Kate Handel

Kate Handel, ’23 in chemical engineering, from Memphis, Tennessee, is a chemical engineering graduate student. She is a second lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force and a graduate research assistant.

Why Auburn?

“Both my parents and two of my grandparents are Auburn alumni. I looked at other schools, but I grew up coming here, going to games and spending time on campus, and just couldn’t be pulled away. It sounds cheesy, but Auburn really does feel like home.”

ROTC

“I discovered Auburn’s ROTC program when I came for Camp War Eagle, and it was an opportunity that immediately resonated with my long-term career goals. I’m currently on an education delay to get my doctorate, but once I graduate, I’ll transition back to active duty and serve as a developmental engineer in the Air Force.”

Research

“I work with Allan David, associate dean for research, on nanomaterials for biomedical applications. We are currently focused on drug targeting, delivery and disease imaging. I’ve been lucky enough to work and learn in his lab since my time as an undergraduate student.”

Future goals

“My long-term goal is to be an astronaut. This goal has motivated my decision to join the military and pursue my doctorate. It’s been a dream of mine for more than 10 years now.”

To learn more about Handel, listen to her interview on the award-winning #GINNing Podcast.