Student Profiles - MCEER: Earthquake Engineering to Extreme Events - University at Buffalo

“I’m pushing myself to explore my options, and UB has been a great place for doing that.”
8/4/16
John Student
Mathematics and Computer Science and Engineering Major
8/4/16
Esther Buckwalter
BS, Environmental Engineering '13
"There are a lot of people here that are very interested in what they do, and they are always ready to help."
8/4/16
Brennan Dubuc
Civil Engineering Major
8/4/16
Alanna Olear
Environmental Engineering Major
"I’m very lucky to be here. I wanted to pursue structural and earthquake engineering, and the lab here is showcased and it's a hallmark."
5/1/17
Ramla Qureshi
Pursuing PhD in Structural and Earthquake Engineering
"There are many passionate professors in the department who aim to create an interactive learning environment for students or make the extra effort to show industry application."
8/4/16
Wil Nagengast
Pursuing BS in Civil Engineering
"I am interested in conducting research in remediation of contaminants, especially by renewable and efficient means."
8/4/16
Luke Scanell, BS '11
Pursuing MS in Water Resources and Environmental Engineering
“When you’re constantly outside surrounded by the environment, it reminds you that it’s something you want to take care of and protect."
8/4/16
Alexandra Leader
Pursuing BS in Environmental Engineering
“The faculty in the program are always available to help and want to see students succeed.”
5/1/17
Adrianne Richardson
Pursuing BS in Civil Engineering
"If you have an idea that you want to pursue, someone will be willing to help you make it a reality."
5/1/17
Matthew Falcone
Pursuing BS in Environmental/Civil Engineering
“I would really encourage prospective students to look into the merit-based scholarships that UB offers and apply early. There are a lot of opportunities.”
12/22/16
Julie Powers
Pursuing BS in Environmental Engineering
“I figured if I was going to narrow it down to anything, I’d choose bridges. They bridge gaps, it’s one of the most important things to bridge gaps between people.”
2/21/19
Adetunji "Idris" Adesina
Pursuing a BS in Civil Engineering
"From organizing key sustainability initiatives on campus, to leading a club, to mentoring first-year students, to participating in a study abroad trip during my final winter session, I can say with certainty that when I graduate in May, I feel ready to tackle life's next challenges."
2/20/18
Madeleine Dewey
Pursuing BS in Environmental Engineering
"Try to get as involved as possible. We are big on research, so despite what year of school you’re in, go and talk to people and you might find something you are interested in."
2/22/18
Anandharam Mourougassamy
Pursuing BS in Civil Engineering
"Research under faculty mentorship has allowed me to explore how environmental engineering can bring social change to the developing world, and inspired me to create change in my local community."
3/22/21
Isabel Hall
Pursuing MS in Environmental and Water Resources Engineering
"I have a lot of pride in my department and what I do. I hope I can show everyone what it means to be a civil engineer."
2/14/20
Zachary Vacek
Pursuing MS in Sustainable Transportation and Logistics
“I didn't want to be doing the same thing every day. Civil engineering allows me to pursue my interests with parallels to the environment, structures and construction.”
3/22/21
Jillian Quinn
Pursuing a BS in Civil Engineering
“Strive to produce high quality work that you are proud of, but don't forget to take time for yourself as well.”
9/6/23
Christian A. Werner
Pursuing a MS in Environmental and Water Resources Engineering
“As long as you want to learn and develop as an engineer, you will get where you need to be!”
9/6/23
Daniella Kata
Pursuing a BS in Civil Engineering
“There will be challenges outside the engineering field after you graduate; be prepared for those challenges and know you will make it through.”
12/8/25
Ye Wang
PhD candidate, Transportation Engineering
“I would say that you don't have to have it all figured out when you're in college. As much as you want to get as much bang for your book, college is an investment. You don't want to just mess around. ”
12/8/25
Amaru Marsee
BS, Environmental Engineering
“The most impactful thing that was said to me was by Professor Atkinson: 'Don’t be boring and let yourself be bored.' It helped motivate me to do a lot more things.”
12/8/25
John Keefe
BS, Civil Engineering