BCoE Student Hall of Fame 2025: Haley Dean

What is your name, age, classification and major?
My name is Haley Dean. I’m 23 years old and majoring in Mechanical Engineering.

What year did you begin studying at MSU, and when is your expected graduation date?
I began studying at MSU in the fall of 2022. My expected graduation date is May 2025.

Why did you choose to attend MSU, and why did you choose an engineering field of study?
I chose engineering because I have always been enthusiastic about math, science, and creative problem-solving. My research showed that engineering combines these interests, allowing me to tackle challenging problems in innovative ways. My decision to attend MSU was solidified during an engineering discovery day hosted by the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). I was inspired by seeing current students in the program collaborating and encouraging one another, which created a sense of community I knew I wanted to be a part of. This experience made me confident that the Bagley College of Engineering was the right fit for me, aligning perfectly with my academic interests and aspiration to contribute positively to the field.

What are your favorite campus organizations you have become a part of?
My favorite campus organizations that I have become a part of include Bagley Ambassadors, Society of Women Engineers, Mechanical Engineering Ladies Organization, Tau Beta Pi, and Supplemental Instruction. In each of these roles, I’ve interacted with prospective students, incoming students, and alums, providing them with insights into the Bagley College of Engineering. These experiences not only allowed me to make a positive impact on others but also significantly shaped my journey as an engineer. Engaging with these individuals has enriched my perspective and strengthened my commitment to fostering a supportive engineering community.

What has been your favorite course you have taken at MSU and why?
My favorite course at MSU was Thermodynamics II, taught by Dr. Morgan Green. Her passion for the subject was infectious, and she challenged us to grasp the theoretical concepts and apply them in practical scenarios. Dr. Green's creative teaching style kept me fully engaged, and her emphasis on active participation truly transformed how I approached studying. This course not only deepened my understanding of thermodynamics but also instilled a sense of confidence in my problem-solving abilities.

On the fine arts side, I am currently enjoying Floral Design. This course is a delightful break from my engineering curriculum, allowing me to explore my creative side and engage in something fun and artistic. It is refreshing to work with colors and arrangements. Both courses have enriched my educational experience, showing me the value of balancing technical knowledge with creative expression.

Which course has been your most challenging at MSU and why? What was something you learned about yourself after taking that course?
My most challenging course at MSU was Machine Design with Dr. Bill Jones. He had high expectations for us, pushing us to develop a solid understanding of ASME standards and the course material and apply engineering judgment to real-world problems. This course pushed me beyond rote memorization; it demanded that I thoroughly comprehend the concepts and think critically. Dr. Jones was dedicated and committed to student success. As a result, this course made me a better student and engineer by fostering my ability to tackle complex challenges with confidence and creativity.

This experience taught me that engineering often involves ambiguity and complex problem-solving rather than perfect or straightforward answers. I realized I could think creatively and approach problems from various angles, strengthening my confidence in tackling challenges. Embracing this mindset allowed me to develop a more practical engineering approach, preparing me to apply my knowledge effectively in future endeavors.

What is one thing you have learned, related to engineering, during your time in the Bagley College of Engineering?
One thing I learned while at the Bagley College of Engineering is the critical importance of teamwork and developing my technical skills. My mentor and teacher, Mr. Ross Smith, emphasized the value of being a 'social engineer,' someone who can communicate effectively while understanding technical concepts. Participating in a group project early in my degree showed me that a project's success often hinges on proper communication within the team.

This experience taught me that fostering open dialogue, respecting different ideas, and leveraging each member's strengths can lead to innovative solutions and increased productivity. The BCoE has reinforced my belief that effective engineers are not only technically proficient but also skilled communicators and collaborators.

How has MSU and specifically the Bagley College of Engineering prepared you for professional life after college?
The Bagley College of Engineering has profoundly prepared me for professional life after college by equipping me with a strong foundation in both technical skills and essential soft skills. I have learned how to effectively troubleshoot and solve complex problems and the importance of conveying my ideas clearly and collaborating with diverse teams.

The BCoE goes above and beyond to support its students, offering hands-on experiences through projects, internships, and networking opportunities that have helped me build a professional mindset. For instance, engaging in collaborative projects with peers has taught me how to navigate different perspectives and work towards a common goal, a skill I know will be invaluable in my future career.

Overall, I am confident that the comprehensive education and experiences I received at the Bagley College of Engineering have prepared me to tackle technical challenges and instilled in me the leadership and communication skills necessary to thrive in the professional world. I am excited and ready to take on the challenges ahead.

What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and enter the workforce. I am eager to apply the knowledge and skills I have developed in the BCoE in a practical setting, where I can contribute to meaningful projects and continue learning from experienced professionals.

In the long term, I aspire to return to academia to pursue a master's and PhD. My goal is to teach within the Michael Hall School of Mechanical Engineering. I am passionate about sharing my knowledge and experiences with future engineers, helping to inspire and mold the next generation in the field. My time at MSU has prepared me well for my immediate career and future role in education, and I am excited about the journey ahead.

What will you miss most about MSU after you graduate?
What I will miss most about MSU is the people. While the campus itself is wonderful, the friendships I have forged, and the relationships I have with my professors have truly made my time here special. The support and encouragement I have received from my peers and mentors have been invaluable, and the daily interactions, whether chatting with friends between classes or discussing projects with my professors, have created a sense of community that I cherish.

Adjusting to life after graduation without these familiar faces will indeed be a significant change. However, I will carry with me the memories and lessons learned from these incredible individuals, and I am excited about what the future holds. I hope to maintain these connections as I embark on my professional journey.