Justin Merriwether

My name is Justin Merriwether, and I am in my 4th year studying Mechanical Engineering. I am delighted to serve my first year as a Tickle College of Engineering Ambassador at Rocky Top. My hometown is Houston, Texas, and I grew up abroad in Saudi Arabia until my teenage years. 

 

Now I know what you may be thinking— "You grew up where, and you LEFT Texas to come to Rocky Top"? Well, I came here after I did the Summer Engineering Advancement Program before starting my Freshman year. The Pre-college programs were truly the start of my engineering story. I was uneasy about whether I would stay, but I made friendships and experiences here that I still greatly cherish. Completing the SEA Program gave me the tools I didn't know I needed to succeed in Engineering. Most of my friends I've met at other schools do not have the opportunity, nor the privilege, of having these programs that the Office of Diversity Programs currently hosts.

 

At UT, I have achieved significant success in my four years. I began serving as the communications chair with the National Society of Black Engineers at The University of Tennessee-Knoxville. Despite the pandemic's troubles, I was referred to the Regional Executive Board the following year as the 2021-2022 Public Relations Chairperson. Aside from being an Ambassador, I currently serve as the 2022-2023 Vice-Chairperson of Region 3, The Pow3rhouse Region, consisting of 6 states (Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, & Tennessee). 

 

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I hope to see you soon on Rocky Top and if you ever have any questions, feel free to reach out to me at the address above!!!