Kirsten L. '15

Hey! My name is Kirsten, K-I-R-S-T-E-N. Not Kristen, or Kirstin, or any other derivation of my name that you can think of (more on that later, but I’ve found that every person I’ve met so far at MIT can spell my name!) Anyways, now that that formality is over, welcome to the expanses of my brain!

At MIT, I'm studying Course 2 (Mechanical Engineering), learning all about the wonders of control systems, beams, manufacturing, and of course building things. From all the things that I'm learning at MIT, I hope that I'll be able to go out and change the health care system by working on medical robots... but if that doesn't work I'd be happy just building cool things!

As for some personal details about me, I’ve lived in Georgia for practically my whole life. I’m used to heat, heat and more heat. So this variable weather in Cambridge is a little different… but I've been able to survive the cold weather since technically I’m Canadian (oh the number of jokes I have incurred due to this). I definitely consider myself a nerd at heart. Nothing beats the feeling of learning something neat about anatomy or finally getting the solution to a difficult math problem that makes you want to bang your head into a wall repeatedly. I’m also pretty crazy about robotics. In high school, I worked extensively in my robotics club, building functional robots that were definitely tricked out (Shout out to Team 3318 and 675C!).

Nevertheless, my passion for math and science is definitely matched with my passion for art. I thoroughly enjoy wandering around art museums and taking in all the history behind the paintings and sculptures. In my spare time, I love to take photographs, baking delicious things I find on the internet, or make random crafts.

At MIT, I’ve really enjoyed the chance to develop myself. It’s always been my philosophy to never be the smartest person in the room. The reason being that if I am, then I’m never challenged to improve. Let just say there’s no better place to surround myself with smarter people than MIT! I also believe in taking as many opportunities as I can. Trying new things is how I’m able to find new interests or create new perspectives. MIT definitely does not lack opportunities to pursue new interests or try new activities.

As I go out and explore everything at MIT, I'll be sure share all my adventures through colorful photos, lovely drawings, and of course thoughtful words of wisdom. So I hope that you’re along for the journey! It’s going to be legendary.