Q&A with ChE peer mentor Maddy Gonley

Maddy Gonley is a junior studying Chemical Engineering and a current peer mentor with a strong passion for biopharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and polymer chemistry. She has gained experience through multiple internships, including roles at PepsiCo and Merck Animal Health, and has conducted research in the Szymczak and Schindler Labs. Maddy is also actively involved in the Society of Women Engineers, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, and the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program.

How did you choose ChE as your major?

“For me, choosing chemical engineering was about keeping my options open. No other major offers the same breadth of industries as chemical engineering. With this degree, you can pursue careers in pharmaceuticals, energy, oil and gas, consumer goods, food and beverage, cosmetics, and chemical manufacturing and development. When you enter college as a freshman, it can be difficult to know exactly what you want to do—let alone for the rest of your life. I wanted a degree that would provide flexibility and allow me the freedom to explore different fields. Chemical engineering is also incredibly versatile and multidisciplinary. If you have an interest in computer science, for example, you can work on creating models and using computational methods to evaluate the feasibility of projects. Alternatively, if you prefer a more hands-on approach, there are opportunities in research and development, where you can work at the lab scale to innovate before scaling up processes. The best part of this major is that you don’t have to decide right away what you want to do with it. You have the time and freedom to explore different areas and find where your passions truly lie. For me, this journey led me to discover a love for research and a desire to work in the pharmaceutical industry.”

Are you involved in a minor program? If so, which one?

“Yes, as part of the chemical engineering curriculum, you’re required to take a number of fundamental chemistry courses. Through these courses, I developed an interest in deepening my understanding of the foundational principles behind many chemical engineering concepts. This curiosity led me to pursue a chemistry minor, where I’ve taken a variety of courses in organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and organometallic chemistry. I enjoy how these subjects complement my major and provide me with a more well-rounded understanding of the chemistry that underpins much of what we do in chemical engineering.”

What advice would you give to first- or second-year students considering ChE?

“My biggest piece of advice is to get involved! While coursework is important, it’s the hands-on experiences that make the biggest difference when it comes to securing internships or full-time roles. Whether it’s participating in research, joining a project team, or being active in a consulting club, these activities provide opportunities to develop leadership skills, encounter real-world challenges, and learn how to overcome them. Being involved can also provide invaluable practical experience that you won’t always get from the classroom.”

What are some of your favorite or most interesting ChE classes you’ve taken?

“One of the most interesting classes I’ve taken so far is ChE 344, Reaction Kinetics. This course is a perfect blend of theory and application—it ties together many of the concepts we’ve learned in previous classes and applies them to real-world chemical reactions. Currently, I’m also taking a special topics class, ChE 496, on membranes. I’ve found it fascinating. Special topics classes allow you to dive deeper into areas that might have been introduced in earlier coursework, and in this class, we explore early literature on membranes and derive the basic equations used in separation processes (covered in ChE 343). It’s given me a much more cohesive understanding of why these processes work the way they do.”

What are some resources or support systems that have been the most helpful to you during your time as a ChE student?

“For me, the biggest resource has been my friends and peers in the major. Chemical engineering can be challenging, but having friends who understand the unique difficulties of the program has been incredibly valuable. Despite often competing for the same opportunities, everyone is so supportive and willing to help each other out. I also make sure to take full advantage of office hours—asking questions as they come up makes a huge difference in my understanding. Additionally, Lisa Clark, our chemical engineering advisor, has been an extraordinary resource. She’s always willing to help with any concerns, whether it’s academic guidance or making connections with others in the field.”

What opportunities would you recommend to students looking to get involved with chemical engineering outside of the classroom?

“I highly recommend getting involved in research! It’s an excellent way to explore different fields within chemical engineering and discover which areas resonate most with you. A lot of our coursework is theoretical, and research provides practical experience that brings the concepts to life. Michigan is an R1 research institution with some of the best researchers in the field, so students have access to incredible opportunities. I’ve been involved in three different labs during my time here, each focusing on different aspects of chemistry and chemical engineering, and it’s been an invaluable part of my education. There are several programs to help freshmen and sophomores get started, like the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), or you can always reach out directly to professors by email.”

Do you have any tips for maintaining a healthy work-life balance for students in a rigorous program like chemical engineering?

“I strongly recommend maintaining a detailed Google Calendar to help manage your time effectively. By visualizing your schedule, you can assess your availability and plan ahead—if you see that a busy week is coming up, you can adjust your work schedule accordingly. It’s also crucial to set boundaries. With so many opportunities and activities, it’s easy to overcommit yourself, but it’s important to carve out time to relax and recharge. I’ve learned that nothing is more important than getting enough sleep—working late into the night can be tempting, but you’ll be far more productive if you’re well-rested.”

What are your future plans or aspirations within the field of chemical engineering?

“Over the course of my studies, I’ve developed a strong passion for research, and I hope to continue my education after graduation by pursuing a PhD. I’m eager to deepen my research skills and further develop my abilities in science communication. Ultimately, I aspire to contribute to advancements in the pharmaceutical industry, helping to bring new solutions to the public through innovative research.”