Will Goldberg

Are you performing any research in a lab?
Yes, in the lab of Dr. Marcus Foston studying cellulose nanocrystal applications.

Why did you pick WashU?
I chose WashU because of its incredible capability as a research institution in combination with its relatively small enrollment size. These two qualities make it an ideal place to access high level research opportunities as an undergraduate.

What was your favorite course and why?
My favorite course thus far was MEMS 3110: Machine Elements. I loved this class because it was highly application-based learning. We used a variety of strategies from our previous courses to inform design decisions, and it was really cool to see all of this prior knowledge coming together.

Who is your favorite instructor and why?
Guy Genin is my favorite instructor because he is an incredibly personable professor who is happy to meet and interact with students directly, which is especially remarkable for a professor of his caliber. His enthusiasm makes his classes a pleasure to participate in.

What advice would you give to a new student?
My advice to a new student would be to be very deliberate about taking advantage of any of the opportunities there are at WashU. There are so many types of student groups and career development opportunities that it can sometimes be overwhelming or intimidating to get started with anyone. So, don't worry so much about making sure it's perfect or that you're totally prepared; you're a WashU student, you'll figure it out! College (and life) is a learning process, but you need experiences to learn.

What is your favorite thing about St. Louis?
My favorite thing about St. Louis is the local live music scene. I play some music myself and love nothing more than a night out seeing a show. I was thrilled to discover lots of cool venues for seeing all types of artists.

What campus activities or groups would you recommend to a new student?
Personally, I've had great experiences playing on the Club Soccer team, playing in a jazz combo, volunteering with the campus YMCA as a soccer coach and participating in Greek Life at WashU. Those are the ones I would first recommend, but really it just comes down to pursuing what you love to do. You'll find new friends through those shared interests.

Are you presently in the workforce or have any work history?
I was employed by Dr. Foston's lab during the 2020-2021 school year and continued to work there over the summer through a stipend from the WashU Summer Undergraduate Research Award. In the past I've worked as a camp counselor and soccer coach for various programs around Boston.

Are there any not-for-profit agencies that you have volunteered or worked with?
I volunteered for the Campus YMCA at WashU as a soccer coach for a few seasons.

What are your plans for the future?
I hope to pursue a master's degree after graduating WashU, although I am still in the process of deciding what concentration I would like that to be in. I hope to continue on to develop green technologies as an entrepreneur down the road, but we'll see what happens!