When civil engineering majors Yillian and Tiffany first heard about the Advancing Minorities' Interest in (AMIE) internship program in Germany, the two were unsure about applying, but decided to take a chance. When notified of their acceptance Rivera and Williams wasted no time in contacting Dr. Robin Coger, dean of the College of Engineering, seeking sponsorship to pay for the round-trip airfare. The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers provides housing, but students are responsible for their own travel.

“Dr. Robin Coger, arranged for the funding of Tiffany and my travel arrangements – without the College of Engineering’s sponsorship, we would not have been able to travel overseas.”

The AIME in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assists undergraduate minority students in gaining employment in the field of engineering.

Rivera who is interested in environmental issues says she appreciates the hands-on nature of the rainwater harvesting project she worked on in Germany and getting to see the things she learned in professor Luster-Teasley’s class applied in real life.

“Working in different countries helped me gain a more global perspective and understanding of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and what it takes to be a professional engineer,” said Williams.  “It was an incredible experience, from a cultural and engineering standpoint.” 

“Our German neighbors helped us understand the language and adapt to the culture. There was such a sense of community,” said Rivera.

Rivera and Williams stayed in Mainz, the capital of the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. “On weekends we traveled around Germany and nearby countries including Austria, Belgium, France and the Netherlands.”

“I also learned the importance of networking and professional development after meeting three of our alumni from the College of Engineering who are employed with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Aggie Pride is worldwide!”

Rivera and Williams returned from Germany in August bubbling with excitement about their experience abroad. “Working abroad for the U.S. government helped me realize I really can make a difference in the world,” said Rivera.

Photo: Yillian Rivera and Tiffany Williams at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers construction site in Wiesbaden, Germany.