Biography

Nathan Lovell, Catholic University '25, is a civil engineering student from Easton, Maryland. After graduation, he will begin his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin. 

Briefly describe your new opportunity.

"I have accepted an offer to participate in a fully-funded Ph.D program in Mechanical Engineering at UT Austin. I will be paid to work part-time, either as a Teaching Assistant or Graduate Research Assistant, while I complete coursework and research towards my dissertation."

How did your School of Engineering and Catholic University education help you find this graduate degree?

"Aside from the knowledge and skills imparted to me through the classes, the School of Engineering helped me find my first internship in civil engineering. Additionally, the engineering curriculum provided me the flexibility to take courses in mechanical engineering because I was interested in them. These courses, particularly those taught by Dr. Nguyen and Dr. Turo, convinced me that I wanted to pivot to mechanical engineering and that I was capable of making that change. Dr. Nguyen's recommendation letter helped me get into a research school at the Los Alamos National Laboratory in the summer after my junior year, a very formative experience, which convinced me to pursue graduate school. Mentorship from Dr. Turo and Dr. Solares was instrumental in helping me process my thoughts about grad school, especially about whether to apply for the Ph.D or for the Masters only. Dr. Nguyen and Dr. Solares also wrote recommendations for my applications to graduate schools, which led to the offer which I have now accepted. For all this and much more, I am grateful to the School of Engineering."

What activities were you involved in during undergrad?

"CUA Men's Rowing, Cardinal Service Corps, CUA Intramurals, Habitat for Humanity, CUA Swing Dance Club"

What were some highlights of your time at The Catholic University of America?

"Among my favorite memories at Catholic University were the thrilling races, spring break trips, and postseason training programs with the Men's Rowing team. I will also remember late night rosary walks with my McDonald housemates, snow days on campus, the cherry blossom season, indie concerts in the city, and never being able to walk anywhere on campus without seeing a friendly face."

What advice do you have for students during their own job search?

"Know yourself, put your trust in the Lord, and take a leap of faith. If you feel pulled in an exciting new direction, but are not sure if you are qualified for it, be bold and go for it. If you put your trust in the Lord, he will always lead you in the correct direction - towards himself."