UT College of Engineering Annual Report 2003-2004

DRIVEN TO EXCELOutstanding UndergraduateTeKisha SampsonTeKisha Sampson knew before she started college thatindustrial engineering was going to be her chosenfield. “When I was in high school, I was involved ina program that was geared to introduce minorities to industrialengineering and engineering management. From 10th grade on Iwas hooked. I knew what I wanted to do when I grew up,” saidSampson.Now a senior in industrial engineering, Sampson’s enthusiasmfor engineering has increased with her experience in the discipline.“I have been given a broad base of knowledge to workwith. I think it’s exciting that engineering is different from othermajors—I don’t just receive industrial engineering training, Ireceive training from other engineering fields, and I believe thiswill make me a better engineer,” said Sampson.Sampson has been involved with the Office of Professional Practice’sprograms since her freshman year. During her sophomoreyear she was an Engineering Ambassador, mentoring and tutoringstudents, and giving presentations to prospective COE studentsand their parents. After her sophomore year she had the chanceto begin a co-op position. “Being involved in the co-op programhas helped me learn more about myself,” said Sampson. “My coopexperience—being in new and unfamiliar situations—taughtme responsibility, and to not be afraid of going after my goals.”Sampson received the COE Office of Professional Practice’s 2004annual service award. The award goes to students who haveshown excellence and dedication to the Co-op Engineering Program.Participating in the co-op program has helped Sampson in otherways. “I believe this is one of the best opportunities I have hadduring my years at UT. I learned so much while in the program,not only academically but socially and personally,” Sampson said. UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING