What is it like living in Lynchburg?
My favorite part of Lynchburg is AREVA NP Inc. Other than that, the parks are nice, the dining is excellent, and it's nice to be in a town of college students (Liberty University and Randolph-Macon Woman's College are located in the direct area).

What drew you to AREVA NP Inc.?
AREVA NP Inc. applies robotics in productive, life-changing scenarios. The work we do matters. It's also a company where results win the show, as opposed to useless chatter and coffee breaks. We enjoy our work.

What does a typical day consist of?
For a design engineer, there really aren't "typical" days. Whether I'm modeling a concept in SolidWorks or making a mechanical drawing, each day brings something new. This is definitely not a routine job.

What has been your biggest challenge?
Design engineers at AREVA NP Inc. are given ownership of projects, and sometimes it's difficult to make decisions between design ideas. Nevertheless, this challenge is mentally stimulating

What does your future at AREVA NP Inc. hold? What are your aspirations?
I have already extended my internship for another four months, and hope to work with AREVA NP Inc. after graduation. Based on my experiences so far, I would definitely be interested in pursuing a career with AREVA NP Inc.
*I am inspired by the words of Ole Kirk Christiansen: "Only the best is good enough." AREVA NP Inc. seems like a place where I can pursue the best.

What was your biggest surprise at AREVA NP Inc.?
AREVA NP Inc. puts a high level of trust and responsibility in interns. When an improperly machined part caused problems in the assembly shop, I consulted another engineer for help. After he gave me his thoughts, he said "It's your tool, it's up to you." Few of my classmates have internship stories like that.

What is the greatest opportunity you've been given as
an AREVA NP Inc. employee?
I have had two incredible opportunities at AREVA NP Inc. First, I've worked with the Transworld System tool (TWS), AREVA NP Inc.'s flagship inspection tool and one of the most advanced and well-known tools in the nuclear industry. Second, I've worked side-by-side with expert mechanical designers, learning from their 25-plus years of experience in the nuclear robotics industry.

What are the dynamics of your group?
Independence and a focus on work, combined with a spirit of fun.