Justyn Welsh ’21, School of Engineering

Justyn Welsh talks about his time at UConn

Head shot of Justyn Welsh

Justyn Welsh (Contributed photo)

What’s your major and why did you choose it?
My major is Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering. Fun fact: actually, I started off a Biomedical Engineering major, and I still have a love and interest for that topic, but I grew way more interested in CBE as I got deeper into chemistry. Once I got to Thermodynamics I was hooked on the topic way more than any course I had taken before and I knew it was a fit. Finally, all the friends I’ve made in my major make it a joy to be a part of.

What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to start working in industry and hopefully go back for my Master’s degree while I work. Right now, I’m looking at a dual MBA/MEng Master’s program at UConn. I would love to continue moving forward in engineering, but I’ve always seen myself getting an MBA as well. Getting to combine them would be an awesome opportunity for me.

What’s something you learned in a class that you’ll always remember?
I took a course titled “The Science of Well-being,” and the course was about rewiring ourselves to be happier and learning what barriers are put into place to keep us from being happy. Throughout the course, it was taught that even just by saying what we are happy for helps us be happier. I learned not to dwell on the negative but always focus on the positive.

Any advice for incoming first-year students?
My biggest advice for first-year students is do not be afraid. It can be overwhelming, but the best way to handle it is to go out, do new things, and meet new people. I wish I got involved more in my freshmen and sophomore years. There’s only four years, so you need to make the most of it while you can.

Who was your favorite professor and why?
My favorite professor is Dr. Jennifer Pascal from the CBE Department. First off, her Fluid Mechanics class was awesome and super interesting. I also had her for Senior Lab, which again was awesome. What really makes her great is how much she cares about the students. Whether you need an extension, or need to ask a question, she was always there to help. She had sat in on the “Science of Well-being” course as she also wanted to learn about how to be happy as a student. A professor taking the extra mile is something I will always remember and appreciate.