Senior thesis was not as difficult as I had expected. Guidance and assistance was always available through friends, peers, professors, and working professionals. Much of the things I had wanted to do with my thesis were not covered in my past course work, such as seismic design.  I had to teach myself the material.  This thesis project is one of the best individual project experiences I ever had in college.  I was able to freely express my goals and designs while still applying codes and standards.  It really does embody all the learned materials and experiences of the AE curriculum. This thesis experience had taught me the value of time management and dedication for a successful project. 


CPEP & Discussion Board Reflection

The CPEP requirement of our thesis work in my opinion is an excellent idea.  We are able to demonstrate our disciplines in the Penn State Architectural Engineering Department, and to show off the fruits of our year long labor.  It may also serve as teaching tool and an inspirational resource for viewers.    

The Discussion Board was an invaluable tool for the senior thesis students.  Through the board, we were able to obtain professional assistance or clarifications, a practice that we as Engineers in Training will have to do after graduation.  The feedbacks were swift and reliable.  Another advantage was the organization of the discussion board into each of the four options in the AE program at Penn State.  We were able to receive information pertaining to other options that provided us the inspiration for our breadth studies.  I had met many design professionals, and their continuing support and dedication to our AE program help enriched our understanding in the AE subjects and to develop a successful thesis.