Armand Awad, B.S., Mechanical Engineering '11

1. What research are you working on?

Currently I'm working on autonomous control for a quadrotor helicopter as part of the Automated Systems Laboratory. This is an important problem because quadrotors are much more  agile than their one-rotored cousins, which means that they can be useful in many applications where helicopters are limited.

2. How did you get involved?

I decided that I wanted to do get a different perspective on mechanical engineering, so I started looking into different research labs. The Automated Systems Lab was a perfect fit for me since I have a strong interest in dynamics and control.

3. Do you have any advice for other students considering research in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering?

If you can, start early. I started doing research in the spring of my Junior year, and my only regret is that I didn't start looking into it earlier. It's a lot of fun, and the experience that you get is very different from regular academics.

4. Why did you choose to study Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Cornell?

I wanted to study an interdisciplinary field, and mechanical engineering seemed to fit the bill with its strong links to material science, civil, and electrical engineering among others. Cornell has a reputation for a good mechanical engineering program with many opportunities for its undergraduates, so I felt like it had a lot to offer me.

5. What do you do for fun?

In my free time, I enjoy skiing and rock climbing. Of course, hanging out with friends and watching movies are also high on my list.