Roxanne Ehrig, a senior studying Structural Engineering at UC San Diego, combines her academics with her passion for cross country and track. Inspired by an AP Environmental Science class, she initially considered environmental engineering but ultimately chose structural engineering for its flexibility toward sustainability. Through internships and service projects, particularly a transformative experience building homes in Tijuana, Ehrig gained insights into the real-world impact of engineering. Her academic journey continues as she prepares for graduate studies, focusing on earthquake engineering while exploring various career paths in the engineering field.

By the Numbers
  • Ehrig participated in a service trip to Tijuana, where she helped build two homes for families.
  • During her internship at WSP, she trained in PLS-CADD and PLS Tower software for six weeks.
Yes, But

Despite her achievements, Ehrig faces the complexities of balancing rigorous academic demands with athletics, which can lead to overwhelming pressure. Her evolving schedule illustrates the challenges scholar-athletes encounter in managing their time effectively.

State of Play
  • Ehrig is entering her senior year while concurrently starting a master's program, reflecting her commitment to academic growth.
  • She has gained professional experience through internships and service, expanding her understanding of engineering's real-world impact.
What's Next

Looking ahead, Ehrig plans to explore various engineering fields, particularly design engineering, and aims to continue pursuing opportunities at WSP after graduation. She's also set to take an undergraduate course in earthquake engineering, which may influence her career direction.

Bottom Line

Roxanne Ehrig embodies the commitment to merging engineering with sustainability, using her diverse experiences to shape her future. Her journey highlights the importance of adaptability and the tangible impact that can stem from engineering work.