Mattie Brennan
When I chose to pursue a degree in Biosystems Engineering, I was unsure of the future. It’s a major that can be challenging to explain; however, I would describe it as diverse. The classes and hands-on experiences are all unique, offering a wide range of opportunities to each student. From the beginning, I felt the freedom to explore different career opportunities that aligned with my beliefs in sustainability. Biosystems set me ahead because the department focuses on hands-on experiences in addition to regular lecture time. I have been knee-deep in creeks sorting bugs to determine important characteristics about a body of water. In every class, I expanded my understanding of the environment and my role as an engineer. The best part of being a Biosystems student is building relationships with the faculty, staff, and other students. The close-knit community of this department has felt like my home away from home.
Alli Broom
Biosystems Engineering has felt like where I belonged since day one. It has constantly encouraged me and taught me that no problem in life is unsolvable if you simply put your mind to it and ensure that you are attempting to solve this problem, not just for yourself, but for the betterment of the world. My BSEN experience has allowed me to grow not only academically and professionally, but personally as well. I feel that the department has a passionate faculty, rigorous coursework, and engaging, hands-on projects that have been both challenging, and fun. There is not a more enjoyable group of people than my fellow students. I am very appreciative for all the knowledge, opportunities, and friendships that the department has provided me, and I know that, because of BSEN, I am capable of doing “the work that makes the world work!
Branyon Clarke
After earning my first bachelor’s degree, I wanted to continue my education but wasn’t sure how. A friend’s enthusiasm for his biosystems classes piqued my interest, and after some research followed by a conversation with Dr. Fasina, I was sold. Starting the next semester, I was nervous about classes, professors, and fitting in—turns out I had nothing to worry about. Classmates became friends, then a second family. The courses were challenging yet exciting, pushing me in new ways. The professors were approachable, genuinely cared about my understanding, and always welcomed my questions. Their support and guidance have prepared me for the real world in countless ways. Biosystems quickly became my home. To pick what I love about biosystems and the community we have within Corley Hall would be impossible, but I can promise one thing to anyone reading this – You won’t find anywhere as special as Auburn University Biosystems Engineering.
Jake Gaertner
Growing up, I always knew I wanted to attend Auburn, though I wasn'et sure at first about my major. While I aspired to go to medical school, I also wanted to study engineering to develop strong problem-solving skills and an unbreakable work ethic. After touring the BSEN Department in high school, I knew this was the place that would help me take the next step in my education. Through engaging classes, hands-on research, and a faculty and staff that rival any department in the country, I've been able to achieve my goals here at Auburn and I'm thrilled to share that I've been accepted to medical school. The Biosystems Engineering Department has been an integral part of my time at Auburn, preparing me for success both professionally and personally. I will always be proud to be a BSEN alumnus and look forward to applying the experiences I've gained here.
Mitchell Koser
I have thoroughly enjoyed these past five years in Auburn's Samuel Ginn College of Engineering (Biosystems) program. I pursued the Ecological track, where I gained a solid foundation in both theory and practical application. The program places emphasis on an environment combining both lecture material and hands-on labs that complement each other. Biosystem's emphasis on real-world problem-solving and innovative solutions has allowed growth both academically and professionally. I enjoy the small class sizes, which foster meaningful connections with professors and peers. I value the friendships I built along the way, which enriched my college experience. Additionally, the program's focus on resume-building and career readiness helped me develop skills and connections that will propel me post-graduation. Overall, my time at Auburn has equipped me with the knowledge, experience, and network to pursue a fulfilling career in the engineering field.
Jordan Logan
I began my journey at Auburn as a chemical engineering student but was unsure if it was the right fit. A friend who had faced a similar dilemma introduced me to the Biosystems Engineering department. After researching, I realized the switch would be best for my growth. The program’s hands-on experiences in food processing, GIS, natural resources, and biofuels interested me, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge in labs. Through research and data analysis using tools like AutoCAD and ArcGIS, I developed technical skills essential for the workforce. The program’s rigorous coursework challenged me, broadening my expertise and preparing me for various career paths. I am grateful for the opportunities and knowledge gained, as Biosystems Engineering has provided a foundation for my future. The experience has shaped my academic journey, and I am confident in my ability to excel in any field I pursue.
Natalie Macaluso
My experience in Biosystems Engineering has been personally and professionally transformative. I hadn’t declared a major when I started my freshman year, and I spent my entire first semester meeting with professors and students in disciplines ranging from philanthropic studies to philosophy. The Biosystems Engineering students I met were uniquely compassionate, ambitious, and focused on making the world a better place. After interviewing Dr. Fasina for a class assignment, I was inspired by his passion and committed to Biosystems Engineering. The past four years have been filled with challenging projects, assignments that honed my engineering skills, and supportive friends. The department’s tireless efforts to connect Biosystems Engineering students to the larger Auburn University engineering community facilitated and advanced my job search and exposed me to valuable leadership opportunities. I can unequivocally say that choosing to pursue a Biosystems Engineering degree has been the most fulfilling endeavor of my Auburn experience.
