Chikako is studying Chemical Engineering and is on the pre-dental track. She chose Chemical Engineering because she had many different interests coming into college and liked that the major was very versatile and allowed her to explore all her different interests.
Life at UIUC
Why she chose UIUC: Chikako chose UIUC because of the great engineering program and because she really liked the campus and community.
Student Organizations
As a Women in Engineering Intern, Chikako helps to organize WIE Orientation and recruiting events. She is also involved with the social committee in the Society of Women Engineers.
Extracurriculars
Chikako does research in a chemistry lab on campus. She was also a part of the GFX Global Sustainability Scholar cohort last year and had the opportunity to travel to Costa Rica with the class. She also works for campus recreation and teaches classes at the UI Ice Arena.
After Graduation
Chikako plans to go to dental school after graduation to become a dentist.
Being a Woman in STEM
Chikako met her best friend at WIE Orientation and is close with many of the women she met through orientation and her GFX Scholars study abroad trip.
Advice to Freshmen
Chikako’s advice is to write down everything to stay organized and to make sure to manage your time accordingly.
