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College of Engineering

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Meet Mechanical Engineering Major Caroline Franchino

On St. Thomas of Villanova Day of Service, Caroline Franchino ’16 ME (standing next to sign, right side) led the volunteer student group at the Footlighters Theater site.
On St. Thomas of Villanova Day of Service, Caroline Franchino ’16 ME (standing next to sign, right side) led the volunteer student group at the Footlighters Theater site.

by Rebecca Watson ’15 CLAS

 

When Caroline Franchino watched her cousin get his pilot’s license, she felt the overwhelming urge to join him in the skies. As part of a “Women in Science” program in high school, Caroline devoted her study to aviation technologies. It was her Advanced Placement Physics teacher, Mr. Chappe, who used Caroline’s passion for flight to encourage her to pursue an engineering degree.

Coming to Villanova University, Caroline focused on mechanical engineering as an entry into the world of aerospace engineering. Now a junior at Villanova, Caroline also pursues Math and Engineering Entrepreneurship minors, and works outside of the classroom to be a well-rounded student and individual. She is one of very few engineering majors working for the campus Writing Center, and she helps tutor fellow engineering students as a PEER. Caroline also has volunteered as an orientation counselor and plays on the University Quidditch team. Over fall break, she will participate in a Habitat for Humanity project in Maryville, Tn.

During this past summer, Caroline interned with Materials Research & Design in Malvern, Pa. where being in a professional setting helped her discover the different ways she can apply her engineering degree. “I came to realize that I prefer to work on the creative side of engineering,” she says. “I enjoy developing the research, reports and presentations, which contribute to the firm’s work, but incorporate interdisciplinary ways of thinking.” Last spring, Caroline was honored as a Boeing Scholar, and she hopes to work with the company in the future as she pursues her professional goals.

An exceptional student, engaged both in the classroom and in the community, Caroline embodies the Villanova work ethic. Her strong academic performance, as well as honors such as the Boeing Scholarship, indicate a dedication to growing in knowledge and wisdom, while her work as a volunteer, team member, and leader in the community demonstrate Caroline’s ongoing commitment to service. “I truly feel like I know the best of the best at Villanova,” she says, and “I hope I can contribute to that atmosphere of excellence.”