Ariadni (Ari) Potamianos is a second year Chemical Engineering student in Viterbi, planning to emphasize in biochemical engineering. When interviewing her, she said she chose USC over other school options because of the research immersed learning environment. Viterbi offers numerous paths to be involved in research from the CURVE program to student led projects. Ari said that the focus on undergraduates being involved in research set USC apart from other schools she was considering. Additionally, the USC network allows her the opportunity to meet with industry professionals – increasing connections and job opportunities for her future.
Ari chose chemical engineering because it is the perfect mix of her favorite things – chemistry and design. As a creative person, Ari wanted to be able to use her degree in a way that allowed her to have a hand on impact. In combining this with her love of chemistry, she landed on chemical engineering. She hopes to take these passions to work in the medical field as a doctor or in pharmaceuticals.
Ari also emphasizes that chemical engineers do not have to only go into petroleum engineering. While she sees how petroleum can be a good field for many people, that wasn’t her. She advocates for people considering engineering to see how many options there are for someone with a chemical engineering degree. As a prospective student, you don’t need to know exactly what you want to do with a chemical engineering degree since there is so much room to explore during school.
Acknowledging that the variety of paths can be overwhelming, at a school like USC, Ari found it easier to help her narrow her focus by talking with her peers and getting involved in on-campus organizations. Ari is a member of AIChe, the Society of Chemical Engineers) and works in Wade Zeno’s lab researching drug delivery methods. Outside of Viterbi, she works dor RedEd as an RA, is a Troy Camp counselor, a part of Snow Club staff, and was social chair for Climbing Club.
I hope Ari’s story can inspire you to pursue a future in Chemical Engineering and explore all USC has to offer.
