Joey Vetter

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Why did you choose Aeronautics and Astronautics?
Space and everything space related has been my passion since I visited the Kennedy Space Center as a kid.

Best event or organization you’ve participated in within AAE?
Purdue Space Program is my favorite because there are so many different projects to join. You can learn about almost any aspect of aerospace from the different teams./p>

Best event or organization you’ve participated in outside of AAE?
My favorite organization is Rising Professionals because I got to make a lifelong connection with Purdue Alumni and learn from their experiences.

Why did you want to be an AAE Ambassador?
I love what the Purdue AAE program and department has to offer and wanted the chance to show people the benefits of Purdue AAE as they have been shown to me.

Favorite place on campus?
I love studying in the small rooms at Lambertus and Dudley.

Favorite class you’ve taken thus far and why?
My favorite class to this day is AAE203 - Aeromechanics I because I had a professor that was able to show us how useful math is in aerospace engineering and really gave me the passion to continue to pursue my degree.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a potential AAE student?
Do not compare yourself to others! Everyone is going to come in with a different level of knowledge about everything, so work on yourself and don't be disgruntled if it looks easier for some people because everyone will struggle at times and that is okay.

Who is someone you look up to in the Aero/Astro industry and why?
My hero is Katherine B. Johnson. She was a pioneer in the heavily white-male dominated field and showed that anyone can be an aerospace engineer. She worked very hard on the first space missions for NASA and was a decorated hero.

What motivates you to succeed?
My motivation is my future. I put effort into everything I do, knowing it is going to make me a better person. I want to be the best version of myself today so that I can do the same tomorrow.

What is your ultimate career goal?
I would love to be a lead engineer or even start my own company doing control system dynamics for satellites and other small payloads.

What do you like to do when you’re not studying/in the lab or classroom?
I love spending time with my friends whether that is getting food or watching a movie.

Favorite Fun Fact about Purdue?
Purdue has the oldest university airport, founded in 1930!