Clarkson Student Spotlight: March '10

Peter Sturdevant ‘10
Engineering & Management

For being a transfer student, Cincinnati native Peter has certainly had his share of experiences during his short time at Clarkson. Not only is the engineering & management major involved in the Outing Club, the CU Transfer Student Association, and the E&M Society, but he also spent a semester studying in Australia, interned at two incredible companies, and had two co-ops at General Electric. Wow! So, we've got to learn Peter's secrets to success, and maybe some fun stuff too. Here's what we found out.  

The world is ending in one week! What's on your to-do list?
I have a book report due Thursday, but I am not going do that! I'll take four days to go to Europe and Indonesia. On my way home, I would ski dive from a plane into my hometown, and spend my last couple days play cards and spending time with my family and friends.

What do you think is the greatest invention of our time?
The internal combustions engine!

What are your favorite things about Clarkson?
I love the active and outgoing students, the great job placement rate, and how great job of a job Clarkson does of preparing you for the work force. I also like the amount of opportunities available. In three years, I've done two co-ops at General Electric, two internships (one at Knolls Atomic Power and one at Lockheed Martin), and one semester abroad in Australia.

What is your guilty pleasure?
Mashed potatoes.

What is your idea of a perfect Friday night at Clarkson?
Lately a perfect Friday night has been driving with friends to the high peaks of the Adirondacks and hiking early in the morning.

Why did you choose Clarkson?
It was the best value by far in terms of the reputation and the education that I would receive. Plus, it didn't hurt that I was offered a solid financial aid package.

Describe yourself in three words.
Outgoing, open-minded, optimistic.

Who is your favorite professor and why?
I'd have to say Mike Wasserman, assistant professor in the School of Business. He has a very industry-minded way of teaching. He uses a lot of real world examples and even has industry experts and successful Clarkson alums guest speak at our classes often. It's really cool.

What is your favorite spot on campus?
The Indoor Recreation Center. I love sports!

What are your plans for after graduation?
After graduation I am going on a month-long road trip with my motorcycle to South Carolina, Tennessee, Arizona, and California and meeting up with friends from across the country. Then I'll be working after the summer is over.