Michael Tyszko is a Civil Engineering major from Kinnelon, NJ. He shares why he chose to attend Catholic University and the School of Engineering, and what advice he has for prospective students.
Why did you choose to attend Catholic University and the School of Engineering?
"Out of every single school I toured, Catholic felt like home to me almost instantly. On my first tour, my parents told me that this school was for you. At first, I didn’t know what I wanted to major in, so I chose civil engineering on a whim. But after the first intro engineering class, I knew I made the right choice almost instantly. The professors are so easy to reach and I felt like I can do anything in the School of Engineering."
Why do you want to be an engineer?
"I had a feeling that engineering would be right for me but I jumped between career paths so much I didn’t know what I wanted to do. After our first construction site tour in our Civil Engineering class, I knew that this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Now, I love it more and more with each day."
What's been your favorite part of being a student at Catholic University?
"My favorite part of being a student are the opportunities to do what I want to do in and out of my major. As a sophomore, I am already leading the Civil Engineering society in events that I think are fun that will help me and everyone else grow in the field. Outside of civil engineering, I always wanted to learn how to play the Pipe Organ at mass, so I am able to take organ classes and practice on my free time. Outside of class, I am on the hockey team, which is my favorite sport. Then on Sunday’s, I am an Altar Server in the biggest church in North America, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, which is pretty much right on campus."
What advice would you give to prospective students?
"I would say that you shouldn’t stress over what major to choose or what you want to do after graduation. You will grow so much, not just academically, that everything will be more clear to you. I look back and often think why didn’t I choose civil engineering or Catholic University sooner. So, don’t stress, don’t think about what others may think of your major or school, just do what your heart desires."
