Student Spotlight: Isaac Stallbaumer

Isaac Stallbaumer
Meet Isaac Stallbaumer, a senior mechanical engineering student from Onconto, Nebraska.
July 26, 2021

Hometown: Oconto, Nebraska

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Anticipated Date of Graduation: May 2022

Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

When I was deciding where to go to college, I wanted to study engineering but also thought I might pursue horticulture if I decided engineering wasn't a good fit. I chose to attend the University of Nebraska-Lincoln because of its engineering program and the activities on East Campus that would allow me to remain involved in agriculture. I looked at a few out of state schools and UNO. UNL was the one that worked the best financially.  

What is your favorite thing about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?

My favorite thing about the university is that it feels like the biggest small town. Walking into class on the first day of each semester, I already know many of my classmates and after four semesters I have put together quite a network of friends.  

How has diversity and inclusive excellence played a role in your CASNR experience?

The students in many of my classes come from different states or countries. Learning and working with this diversity on different projects has opened my eyes to many different ways of viewing tasks I would not have seen otherwise.  

What is your favorite class you have taken so far and why?

My favorite pair of classes so far has been the thermodynamics series. I enjoyed them because the professor, Kevin Cole, did a great job of explaining the topics and using examples to show the techniques' usages. I decided to study mechanical engineering because I thought the transfer of energy from chemical to mechanical in engines was fascinating. In those classes, we went from learning about steam turbines, to refrigerators and heat pumps, to internal combustion engines and jet engines.  

What are your plans post-graduation?

The more time I spend away from the farm, the more I would like to return after graduation. Upon receiving my degree, I would like to design and manufacture farm equipment for a few years and then maybe take over my family's operation in central Nebraska.  

What’s life like outside of school?

Outside of my classes, I am a part of the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council and the Fellowship of Catholic University Students. Being a member of Farmhouse and the responsibility of serving on its executive team has pushed me to sacrifice my time for the benefit of others. When I go home, I enjoy tending my garden and building furniture in my woodshop, but in Lincoln, I spend my free time riding my bike and playing guitar. 

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