November 14, 2024

Mizzou Engineering student organizations traveled across the country to attend national conferences and receive awards this fall. Learn more about some of the groups that took advantage of these professional development opportunities.

At Mizzou, we believe in the power of hands-on learning and the benefits of real-world experiences. That’s why engineering student organizations are an integral part of the student experience.

Mizzou Engineering has nearly 50 student organizations with varying goals. From competition teams to honor societies, there is a niche for everyone.

This fall, some of the Mizzou student chapters of national organizations traveled across the country for conferences and to receive awards.

“Student organizations allow students to explore engineering in ways they’re passionate about outside of the classroom,” Anh Nguyen, career services coordinator, said. “They prepare students for their careers by engaging in projects where they can practice engineering skills and by introducing students to networking by bringing in industry speakers.”

Scroll to learn about some of the organizations that attended these professional development opportunities and hear what students took away from the experience.

Mizzou Engineering Student Council (MESC)

MESC serves as a voice for students within the College of Engineering by studying and making recommendations on college affairs. MESC advises the dean, faculty and staff on matters relevant to students, promotes student participation in broader university initiatives, and dedicates time and resources toward community service in Columbia.

At the 2024 East Regional Conference of the National Association of Engineering Student Councils (NAESC), MESC was awarded Best Overall Council.

“Attending the NAESC East Regional Conference was a fantastic opportunity to connect with other Engineering Student Councils and exchange ideas to help each other grow and better serve our respective universities,” Jordyn Lodes, MESC president, said.

Mizzou Student Chapter of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)

Mizzou AIChE’s goal is to educate members about the future and provide insights into different industries and job roles. The chapter aims to bring members and other chemical engineering students together by organizing networking events, mentorship programs and industry visits. It also provides access to resources, workshops and skill-building opportunities, empowering students to excel in their careers.

The group attended the AIChE Annual Student Conference in San Diego, bringing eight students and multiple faculty members.

Mizzou Student Chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE)

The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) is a student-led organization, with a mission to increase the number of culturally responsible Black Engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community.

Each fall, the group gathers for the Region V Fall Regional Conference (FRC), attending workshops, career fairs and networking events with peers and professionals. For the second year in a row, Mizzou NSBE received the Most Outstanding Missouri Zone Chapter Award.

“As a chapter, we’ve seen how these events ignite a deeper passion in our members, making them more engaged with NSBE and engineering,” Mariam Morafa, Mizzou NSBE president, said. “The family-like environment encourages us to step up, seek mentors and give back to the community just as others have for us. For me, conferences like the FRC push me beyond my comfort zone and open doors I might have missed. Two out of the three internships I’ve secured were through NSBE conferences and the network I built there. As President, I’m excited for our future and encourage all students to get involved with their organizations and attend conferences.”

Mizzou Student Chapter of the Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE)

Mizzou SASE aims to prepare Asian heritage scientists and engineers for success in the global business world, celebrate diversity and provide opportunities for community contribution.

This year marked the first time that members of Mizzou’s SASE chapter attended the SASE National Conference in Boston. The event is the largest conference and career fair for Asian Americans in the United States.

“Attending the conference was an invaluable experience,” said a member of the Mizzou SASE chapter. “We engaged in professional development workshops, networked with industry leaders and connected with peers from universities nationwide. Now many chapters across the country know about Mizzou’s SASE, and we’ve started collaboration events with universities like the University of Cincinnati and the University of Southern California. The insights and connections we gained will greatly benefit our chapter and help us foster a more inclusive engineering community at Mizzou.”

Mizzou Student Chapter of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE)

Mizzou SHPE’s mission is to change lives by empowering the Hispanic community to realize its fullest potential and to impact the world through STEM awareness, access, support and development.

Alondra Conchas-Sanchez, public relations chair, says that being a leader in the organization is incredibly rewarding, and that attending the 50^th annual SHPE National Convention was a great way for students to find new opportunities.

“Through various challenges, events, and presentations, Hispanic engineering students and professionals can connect, share insights, and build meaningful networks that open doors to new possibilities,” she said. “These gatherings also offer a unique chance for reconnection, allowing us to reunite with people we’ve worked with or known before. Overall, it’s a truly encompassing experience. We thank the parties who continue to help us achieve this goal every year.”

Mizzou Student Chapter of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE)

Mizzou SWE is dedicated to growing women in engineering and technology fields. SWE works to expand the image of the engineering profession and members strive to foster an inclusive environment and provide members with professional development, mentoring and mutual support.

The theme of SWE’s 2024 conference, WE24, was “Together We Rise,” and speakers highlighted the crucial role of women engineers in shaping the future. Ellise Wright, Mizzou SWE president, says she returned to campus feeling empowered and motivated.

“The conference offered invaluable insights into the engineering field, from pioneering work in construction to biomedical innovations’ impact on patient lives,” she said. “I met SWE members from Florida, Mississippi, and even our neighbors at Missouri S&T. Through these conversations, I learned about the impact they are making on the world and how they are leading the way for future generations. The ten of us left WE24 as a closer-knit team, returning with new friendships, connections and several new insights to share with our chapter.”

Engineer a well-rounded college experience by participating in student organizations. Choose Mizzou Engineering!