Laura Campbell, Electrical Engineering Alum
Degree(s)
Bachelors of Science in Electrical Engineering ('90), Masters of Science in Electrical Engineering ('91)
Current Residence
Chattanooga, TN
Current Employer
Tennessee Valley Authority
What influenced your decision to attend Herff College of Engineering?
I am from a small, rural town and wanted to attend a school in an urban area. I was also a Cecil C Humphreys Scholarship recipient, which was a great help in the affordability of my college experience.
How did Herff prepare you for your career?
Herff set the foundation for a strong technical career in engineering but also a mindset and approach to problem solving that has served me in many different types of roles that I have had throughout my career.
What skills or knowledge did you learn throughout the program that you found most helpful in your career?
The Herff education sets a strong foundation for how to approach problems and systematically approach problems. I use these skills daily and have made a real difference not only as an engineer, but in life.
Who was your most impactful professor? Why?
Babajide Familoni. Dr. Familoni is not only a brilliant engineer, but he also possesses a high EQ. He was challenging but encouraging. He is the person that inspired me to continue with the post-graduate studies.
Were you involved in student groups? If so, which one(s)?
Yes, Tau Beta Pi (engineering honor society), Alpha Delta Pi (sorority)
What support(s) did you have during your time as a college student? How did you keep focused on the goal?
My future husband helped me keep perspective in the midst of the heavy coursework.
What was your greatest memory from your time at Herff?
As a leader in Tau Beta Pi, we were invited to attend a conference in New Mexico and tour Sandia National Laboratory. I recall being in awe at the work that the engineers at the lab were accomplishing
What advice would you give those considering enrolling in Herff College of Engineering?
First, ensure that your math skills are strong. Four years will seem like a very long time, but it is a very short time in the course of a career. A degree from Herff will be one of the best moves of your life.
What do you know now that you wish you had known during your time at Herff?
I knew but needed to be reminded that all of the hard work and sacrifice would all be worth someday - and it has been worth it -everyday for thirty-three years.
Was your Herff experience worth the price? If you could do it over again, what would you do differently?
The Herff experience was the best investment that I have made in my life. I easily passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE), and passed the Professionals Engineers Exam on the first try. I think this says a great deal about the quality of education that I received. The experiences I had in Tau Beta Pi (the engineering honor society) prepared me for future team leads and ultimately formal leadership roles as my career progressed.