Outstanding Senior Spotlight: Megan Hong

After graduating from the University of California, Davis, as a materials science and engineering major, Megan Hong will pursue her Ph.D. in chemical and biological engineering at Princeton University. She talks about her gratitude for her college experience and all the people who supported her along the way. 

Answers have been edited for clarity and length.

What initially inspired you to pursue engineering, and how has that inspiration evolved throughout your time at UC Davis?  

Coming into college, I didn't know that I wanted to study engineering. I was always confident that STEM was right for me, but when I was applying to schools, I applied to majors ranging from public health to pure math to environmental science.  

I ultimately let my choice of school decide my major. As I've worked through the engineering curriculum, I've come to appreciate the problem-solving nature of engineering. I have been inspired by many engineers whose work has helped shape our society and now am confident that I want to continue pursuing engineering in the future.

Can you share a specific project, research experience or memory that you found particularly rewarding or impactful during your studies?  

During summer 2024, I worked at Fortera, a green cement company, as a product lab intern. Under the guidance of my mentor and manager, Ying Wang, I led an independent research project on the strengthening mechanisms of various admixtures in their green cement, which led to some exciting results.  

This project felt like a culmination of all my previous research and work experience as I completed all aspects of the project from start to finish, including designing the experiments, preparing samples, taking data and interpreting results. I learned so much during this internship and am extremely grateful for the experience.  

On top of the many learning and professional growth opportunities, it was very exciting to work in sustainable engineering, which is something I am passionate about.  

Who is one of your favorite engineering professors and why?

There have been so many who have helped me through my undergraduate career. I have to give a shout-out to my principal investigator, Adam Moulé, professor of chemical engineering. Since I joined his group during my second year, Professor Moulé has been nothing but supportive of me and all of my academic endeavors. I can tell that he cares deeply about my growth as a researcher and that he wants to see me succeed. I would not have reached where I am today without the support of him and all the graduate students in his group.  

What advice would you give to your first-year self or to incoming students about making the most of their time in the College of Engineering?

Don't be scared to nurture your curiosity and to try out something new because it sounds fun and interesting.  

Is there anything else you would like to share?  

There are so many people who have helped and supported me through my undergraduate career, and I am so grateful for their kindness, knowledge and mentorship. My managers, professors, graduate students, coworkers and friends have created a supportive environment that has provided me with the space and support to grow into the best version of myself. Words cannot describe how thankful I am.