Danielle Montalbano ’23 : Civil Engineering Technology

 

Why did you choose SUNY Poly?

It seemed like the best option, coming from a small high school to a smaller college. The small class size drew me in, and the campus is beautiful. The programs, both academically and otherwise, were a big selling point.

Why did you decide to pursue Civil Engineering Technology as a major?

I have always wanted to be an engineering major since I was a child. I’ve always been fascinated with how things work and are put together. In my major, I greatly enjoy seeing the real-life applications and what I will be able to do one day in the workforce.

How would you describe your relationship with your professors?

I would describe my relationship with my professors as very open and close. I have never felt nervous contacting a professor about anything. There have been occasions where I have not attended a class or missed assignments that I am usually on time with and the professor has reached out with concern asking if I was alright. All of my professors at SUNY Poly have shown their care for their students in many ways.

Is there an impactful academic experience during your time at SUNY Poly that stands out to you?

The most impactful academic experience would be in one of my current classes. The curriculum in my Structural Analysis class is always intriguing and helped me decide that my emphasis on my degree would be in Structure. The professor for that class, Mark Mattson, is always showing the class real-world applications of what we are doing, and I believe that it helps in solidifying that what we are doing now will be an integral part of our futures.

Are you involved in any extracurricular activities? 

This past year I was a member of the Orientation Advisor team and currently hold the secretary position for the casual debate club.

What has been your favorite class at SUNY Poly so far?

It is a strong tie between Structural Analysis and Principles of Geotechnical Engineering as both courses were extremely intriguing, and the class was often shown how these principles would apply in real life.

What has been the best experience at SUNY Poly so far?

Getting to meet and expand my friend group. I came to SUNY Poly not knowing anyone in my major or who was also living on campus, so getting to have a good group of friends both on and off campus has been really great.

After you graduate, what will you miss most about your time here at SUNY Poly?

I will miss the students I work with in class. Most of us have had classes together for the past three years and are all rather close. I will miss the comfort of not knowing something but knowing who I can turn to figure it out.