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Carolina Pelaez

Voted Most Likely To:
Visit the Most Countries in a Lifetime

Graduated:
Stevens Institute of Technology, Class of 2015

Currently Working As:
Professional Development Program Engineer, BASF

What do you love about your job?
I love the versatility of my Chemical Engineering degree and the different career options it has opened up to me. In my short time with BASF, I have already had four different roles, exposing me to various businesses and technologies within the company. It's exciting to think about the endless possibilities my career still has in store!

What has been the most exciting part of your career so far?
So far, the most exciting part of my career has been traveling across North America to various BASF sites to train Project Managers on a new reporting tool. I have been a key user for the tool since its inception, and it's been very exciting to have such a direct impact on the global rollout.

What would you tell yourself at age 18?
I would tell my 18-year-old self to not try to find the perfect time for everything. I'd say that if she wants to learn a new skill, or take a certain trip, or learn a new language , or whatever it may be, to JUST DO IT! There is never a "right time" and in fact life seems to get busier as we grow older, so college is probably the best time to take on something new.

How has ACS Scholars impacted your life and career?
ACS Scholars has impacted my life in countless ways. Aside from the generous financial support, I received on-campus faculty support, and career development support, which has quite literally led me to where I am today. BASF sponsored my Scholars Scholarship, and assigned a BASF professional as a mentor to me. This individual exposed me to the company, and helped me see where I would fit in at BASF, which is the company I'm currently very happily employed at.