Grace Long '21 is a nuclear engineering major and Brown Scholar from Virginia.
Why did you choose to study nuclear engineering?
I found my passion for engineering in my high school chemistry class, where I learned that nuclear technology is vital to the United States and its energy use. It is important to me to remove the stigma from the word ‘nuclear’ so that we can pave the way toward a positive perception of nuclear energy.
When applying for colleges, I looked for universities with strong engineering programs. At the time, I was also interested in joining the Navy, so Texas A&M stood out to me because of its top-ranked nuclear engineering, Corps of Cadets and ROTC programs. Once I realized that I received the Brown Scholarship, it was even more attractive.
How has the Brown Scholars program impacted you?
The program has been invaluable! I couldn’t attend Texas A&M without the financial support and guidance from the Brown Foundation . As a Brown Scholar, I represent not only myself, but the Brown Foundation, the other scholars and Craig Brown ’75. Being a Brown Scholar has taught me to perform to the best of my abilities in all areas of my life, not just in academics, and to pursue all opportunities regardless of what might happen. Our community of scholars supports each other and tries to inspire everyone to make a difference both on and off campus. I’m involved in campus research and an on-campus ministry as well as the Texas A&M National Scholar Ambassadors.