Students Success Stories

Jessica Laus
Major: Aerospace Engineering
Co-op/Intern Employer:
Glenn L. Martin Wind Tunnel
Location: College Park, MD

Why did you choose to participate in a co-op?
I was a junior aerospace engineering student, burnt out on studying and tired of taking exams. Every day I would drag myself to class and wonder how on earth my studies would apply to my career. That's when I decided I needed to take some time off for a co-op. I was hired at the University of Maryland's Glenn L. Martin Wind Tunnel where I had the experience of a lifetime.

Describe the projects you worked on at your co-op.
As one of only seven employees, I really got my hands dirty and was given serious responsibilities. My job was that of a wind tunnel operator where I logged over 1700 test runs. During my co-op year, I worked with 30 different client companies including Ford Motor Co., the Navy, General Electric, and even the U.S. Men's Olympic Bobsledding Team. Not only did I get to perform the tests, but I also helped with tunnel maintenance, data analysis, electronic and mechanical balance systems. I also learned to do basic machining for the creation/repair of tunnel models. I was finally living like an engineer.

How did this co-op shape your future plans?
The last client to come through the tunnel during my co-op was Sikorsky Aircraft Company. During their five-week stay I got to know the engineers pretty well. I enjoyed working on their model and was intrigued by the company that boasted to be the top helicopter manufacturer in the U.S. When the test was completed, I gathered business cards from the engineers. Now, nearly a year later, I have been offered a full-time position for my dream job with Sikorsky. My co-op offered me another opportunity as well: working as a peer-advisor at the Engineering Co-op and Career Services Center where I encourage other students to enhance their college experience just as I did.