing felt like a puzzle and with each operation and lesson we were slotting pieces together. I loved it.
Having completed a semester as a chemical engineer, has your description of what a chemical engineer is changed?
I think my definition of chemical engineering changed dramatically. Where in the past I may have thought of it as only a difficult science degree, I now see a certain amount of profound yet cliche beauty in what this degree is preparing me for. Most importantly I feel a level of understanding in what it means to be an engineer and harnessing the engineering mindset.
Other than class, what do you like to do at USC?
Other than class I love being involved in a variety of clubs. I truly am able to explore all my passions and interests. I eventually want to pursue patent law so I quickly jumped at any law and innovation themed club. I wrote my own legal paper on gubernatorial overview in parole decisions, educated and discussed AI ethics in ShiftSC and did remote research on the effect of group environments on political bias. This among many hundreds other opportunities on campus is making my time here at USC not only informative but explorative too.
Any advice for prospective chemical engineers?
My only advice left for incoming chemical engineers is to come to school with an open mind. There are so many beautiful paths chemical engineering can take you down. From my own experience this ranges from working in multiple billion dollar pharmaceutical labs to working in the district attorney’s office, a solid foundation in scientific reasoning and complex reasons truly helps you no matter what you choose to do. Show up, learn and take opportunities as they come to you. There are so many more opportunities I wish I had the time to pursue so just choose what interests you and dive head first into it.