Klein builds confidence in engineering through practice and support

It is a common misconception that all engineering students must be born with a natural gift in math or science to succeed. Danielle Klein, fourth-year student in industrial and systems engineering, had to convince herself that she could pursue her degree without an extensive background in math and science. 

Klein discovered industrial and systems engineering through an OHIO graduate who was actively working in healthcare. Klein’s dream was to work in healthcare to address disparities in medical treatment, but she wasn’t sure which academic path best achieved that goal — until she spoke with a Bobcat who was on the same path. Klein quickly discovered that industrial and systems engineering with a concentration in health systems would give her the skills to analyze and optimize systems in healthcare.

To her own disappointment, Klein did not excel in math in high school. While she loved the career possibilities that she could have with an engineering degree, she was intimidated by the rigor of the course load.

“I never thought I would go into engineering until I picked it. I was not great at math and science in school,” said Klein. 

With her career goals in mind, Klein committed to industrial and systems engineering. Beginning her first semester, she enrolled in pre-calculus with concern that she wouldn’t succeed. She quickly discovered that her instructor was invested in her success. She began to gain confidence in basic skills, creating a solid foundation in math. 

“I was very scared because I didn’t have a pre-calc class in high school, but this was my favorite math class I’ve ever taken. I felt a sense of accomplishment because I could teach this to someone else,” recalled Klein. 

After she completed the course, Klein began helping other students with pre-calculus and embraced the rigor of engineering. She discovered that she did not need to be naturally gifted in math and science to succeed in the program; she needed to learn how to ask for help from her peers, advisors and instructors. 

“All of the faculty members in industrial and systems engineering and the Russ College are so excited to be able to share their knowledge, help students and talk to you about your personal and professional development,” said Klein. 

Klein has experienced the power of a helping hand through her own challenges and has prioritized helping others as a result. As an engineering ambassador, Klein gives tours to prospective students and is quick to share that engineering doesn’t have to be intimidating. The key to her success was to get involved, continue learning and embrace help.

“I wasn’t here because I was great at math and science," Klein said. "I was here because I thought what you could do with engineering was really cool.”