Meet the Mechanical Engineering Mentors!

Riya Gyanmote (Lead Mentor)

Hi! My name is Riya, and I’m going to be a junior in mechanical engineering. I also minoring in computer science. This summer, I am working at ITW in Watertown, Wisconsin as an operations intern. On campus, I’m on the officer board as the mentorship for Women in MechSE, involved in SWE’s team tech committee and a part of a Bollywood dance team called Zindaa! In my free time, I love to binge New Girl and Jane the Virgin episodes as well as cook with my friends. I’m excited to meet you all in August!

Anna Fortelka

Hi! My name is Anna, and I will be a sophomore this year in mechanical engineering. On campus, I am involved with Illini Motorsports, SWE, and Cru! I will be working this summer with Caterpillar in the Integrated Components and Solutions division. In my free time, I love bullet journaling and spending time outside with my friends. I can’t wait to be a WIE mentor this year!

Kirsten Polen

Hi! My name is Kirsten and I am going to be a junior in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Sustainability. On campus, I am involved in various RSOs such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and Society of Women Engineers (SWE). This summer, I plan to take several courses and volunteer locally. In my free time, I enjoy painting, hiking, baking, and playing video games. I can’t wait to be your WIE mentor and meet you all in August!

Emily Wilson

Hi! My name is Emily and I am a Junior in Mechanical Engineering, but I was a part of the engineering undeclared program my freshmen year. I am from St. Louis, Missouri and this summer I am interning at Ameren’s nuclear power plant in Calloway, Missouri. On campus, I am an exec member of the engineering social sorority, Phi Sigma Rho, and a member of ASME competition committee. I also work as a Physics Learning Assistant. In my free time, I am a huge Illini basketball fan and volunteer in the local Champaign community through Phi Eta Sigma honor society. I am excited to be returning as a WIE mentor this year and can’t wait to meet all of you.

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