Hello, everyone! My name is Nathan Belculfine and I am a first-year engineering student with the intent of studying mechanical engineering. I was born and raised in Pittsburgh and am now attending the school I had always dreamed of. Growing up, I was surrounded by the blue and gold as my father was a football alum in the early 80s. Some of my hobbies consist of playing guitar, playing soccer, working out, fishing, and golfing. Before realizing I wanted to take on engineering, I was set on playing soccer in college as I played competitively for my whole life. It wasn’t until my Junior year in high school that I developed a passion for math, physics, and innovation.

While mechanical engineering possesses a wide range of opportunities, I selected the major due to my interest in the aerospace field. Mechanical engineering offers a solid foundation for the physics involved in aerospace, so I believe I can aim my focus toward this industry with the help of projects and club involvement. This year, I joined SOAR, which is a competitive rocketry club at Pitt that offers beneficial engineering skills to a wide variety of engineers. I joined the propulsion team to gain valuable experience and knowledge in propulsion systems, as we primarily focus on the rocket’s motor and perform calculations through static fire and launch tests. I also plan on taking advantage of the new space systems engineering program to obtain a possible minor or certificate. Through these opportunities, I can use my mechanical engineering knowledge to explore these interests and deepen my expertise in the field.

One of the deciding factors in selecting a Plus3 program was the theme. I chose Plus3 Korea due to the theme of smart systems. Seoul is accomplishing the innovative city style that all cities today are trying to incorporate. This city serves as a valuable representation of a step into the future with its cutting-edge technology. Traveling to Seoul can allow me to experience their shift to a modern-tech powerhouse and see how it is leading their society to a brighter future. Another factor that led me to choose South Korea is the cultural differences in a country that I may never have the chance to visit again. I am so excited to immerse myself in everyday life in Korea to truly see what the nation is all about!