Dalton Gavin
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Dalton GavinDecember 2023 Hometown: Culleoka, TN Graduate Program: MS Engineering: Mechanical |
How have your studies in the program factored into your career goals? Any influential mentors on campus?
“The courses I have taken during my graduate studies have provided me with the opportunity to improve my engineering skill set. Several projects have helped me gain proficiency with many industry-standard tools, while other aspects of my coursework have tested my problem-solving skills and allowed me to work on other soft skills that will greatly benefit my ability to work well in a team environment. Two influential mentors of mine have been Dr. Trevor Elliott and Dr. Chuck Margraves who both have fostered a desire to be a lifelong student and ultimately helped me set the academic goal for earning an advanced degree.”
Why UTC?
“I originally began my studies at UTC for my undergraduate degree for several reasons, but mainly because the mechanical engineering curriculum and university aligned with the academic goals that I had to gain a well-rounded education. It was not until my professors encouraged me to consider graduate school that I realized that was an attainable goal. I decided to stay at UTC for my graduate studies for several reasons: I had several great professors in my undergraduate courses that I wanted to learn advanced topics from, I wanted to broaden my studies by taking classes not typically available to undergraduate students, and I had the opportunity to assist with exciting research as a part of Dr. Trevor Elliott’s team.”
Favorite thing to do in Chattanooga?
“I have always loved the outdoors, and the opportunities for recreation around Chattanooga were one of the first reasons I loved this city. My favorite thing to do would be to hike and camp because there are so many great places to see and visit.”
Have you changed during your time at UTC?
“Since I began my graduate studies at UTC, I have grown to become more outspoken and collaborative, which are two qualities I think every professional can appreciate. I found it easier to interact both with the professors and other students when the class sizes are much smaller. Also, the numerous projects I worked on helped my communication skills when working with my classmates.”
Did you take any online courses?
“Yes, I took several online courses, and the part I most liked about them was the convenience of fitting them into your schedule. I have only taken asynchronous online courses and they offer flexibility that you can make work around your school, work, and life schedules. Some classes even let you work at an advanced pace if you would like to work ahead of time, which I greatly appreciated.”
What opportunities have you had to gain other skills?
“I have had the chance to be a part of Dr. Elliott’s additive manufacturing research team, which has helped me both to learn new skills and gain proficiency in those skills which I was already more familiar with. Another great opportunity to gain skills comes from the coursework, as many projects and assignments require you to use tools otherwise not utilized in undergraduate courses.”
Best part of going through the graduate program?
“The best part of my graduate experience has been the relationships I have been able to form both with my classmates as colleagues and with my professors as mentors. I have also greatly enjoyed the courses available to take and believe that I have been able to achieve the academic goals I set out for when starting graduate school.”
Advice for any incoming graduate students?
“Do not be afraid or discouraged if things do not come to you as easily as they may have in your undergraduate studies. At the same time, you must be prepared to commit the required time and effort into learning, which includes time away from the classroom. Don’t be afraid to ask for help because there are a lot more people out there that want you to succeed than you may think! Asking questions shows your professors and classmates that you are eager to learn.”