In the heart of North Carolina, amid the lush green campus of North Carolina State University, there’s a young and ambitious undergraduate junior named Grace Kiel who is setting a shining example for students across the nation. Grace is not your average student. She’s majoring in Materials Science and Engineering (MSE), and her journey is nothing short of inspirational.
Born with an insatiable curiosity and a love for science, Grace’s journey began long before she set foot on the NC State campus. Growing up in Wisconsin, she was always the one asking the questions that others didn’t think of. It was in her sophomore year of high school when she took AP Chemistry under the guidance of her inspiring teacher, Erica Cook, that she knew she wanted to pursue a career in science.
During her high school years, Grace was a force to be reckoned with. She was an active member of the cheerleading squad, shining as a competitive varsity freshman and sophomore. Her dedication extended beyond the cheer mat, as she joined the French Honor Society, and the National Honor Society, and held the positions of Vice President in her class and Vice President of UNICEF. Even with her busy schedule, she managed to maintain a part-time job at a local carpet company, honing her business acumen.
When Grace entered NC State, her initial major was Chemical Engineering. However, a twist of fate, or perhaps destiny, led her down a different path. A fellow sorority sister and MSE alumna, Leah Bellcase, persuaded her to consider Materials Science and Engineering. Grace decided to leap, and it turned out to be a life-changing decision.
Now, as a junior at NC State, Grace is making waves in the world of engineering. She is not just a student; she’s a student ambassador in the Department of MSE, showcasing her dedication to her chosen field. Grace’s commitment to her studies led her to become a 2023 inductee of the National Academy of Engineering (NAE) Grand Challenges for Engineering program. This program is not for the faint-hearted; it’s for students who aspire to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges through engineering.
Grace’s specific challenge within the grand scheme of the program is nothing short of awe-inspiring. She’s dedicated herself to “engineering the tools of scientific discovery,” with the overarching theme being the “joy of living.” It’s a concept that embodies the essence of discovery rather than simply fixing problems. Her passion for astronomy played a pivotal role in shaping this vision, as she realized the perpetual need to improve scientific communication.
But Grace’s journey doesn’t stop at academics and research. She’s a well-rounded individual who knows how to balance her passions. Grace is an active member of the Kappa Delta sorority, where she has found a community that empowers her to be both a scientist and a woman who enjoys expressing her girly side. Her sorority involvement has taught her valuable life lessons about leadership, friendship, and community engagement.
Grace’s thirst for knowledge knows no boundaries. In early 2023, from January to May, she embarked on a life-changing study abroad program in Ireland. This experience was not only an academic adventure but also an opportunity to satisfy the multicultural diversity core competencies of the Grand Challenges for Engineering program. Grace fully immersed herself in Irish culture, sharing her journey with an Irish roommate and taking three unique courses.
One of these courses, Irish Archaeology, took her on field trips to castles and historic gravesites, deepening her understanding of history and culture. In Science Ethics, she explored the ethical dimensions of decision-making in the corporate world. Lastly, Quantum Mechanics challenged her to grasp the mind-bending concepts of the quantum realm.
Grace’s dedication to academia and her unwavering enthusiasm for science have undoubtedly set her on a path to greatness. Her willingness to step outside her comfort zone, whether it’s switching her major or studying abroad, demonstrates her resilience and commitment to personal growth.
As she looks ahead, Grace has set her sights on applying to the accelerated master’s program in MSE, further cementing her position as a future leader in the field of materials science and engineering. She dreams of a career that spans beyond the borders of North Carolina, where she can continue to engineer the tools of scientific discovery and inspire others to find joy in living through exploration and innovation.
Grace Kiel is more than just an undergraduate junior at NC State. She’s a shining star, a trailblazer, and an inspiration to anyone who dares to dream big and reach for the stars. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of knowledge, reminding us all that the sky is not the limit; it’s just the beginning for those with the courage to explore the unknown.
If you would like to connect with Grace, you can find her on LinkedIn.