Dialogue with Emerging Engineers
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FEATURE
Dialogue with Emerging Engineers Maya Chiesa, Lehigh University
© ASM International 2020
Maya Chiesa is a Rossin Junior Fellow, Materials Science & Engineering, Lehigh University.
Describe your experiences with metallography and microstructure in your undergraduate and/or graduate studies Sophomore year at Lehigh is the first year that I experienced materials in the lab. That first semester of lab work was all about being exposed to metallographic preparation and examination of microstructures. As a class we worked through every step together. I will never forget our first project, where we did everything from pouring molten metal into a mold, all the way to etching a cut surface and examining its microstructure under a microscope. Learning the essential tools and processes allowed us to mount, grind, polish, and etch samples on our own, as well as interpret microscopic images. That first semester was rigorous, but rewarding, and I learned I loved being in the lab and working with my hands. Once I had been given a solid base, I was able to put those new skills to work every semester after that. I went through a variety of projects, including identifying a “mystery” metal through metallographic processes and mechanical testing, identifying a “mystery” polymer, and reverse engineering a brass key. Being able to problem solve with the help of the tools and technology at Lehigh was a fantastic experience, and I later learned that many of the tools and techniques we use are not too far off from industry. I believe all of my undergraduate experiences with metallography and microstructure will prepare me well for the future, and I know I will never forget them, considering the stacks of lab notebooks and mounted samples I can’t bear to get rid of.
“At Lehigh we refer to materials science and engineering as the college. The degree combines aspects of all disciplines, from mechanical engineering to electrical engineering, and even civil and bioengineering. While we may specialize in materials, MSE students and professionals are also problem solvers and hands on learners. Also, the aspect of failure analysis means we are not afraid to break things!” – Maya Chiesa
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What would you like people to know about materials science that most currently do not know? A lot of people do not realize that materials science and engineering is everywhere. I think it is one of the most diverse fields in both industry and research as it can be applied to anything and everything. Materials science is pertinent to everything, from construction, to electronics, and even hip replacements. It goes well beyond metallography and reaches into every type of engineering. At Lehigh we refer to materials science and engineering as the melting pot of the engineering college. The degree combines aspects of all disciplines, from mechanical engineering to electrical engineering, and even civil and bioengineering. While we may specialize in materials, MSE students and professionals are also problem solvers and hands on lea
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