Each year, the UC Davis College of Engineering celebrates the graduating seniors who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, academic achievement and service both in and out of the classroom. These outstanding Aggie Engineers share their most impactful moments and fondest memories from their time at UC Davis.
The College of Engineering at the University of California, Davis, has selected electrical engineering student Hari Rakul Ambethkar to receive its highest honor for a graduating senior, the M.S. Ghausi Medal. The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering has also identified Ambethkar to receive its Outstanding Senior Award.
At UC Davis, graduating seniors in materials science and engineering spend their final year solving real problems for professional sponsors, emerging with the hands-on skills, mentorship and workplace-ready experience that traditional coursework rarely provides.
Benetta MacAuley didn't know materials science was a major when she applied to UC Davis. Now the senior investigates sustainable cement alternatives and leads the viola section of the Video Game Orchestra, proving that the best paths are often unplanned.
The fourth-year aerospace science and mechanical engineering double major has been selected for the first-ever Solastra Fellowship, which recognizes Latin American student leaders in aerospace.
UC Davis materials science and engineering student Micah Bob studies sustainable cement alternatives to reduce carbon emissions. As graduation approaches, he reflects on the transformative course, research experiences and campus life — including MASC and Video Game Orchestra — that shaped his journey.
UC Davis senior Shreya Chandra has been named to Aviation Week’s 2026 20 Twenties, a global honor recognizing standout STEM students in the aerospace field. The award highlights her achievements in mechanical and aerospace engineering and connects her with industry leaders.
Balancing a demanding engineering course load with leading the UC Davis women’s volleyball team, student-athlete Jade Light has found her rhythm through resilience, teamwork and focus — showing that every set, whether on the court or in class, builds toward a bigger goal.
After a traumatic brain injury, computer science and engineering student Ayush Saha rebuilt his life and launched a mission to solve real-world problems through data, teamwork and code. At UC Davis, he’s flipped setbacks into strength — both in the lab and on the mat.
Two first-generation UC Davis engineers, Rui Ming Yu and Krystle Catamura, are honored for their perseverance, purpose and impact. From mentoring in STEM to championing environmental justice, their journeys show how curiosity and courage can help shape California's future.
