Student Spotlight: Sam Christensen

Meet Sam Christensen, a senior in electrical engineering from San Diego. Sam enjoys tinkering with circuits and drones, but his next chapter is law school, and his big dream is to become a Supreme Court justice. Professional and academic endeavors aside, Sam enjoys the outdoors, English lit, and the cinematic stylings of Will Smith. Get to know Sam!

Q: Why did you decide to study engineering?
A: I decided to study electrical engineering after a college outreach program I attended at the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). I was in seventh grade, but it stuck!

Q: What has been the best part of your engineering education so far?
A: I have enjoyed so many things! At the top of the list, club involvement, research opportunities, and the fascinating coursework!

Q: Are you involved in research?
A: Yes, I do research with Dr. Christensen in the Autonomy Lab. We study navigation and controls for autonomous vehicles. I’ve worked on a number of projects, including building drones, configuring a motion-tracking camera system, and localization with RFID tags.

Q: Are you involved in any clubs or student organizations?
A: I joined IEEE as a freshman and have served as a secretary and president. I enjoy the opportunities to serve other students and network with students, faculty, and industry members.

Q: What are your hobbies?
A: Jiu-jitsu, canoeing, and backpacking

Q: What is the best thing you’ve read in the last month?
A: I’m reading ‘The Brothers Karamazov’; it’s really good!

Q: What’s your favorite place you’ve ever visited?
A: Mt. Tallac in Lake Tahoe

Q: Favorite movie?
A: “The Pursuit of Happiness”

Q: What is your favorite class?
A: Circuits 1!

Q: What’s an idea or quote you live by?
A: “Do a good turn daily.”

Q: Who is your hero?
A: Clarence Thomas

Q: What topic do you wish more people would learn about?
A: English literature

Q: What is your advice to younger students or incoming freshmen?
A: Get involved! You’ll never regret making friends at USU, and having their support, and advice will transform your time here!