There are many situations in life where one feels as if he is making a true difference and is in a state of contentment. For me, that situation was while attending North Dakota Boys State. North Dakota Boys State is a summer civic leadership program sponsored by the American Legion, a nationwide veteran's organization. I was content at Boys State because that was a place where I had responsibility and was able to work with peers and discuss not only...

Some people categorize engineers as geeks or nerds. Are you a geek, nerd, or neither? Why?

Engineers have been categorized as geeks for their love of technology and science. And many hopeful engineering-students have been seen as geeks as well, me being no exception. I am, and always will be, a geek. Yes, I took AP Calc and Bio last year. Of course I can defragment a hard drive. And when the new Star Wars trailer came out, I completely freaked out. However, I can also make a touchdown, squat 250 lbs, and get a girlfriend. And...

Don't apply to a ton of safety schools...