Written By: Jack Robertson

Today, we had the opportunity to explore several student-run organizations at the Bilbao School of Engineering. From building high-speed race cars to working on ambitious rocketry projects, seeing these highly technical groups was truly inspiring. Among these, one group stood out to me in particular, which was the school’s guitar-building club, Guitar STREAM.

Guitar STREAM

Growing up, I played several instruments, including the piano, drums, and xylophone. However, during college, I haven’t had many opportunities to incorporate my passion for music into my academic life.

That’s why learning about Guitar STREAM was especially meaningful to me. This student-run organization is dedicated to designing and building fully functional electric guitars from scratch. While several faculty member make sure projects are running smoothly, the group is primarily ran by around 20 students who meet regularly each week. During these meetings, members use a combination of 3D modeling software, custom-built machinery, and sustainable materials to create these guitars.

While many members come from an electrical engineering background, the club also attracts students who simply want to reconnect with their love for music through these creative and hands-on projects.

Takeaways

Seeing this organization showed me how I can meaningfully integrate my hobbies into both my personal life and professional career. While the club’s main goal is enjoyment, the students involved are also gaining valuable engineering experience. They’re not only learning how to build a guitar from the ground up, but also how to apply principles of physics, use 3D modeling software, and work with renewable materials to create a functioning instrument.

I’m inspired to continue exploring hobbies that incorporate engineering skills, just like this club does. Today’s experience made me realize that hands-on projects like these can be some of the most effective and engaging ways to develop real-world engineering abilities.

Groups like Guitar STREAM remind me that learning doesn’t always have to happen in a classroom. Sometimes, the best lessons come from simply doing what you love.