Meet Riley Beckham ’25, an OUR Peer Research Ambassador majoring in Electrical Engineering.
What is the focus of your research?
The primary focus of my research has been on developing methods to improve the resilience of modern power grids. Specifically, we looked at various administrative strategies that could be employed to reduce damage to an electrical grid during a high-intensity climate event.
Why did you get involved in research/creative activity?
I was interested in gaining some much needed practical experience to provide context for the material I was learning in my classes. So much of engineering is taught in the abstract, and as someone who prefers hands-on learning, I was really struggling to find understanding and purpose in my degree. Turning to research not only helped me to better understand electrical engineering, but it also gave me a much-needed confidence boost. For the first time at UConn, I felt like I belonged and that this really was the right career path for me.
What advice would you give to aspiring student researchers?
I would say don’t be afraid to fail. Making mistakes is the one of the best ways we can learn, and it’s important to accept failures and setbacks as a necessary part of growth. If you find the right advisor and surround yourself with the right group of people, you’ll find that some of the most important lessons and moments of growth come right after you make a mistake. So trust yourself and your instincts, and always get up off the mat. The most important step is always the one you take next.
What is your greatest accomplishment so far?
So far, I would say being chosen to present the findings of my research team at an international conference of electrical engineers was pretty amazing. It served as the culmination of my research journey and served as a wonderful learning and celebratory experience. It was amazing to see what everyone else was working on and being able to stand amongst my peers and present something I had worked so hard on was really awesome.
What are your plans after graduation? How has involvement in research influenced your plans and prepared you for the future?
I plan to work for a few years in industry after graduation, though I certainly hope to be able to return to school one day to get my master’s degree in electrical engineering. My time as a researcher has not only given me the opportunity to meet wonderful mentors and make important personal connections, but it has also furnished me with the confidence and skills I’ll need to continue to learn and grow throughout the course of my career. I am immensely grateful for all the amazing research opportunities I’ve been afforded at UConn, and I hope to be able to give back to the this wonderful research community in any way I can.
Click here for more information on Riley and other OUR Peer Research Ambassadors.