Caleb Powell
My time as a biosystems engineering student at Auburn has been shaped by the relationships I’ve built and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. From working through challenging coursework with classmates to collaborating on group projects, the connections I’ve made have been one of the most valuable parts of my experience. Having a strong support system has made the tough moments easier and the successes even more rewarding. Beyond my peers, the professors have played a big role in my learning. Their guidance has helped me develop not just technical skills, but also problem-solving and critical thinking abilities that will be useful in my career. They’ve been more than just instructors, they’ve been mentors, always willing to offer advice and support. Looking back, Auburn has given me more than just an education. It’s given me lasting relationships, important life lessons, and the confidence to take on future challenges. The experiences and connections I’ve built here will stay with me long after graduation.
Katherine Bandholz
I had never heard of biosystems engineering before browsing Auburn’s website, but I’m so glad I picked this major. I couldn’t ask to be surrounded by better people in this department- it’s certainly a family atmosphere. My teachers care about my growth, and I have the pleasure of studying alongside friends. Biosystems courses are challenging but interesting; my favorites would probably have to be Coastal Engineering and Site Design. It was neat directly applying knowledge and skills I learned in different courses to internships. I am confident that this department has prepared me to start a fulfilling career, and I’ll look back on my time here fondly. Thank you!
Aaron Figa
I feel extremely lucky to have been in the BATMAN program, and it honestly changed my life at Auburn. This department cares about students more than anywhere else on campus, and you can feel it the moment you walk through the doors. It wasn't until I got to the Biosystems department that I got one-on-one experiences with staff, listened to as a student, and developed relationships with classmates that will last beyond graduation. Gaining hands-on experience with industry-leading technology for the biological and agricultural productions of food, fiber, and fuel is something that not everyone gets a chance to do. Through the biosystems department, students get exposure to this firsthand. The possibilities feel endless, and as a senior, I feel like I have had the opportunity to develop a unique skillset that can be used to improve the future of sustainability not just for farmers, but for all people.
Charley Golden
Growing up in Florida surrounded by water, I always felt committed to for preserving this vital resource. Following my passion for math, science, and problem-solving, I decided to pursue engineering. When touring schools, I always said “I want to be an engineer, but don’t want to build things”. At many other universities, this got confused looks, but touring Auburn Biosystems, everything just made sense. I was shown around the crawfish lab and was immediately hooked, it even inspired my college admissions essay! Through coursework and labs, I came to love field work and learned I want to play a role in the building of new things to contribute to the innovation behind the solution. Though my end goal has changed over time, the community of students and professors in this department has kept Auburn my home away from home and I couldn’t be prouder to be an Auburn Biosystems Alumna!
Louie Harris
When I started at Auburn, I thought I wanted to follow in my brother’s footsteps and work towards becoming a veterinarian. But, when I heard about the BATM program, I was immediately interested because I have always had a passion for technology and agriculture. I soon changed my major to BATM and loved every minute of it. I have been able to be a student worker in the BSEN program, which has allowed me to work alongside professors and research engineers. I found my place at Auburn in the Ag Ambassadors group and built life-long friendships through my experience in the College of Agriculture. I had a fantastic college experience, and I credit that to being a member of the BATM program. My experiences with fellow students and professors made me appreciate the Auburn family. I will always be grateful to have been a part of Auburn’s College of Agriculture.
Rice Nichols
A love for agriculture and forestry, coupled with parents who encouraged me to challenge myself, led me to pursue a degree in Forest-Biosystems engineering. The BSEN program afforded the opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in many different fields. From operating a skidder, to designing an incubator, to creating site designs in Civil3D, the courses I completed in the department helped develop practical skills I look forward to using in the future. The faculty and staff were always encouraging and demonstrated the importance of hard work and professionalism in and out of the classroom. Looking back, a major aspect of the program I’m thankful for are the relationships I developed with my peers. Working on (and often struggling with) homework and assignments was made a little easier because I always had friends in the same boat. Auburn Biosystems Engineering has given me so much more than a degree.
Caroline Sanders
My journey into the biosystems engineering department was unique. I started as a marketing major, then pre-med, then pre-vet, then pre-med again, THEN biosystems. I was introduced to biosystems by one of my best friends and then co-counselor at Camp War Eagle, Melisa Shaffer. When I switched into Biosystems as a spring-semester junior, I dove head-first into the amazing world of engineering. In addition to participating in algae research with Dr. Blersch, I have also had the opportunity to get involved with the entire Samuel Ginn College of Engineering, where I serve as a Cupola Engineering Ambassador, giving tours to prospective students, and as the Student Initiatives Student Assistant, where I help oversee the 50+ engineering student organizations and plan events for student engagement. My advice for students would be that it’s never too late to change your mind and try something new, and never pass up an opportunity. Concluding my journey, I am currently on the job hunt for an engineering consulting position, ideally specializing in water resources or coastal engineering. I'm excited to apply my diverse background and passion for biosystems engineering to real-world projects.
