Meet Our 2025 CEA Awards and Recognition Ceremony Student Speaker Eric Scandrett

Our Spring 2025 CEA Awards and Recognition Ceremony will feature an outstanding College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) graduate selected from a group of candidates who submitted entries based on a set of criteria. 

Presenting this year is Eric Scandrett (BSME ‘25), who in his own words shared that graduating from Howard University with his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering is a moment he will cherish forever—a milestone that represents not only years of hard work, but also a journey filled with growth, discovery, and unforgettable experiences.

Through a set of broad interview questions, Scandrett gave us a brief account of his unique Howard University experience. 

 

What brought you to Howard? Why did you choose Howard?

Graduating from Howard University with my bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering is a moment I will cherish forever—a milestone that represents not only years of hard work, but also a journey filled with growth, discovery, and unforgettable experiences. My path to Howard began long before college—back in eighth grade when I visited Washington, D.C. on a school trip. The city’s energy, reminiscent of my hometown of Atlanta, immediately resonated with me. Although I didn’t get the chance to tour Howard’s campus due to heavy rain, I already knew of the powerful legacy of leaders who came before me. I was inspired to follow in their footsteps and leave an impact greater than myself.

 

What sparked your interest in engineering in general and specifically in mechanical engineering?

My interest in engineering was sparked early on through STEM programs and working on hands-on projects with my father and brothers. Whether building things around the house or repairing cars, I was drawn to the creativity and problem-solving involved.

Mechanical engineering became focus because of its flexibility—it gave me tools to explore many paths while keeping my options open for future endeavors. In school, I always found myself gravitating toward math and science competitions like Challenge 24 and Quizbowl, and I took part in coding prep courses and dual-enrollment classes that exposed me early to the rigor of college-level work.

 

What extracurriculars have you been involved in at Howard and pre-Howard?

Throughout my time at Howard, I immersed myself in the campus community through organizations such as Collegiate 100, Models of the Mecca, the National Society of Black Engineers, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and the Howard University Royal Court. Each involvement enriched my experience and sharpened my leadership skills. One of the most memorable moments of my college journey was taking my first airplane trip with a friend to Michigan. That trip not only helped me overcome a fear of flying, but also kicked off a series of amazing travel experiences to places like Oregon, Minnesota, Louisiana, and Denver for conferences and events.

 

What keeps you motivated?

What has kept me going is the deep understanding of how powerful earning this degree is—for me and for my family. As the second college graduate among my siblings, I know this accomplishment means a lot to my parents, who didn’t have the opportunity to complete college. I’m also incredibly grateful for the mentors, friends, and role models who have supported me every step of the way.

 

How does it feel to be graduating?

Graduating feels surreal. I’ve watched class after class walk the stage and share their stories, and now it’s finally my turn. Now, I understand what exactly they were talking about and I’m truly excited and truly blessed to say that I am graduating. Also, being the second college graduate (from my siblings) for my parents, who didn’t have the opportunity to attend or graduate with a degree, is a blessing in itself.

 

What's next for you?

I’m proud, humbled, and excited to step into the next chapter. I’ll be joining Northrop Grumman’s Pathways Rotation Program as an Associate Mechanical Engineer, while also pursuing my master’s in mechanical engineering with the long-term goal of attending law school to earn my JD in intellectual property.

 

What advice would you give to your peers (lowerclassmen)?

To my fellow Bison and the students coming behind me, I offer this: it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. Life will unfold in its own time. Enjoy the small moments, embrace the challenges, and take every opportunity to grow. The path might twist and turn, but trust that every step is preparing you for something great.