Undergraduate Spotlight: Olivia Langenderfer

Posted: 
Olivia Langenderfer

Where is your hometown?

Sylvania, Ohio, a northern suburb of Toledo, Ohio.

What is your area of study and what made you pursue it?

I am studying mechanical engineering. I have always been fascinated by mechanical systems and knowing how they internally work, so if felt like the right place for me.

What brought you to Ohio State?

I’ve always heard good things about Ohio State’s Engineering program, and its proximity to my hometown made it a good decision for me and my family.

What do you like most about the major and opportunities OSU allows?

I like the flexibility mechanical engineering offers. Personally, I want to pursue a career in aerospace but if my plans change later in life, I have a broad, diverse background of engineering to fall back on.

What is the best class you have taken so far and why?

ME 2900. It was an amazing introduction to real-life design and manufacturing in engineering. I am also a teaching assistant for the machine shop portion of the class, which is one of my favorite things at OSU.

What advice would you give high school students considering pursuing engineering as a major?

Engineering is hard for everyone in different ways, and everyone is on their own path. It’s easy to get caught up in comparison and competition but remember that someone else’s success does not diminish yours.

What is an important decision you made during your time at MAE?

I will never regret joining the Buckeye Space Launch Initiative (BSLI). I have made so many friends and memories while on the team and I cannot imagine my college experience without BSLI. Easily one of the most important and influential decisions I have made!

What was your favorite activity to do as a kid?

I loved playing video games on the GameCube with my brother and sister. I have very fond memories of spending hours on Animal Crossing, Paper Mario, and Pikmin with them.