Brooke Brenden - She/her
Pursuing a Bachelor of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering
Anticipated graduation date: Spring 2027 (originally 2026, but Brooke is taking a 15 month SAPPI co-op!)
Where are you from? Describe what your hometown and/or family is like?
I was born and raised in Bismarck North Dakota. I grew up with my parents, younger brother, and younger sister
Why did you choose this major?
In high school, I loved science and math and was passionate about sustainability, which made engineering a natural choice for me. As I explored different schools and majors, I was particularly drawn to Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering because of its focus on sustainable solutions and use of bio-based materials in engineering.
What has been a favorite course, project, or experience in the SSM program so far?
My favorite class has been biomass chemistry and conversion. I loved learning about an interesting facet of chemistry, especially one that has applied to an industry I worked in. Another experience I have enjoyed in the program was attending the TAPPI Student Summit both this year and last year. It was an incredible networking and learning experience. I gained valuable insights into various topics related to the pulp and paper industry and I was able to connect with other students and industry professionals.
What student groups or extracurricular activities are you involved in and why?
Since my first year, I have been a member of the Food and Bioproducts Engineering Organization (FaBEO), which has given me an incredible opportunity to connect with students and faculty in the program. This year, I served as a project lead for the group, and I have truly enjoyed being a part of the leadership team. FaBEO provides an amazing opportunity for students to get involved, build connections, and expand their knowledge, and it has been incredibly rewarding to contribute to that experience.
What are your career goals after graduation?
This past summer, I completed an internship at Graphic Packaging International, a pulp and paper company, where I gained valuable experience working in a large-scale manufacturing environment. I loved the fast-paced setting and the opportunity to contribute to the industry, which helped me discover my passion for pursuing a career as a process engineer after graduation. In order to further build my skills, I have decided to take a co-op with SAPPI. I am excited to continue learning, growing, and gaining hands-on experience in the pulp and paper industry.