Hiking and Study Abroad Adventures in Chemical Engineering

This episode of Viterbi Voices features a dynamic conversation between hosts Paul Ledesma and Hannah Fonseca, joined by guest host Michaela, a junior chemical engineering major. The central focus is on Savannah Stotts, another junior chemical engineering student, who shares her transformative study abroad experience in London during her sophomore year. Despite the common perception that chemical engineering students face significant barriers to studying abroad, Savannah successfully navigated the challenge by planning early, remaining flexible with her destination, and leveraging her academic and extracurricular involvement. She discusses the cultural and emotional adjustments of living in London, the importance of community and friendship, and how her time abroad deepened her appreciation for both her home in LA and her academic journey. The episode also highlights her research experience at Texas A&M through a remote ORU program, her role as a study abroad ambassador, and her leadership in the Chemical Engineering Society. Beyond academics, Savannah emphasizes the importance of balance, time management, and personal well-being—practicing hiking, running, and maintaining relationships as essential outlets. The hosts also share personal updates from their own lives, including a recent alumni dinner, family visits, and upcoming campus events, reinforcing the podcast’s mission to showcase the vibrant student life at USC Viterbi. Key takeaways include: 1) Studying abroad is achievable for chemical engineering students with early planning and flexibility; 2) Building community through clubs and friendships enhances both academic and personal resilience; 3) Maintaining balance through non-academic activities like hiking and running prevents burnout; 4) Proactive involvement in campus organizations and research opportunities should begin early; 5) Communication and time-blocking using calendars are critical for managing a demanding academic schedule; 6) Personal passions—like music, food, and travel—should be prioritized to sustain long-term motivation; 7) Alumni and peer mentorship are invaluable resources for navigating college life; 8) USC’s location offers unparalleled access to nature and outdoor recreation, even in a major city.