Reflection

MICHAEL O. SPEAR
STRUCTURAL OPTION

FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION
CENTER FOR DRUG EVALUATION AND RESEARCH
OFFICE BUILDING 2, WHITE OAK, MD

ABET Outcome Survey

ABET outcomes for ae481w/482	outcome not able to be assessed	level of ability demonstrated but below acceptable	minimum acceptable level of ability demonstrated	more than a minimum level of ability demonstrated
	(score of 0)	(score of 1)	(score of 2)	(score of 3)
a) an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering				x
b) an ability to design a system, component, or process to meed desired needs				x
c) an ability to design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs				x
d) an ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems				x
e) an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility				x
f) an ability to communicate effectively				x
g) the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context			x
h) an ability to engage in life-long learning				x
i) a knowledge of contemporary issues			x
j) an ability to use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice				x
k) engineering design capabilities in at least two of the three basic curriculum areas of architectural engineering, and that design has been integrated across the breadth of the program			x
l) communication and interaction with other design professionals in the execution of building projects				x

Senior Thesis Reflection

Senior Thesis was difficult; at least for me it was. It was not the encompassed material or the design process which posed the greatest obstacles. Rather, it was the individualized responsibility for the entire project, which created the most headaches, but also allowed for personal growth. It was my duty to evaluate research methods and design guides and apply them to my project as necessary. The professors did not show us the “correct method” and guide us through each phase of our design process. I was responsible for my own deadlines and work schedule. This was by far my largest hurdle and I struggled with my own motivation at first; however in surpassing this initial struggle, I gained some of my most valuable information from this thesis and I am a better student, and will be a better professional as a result of this course.

CPEP Reflection

One of our first assignments was to create a website. This pretty much set the tone for the thesis: here, you are responsible for a task, for which you have no prior experience, and we really aren’t going to show you how to complete it – good luck. But as with senior thesis in general, I am now a stronger and more knowledgeable student having surpassed this challenge.

Overall, the CPEP is a wonderful tool. It allowed me to concisely collect and present all of my thesis work, not only to the professors and fellow students, but also to my family and friends.