Morgan Aldridge
I grew up in a rural area in Alabama that fueled my passion for the outdoors. From spending time with my dad, a mining engineer, I have developed a passion for the world’s natural resources and how engineering can utilize and care for these resources. Spending time with my grandparents in summertime gardens led to a love of agriculture. My passion for these things led me to choose Biosystems Engineering because it applies engineering methods to our natural world. During my time at Auburn in the Biosystems department, not only have I found a major that will allow me to combine my interest in the outdoors with my professional career, but also has provided a community of people that have left a strong impact on me. BSEN has led me to life-long friends. The BSEN professors and staff stand out above all others because of their desire to help each student succeed. I am grateful to the Biosystems department for providing me with the academic skills to pursue a professional career and for the family-like community of my peers.
Kristen Black
Auburn has felt like home since the moment I stepped foot on campus. I discovered the Biosystems department during a tour of the College of Engineering at Auburn’s annual E-Day. Between my love for science and the environment, I knew immediately this was the place for me. I elected to pursue the Ecological track in Biosystems because it included courses I was most interested in such as Site Design, GIS, Waste Management, and Environmental Engineering. Each professor is passionate about their work and their students. They encourage communication and support you in every way they can. One of my favorite things about my time in Biosystems is how dedicated the professors and department head are whether it be trips to the field/lab for hands-on experiences or calling you by name in the hall to ask how your semester break was. The Biosystems department is a true family and I have loved every minute of my time here. I have made forever friends and I am proud to say that I have become a well-rounded and well-prepared Biosystems Engineer.
Camille Colter
When I began my engineering career at Auburn, I was in a program that I didn’t feel comfortable in but was afraid to “give up”. When I finally decided to put my pride aside for a program that would make me happy and fulfilled, I switched to Biosystems Engineering. Upon joining the department, I was immediately welcomed by faculty and students. The community within the program is truly unmatched. Dr. Fasina learned my name within my first month, I found community, I was working in Dr. Adhikari’s lab, and I received my first 4.0! The support and kindness I have experienced improved my mental health, showing my decision to join the department was one of the best decisions made in my undergraduate career. Thank you to all my professors, the faculty, and the friends I have made! I will always love the Biosystems Engineering Department and what everyone has done for me.
Audrey Gray
My experience in Biosystems has felt anything but ordinary. From the first impromptu visit to Corley during my senior year of high school, this department has been so special to me. The knowledge I’ve gained and the opportunities I’ve been afforded are indispensable. As for my relationships with my peers and instructors, they mean more to me than they will ever know. The education I’ve had the privilege to receive from this department helped a wide-eyed, ambitious young woman, with a very vague understanding of engineering, discover that she was capable of carving out the future she wanted for herself. Biosystems engineering encompasses a lot, across varying disciplines and specializations, but these people and this place make it all feel accessible.
Bradley Lowery
My time in this department has been nothing short of life changing. As a high school senior, I was certain of my passions in engineering, agriculture, and forestry. However, I had a difficult time finding a career path that would allow me to pursue these passions. After being informed of the department by my high school ag sciences teacher and completing a tour I was certain that there was no place I would rather pursue my education and career. The Auburn creed states “I believe in education, which gives me the knowledge to work wisely and trains my mind and my hands to work skillfully.” This department has made those powerful words a reality in my life. My professors have always made me feel a personal connection and provided an environment that was conducive to learning. I have made friends that will undoubtedly last a lifetime and experienced things that have helped mold me into what an Auburn man is supposed to represent. I have had the great fortune of accepting a job offer well before graduation that will allow me to utilize my education and pursue my passions that led me to this great department. I will always look back on my time in this department with fond reflection and hold immeasurable gratitude for the education I have received and the moments I have experienced while a student.
Jacob Powell
As a freshman, I was changing majors and was encouraged to seek opportunities in engineering. I’ve always enjoyed the outdoors and wanted my work to have a positive impact on the environment, so Biosystems seemed like the perfect fit. The BSEN staff have supported me in this endeavor, not only by ensuring I understood class content, but also by encouraging me to seek engineering experiences and helping me to find those experiences. The professors care about their students’ success and want to know them personally. Their classes challenged me to grow both in knowledge and in my teamwork abilities. Biosystems has prepared me to begin my career and make a positive impact!
Tatem Reynolds
I transferred to Auburn in January 2020, and found the biosystems engineering major that fall. Despite COVID and the hardships of transferring, I never once questioned being apart of the Biosystems Department. Even being online the professors got to know their students and I could tell they really cared about our success. Our major may be small but I enjoy it because it has given me the chance to form bonds with professors and faculty, as well as build awesome friendships with my peers. Engineering can be difficult, but having a department full of people who truly want you to succeed makes it more fulfilling when you do. I’m proud to be graduating with a BSEN degree, and I feel like I have been set up well for my future.
Timothy Squires
The biosystem engineering department has created an environment that feels like one big family while still creating ample opportunities to get out of my comfort zone. Being a part of this close-knit community gives the students and professors the ability to interact with each other on a personal level. I have been fortunate to interact with many successful and hardworking people within this program and on this campus. Through this program, I have built close relationships with peers and colleagues from several backgrounds and cultures. I chose biosystems because the world needs people who see things from a sustainable point of view while providing solutions to issues facing the world today. The small class sizes, rigorous degree path, and family-style environment in biosystems have allowed me to find my home on a campus full of opportunity
