Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

Current year: Junior

Kalaya's emphasis area is in transportation engineering where she aims to work on a mass transit project as a civil engineer.

Why I chose Purdue Civil and Construction Engineering

I have always had an interest in engineering — especially civil engineering. My dad is a civil engineer, too, so he would always tell me and teach me things about roads and buildings, and I always found it very interesting. Also, my dad, aunt, uncle, and grandma all studied at Purdue University, and I loved the campus whenever I came for a visit, so I was confident that this was the right place for me very early on.

Emphasis area

My emphasis area is in transportation engineering. Growing up in Chicago without a car, I grew to really appreciate the importance of mass and public transportation. A dream of mine is to eventually work on a transportation project that people can really benefit from.

Kalaya is involved in a number of organizations at Purdue, including the Purdue Institute of Transportation Engineers.

Engineering and education opportunities

I am involved in several organizations — both on campus and in Chicago. I am with the Purdue Institute of Transportation Engineers, am a Purdue Professional Practice ambassador, and a mentor in Chicago’s Architecture, Construction, and Engineering program. I have also had the opportunity to study abroad in Spain and Australia thanks to course offerings at Purdue.

After I graduate

After I earn my Bachelor's degree, I plan to earn my Master's. I am still unsure if I will choose civil engineering or another focus, but I definitely want to pursue something that will help me be stronger civil engineer.

Kalaya's emphasis area is in transportation engineering where she aims to work on a mass transit project as a civil engineer.