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FABE

Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering

CFAES

Senior Spotlight: Q & A with Emily Leninsky

Feb. 19, 2025

While majoring in engineering can be academically rigorous, so many of our incredible students in the Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering (FABE) find ways to get involved outside the classroom.  

We sat down with Biolgoical engineering major Emily Leninsky to learn about her experience in the program and how she balances a busy schedule.

  1. Where are you from and what is your major and class year?

I am from Woodlawn, Tennessee. My major is in biological engineering and I have two minors (military science and history). I will be graduating May 2025 (5th Year-Senior).

  1. What interested you in your current major, and how did you find FABE?

Growing up, I enjoyed math and science classes, particularly biology and biological technologies. I had some fantastic math and science teachers in high school who introduced me to the possibilities of biological engineering.

I originally started college in the biomedical engineering department but quickly switched majors as the FABE ideals best fit what I was looking for in my studies.

  1. What do you like about our department/your major?

Department-wise, I think FABE is such a great community of individuals (students and teachers) alike who are willing to help you succeed and strive to create solutions to real-world problems. Everyone is passionate about their interests and projects while being super supportive of their peers.

Like the other FABE majors, I enjoy how well-rounded the department strives to make our education. All FABE students take core classes together, then split into their specialties and interests. This allows us to understand engineering concepts around the board and get new perspectives on specialties other than our own. I have gained many skills to put in my “toolbox” and new passions that I would like to pursue upon graduation.

  1. Are there any clubs, organizations, or extracurricular activities you are involved in?

I was part of the Humanitarian Engineering Scholars program, am currently part of Towers Agricultural Honorary, the University Band, and have been in Army ROTC for 5 years! 

  1. Have you worked on any projects, research, or internships that you’re particularly proud of?

Coming from a military background, I enjoyed my capstone project as it aimed to create a microbial fermentation food system to help relieve the stress on food supply chains in military operations, humanitarian relief efforts, and future prospects in low gravity. The research and findings of this project aided in the proposal for the next project I was a part of: a Portable Unit Field Fermentation System through the company BioMADE.

I currently work for 3 Bar Biologics as a production intern, where I get to see biological engineering and microbiology principles come to life!

  1. Is there a course or professor/lecturer in FABE that has stood out to you?

Dr. Mike Rowan has stood out to me in FABE. When I switched to the department, his biological engineering class made me realize I was in the right place. All of his courses have been extremely engaging and thought-provoking. He is passionate about teaching and giving his students the most hands-on experiences he can! Because of his passion and dedication to introducing the most current information and problems to be solved, I would love to get a Master’s degree in Biomimicry!

  1. What advice would you have for underclassmen in your discipline?

 If I had to give underclassmen advice in this discipline, I would tell them not to fear failure. The FABE department is filled with lecturers/professors, graduate students, and other peers who are more than willing to help you understand the content and help answer any and all questions (class related or not). Do not be afraid to reach out and make friends, after all, you will all be in the same core classes and can have each other’s back.  

  1. What are your plans for after graduation?

Compared to my peers in the department, I feel like I am taking an untraditional route. Upon graduation in May, I will be commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Army as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal candidate. I will be going to the Ordnance (Logistics) Basic Officer Leader Course and then to Explosive Ordnance Disposal school! I would love to eventually get a Master's Degree, but for now, we will see where the Army takes me!

  1. Do you feel like this department has prepared you for post-grad? How so?

I do believe this department has prepared me for post-graduation. While engineering degrees are known to be rigorous, I think that I have become a mentally stronger individual because of it. The study and people skills will significantly help me in my future training in the military. I have become a better problem solver and have developed confidence to ask for help when needed and to learn from failure.