At a glance
“There are so many high-quality professors that have worked in the industry. The class sizes are small, and the professors can help. We learn everything during lectures and put them to use on paper and then we go into labs and use apparatuses and do experiments using actual tools."
Bee Williams
Bee Williams (Canberra, Australia) always wanted to study abroad and her passion for basketball and mechanical engineering led her to Alfred State. She has experienced new things, gained leadership experience, and is excited to see what the future holds for her.
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“Not only was I recruited for the basketball team, but I found out that this is one of the best schools for engineering in the area. I got scholarships based on my academics and it made it cheaper than me going to university back home.”
The professors and the academic program had an influence on Bee. “There are so many high-quality professors that have worked in the industry. The class sizes are small, and the professors can help. We learn everything during lectures and put them to use on paper and then we go into labs and use apparatuses and do experiments using actual tools. We get experience on how to use them and see how it is applied in our field.”
Bee has always dreamed of going into space. “Mechanical engineering gives me the flexibility to be able to move into whatever field I want. I might not be able to specifically work on a rocket ship, but I could be working on the bearings that go into a rocket ship. Mechanical engineering gives me more opportunities than going into a specific field.”
Bee was searching for a different college experience. “My hometown is four times the size of Rochester. So, to be able to come to a small community was to experience something different. Alfred is a small tight-knit community where everyone can find their own place.”
Getting involved outside the classroom has only enhanced her college experience. Bee played on the basketball team for two years, joined Greek life as a sister in Pi Nu Epsilon, is a civic engagement advocate, and worked as an orientation leader.
“Opportunities to get involved and get engaged are offered to students all the time here. I am slowly building up my reputation and resume. Not only are you getting an amazing degree, but I have also had all these opportunities to build up my personality and who I am as a person.”
Bee found the process of applying to and getting the necessary international paperwork done easy. “Alfred State was great in getting me all the documents that I needed for my F1. They replied to emails within one or two days which was helpful.”
During her time at Alfred, Bee has experienced a few firsts and explored new areas of New York. “I saw my first proper snow storm, saw new animals like deer and squirrels, and I have tried lots of different foods and restaurants. I have gone to New York City a few times, been to Buffalo and Niagara Falls, and I love Stony Brook State Park.”
After graduation, Bee and her family plan to explore more of the United States before heading back to Australia. “A degree from an American college is viewed very highly back home. I have been able to build my resume so much with my extracurricular activities.”
Alfred has become a second home to Bee. “The biggest reason I choose Alfred State is because of the community. No matter what degree you are pursuing, or what background you come from, Alfred State is so accepting to all its students. We have so many opportunities, there is never a day where there is not something going on.”
Bee traveled across the globe and Alfred State has helped Bee launch her career.