This profile series introduces materials scientists from around the world who happen to be females. Here we speak with Melanie Buziak, a student at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
What does your typical workday look like?
As a first-year master’s student with both a teaching and research assistantship, my schedule varies by the hour. My thesis is about additively manufactured precipitation hardenable 17-4 and 15-5 stainless steel and my teaching assistantship is with UT’s Office of Undergraduate Research. When I am not in class or the lab, I am working with students who are interested in getting involved in undergraduate research. I also help provide support for students who are already involved in research to participate in poster competitions or travel to conferences.
What part of your job do you like most?
Working in the Office of Undergraduate Research, I enjoy interacting with students interested in expanding their academic knowledge to laboratories or field work. I know my success is highly attributable to certain professors and teachers taking time out of their day to help me identify and prepare for the next steps in my education. I like to be that same support for students as they work to accomplish the same steps. The COVID-19 pandemic has limited our office’s interactions with students. Despite the challenge of making virtual interactions engaging to students, I am fortunate to work with passionate people ready to take on unprecedented challenges with dynamic solutions. What I like most about my job is the people and everything they have to share.
What is your greatest professional achievement?
My involvement in ASM’s Women in Materials Engineering’s Retention subcommittee and recent appointment to the Inclusion, Diversity, Awareness, & Equity (IDEA) committee has been the most exciting and fulfilling achievement thus far in my career.
Best career advice, given or received:
“Always read the manual. Then bring it with you.” – Dr. Chris Wetteland, my undergraduate lab
Instructor
Do you know someone who should be featured in an upcoming Women in Engineering profile? Contact Vicki Burt at [email protected]
