Hello, my name is Jaiden Burness.  I am from Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, a town located in Chester County.  I am a freshman engineer at the University of Pittsburgh and a member of the Fredrick Honors College.  Starting in my Sophomore year, I plan to major in Civil Engineering and begin a Certificate in Sustainability.  Since I do not have any concrete plans for what to do post-secondary with a CE degree, I intend to spend the next year researching possible applications.

While I am not a member of any clubs around campus, I do have some personal hobbies that keep me busy, including hiking.  Back in High School, I had the opportunity to go on multiple backpacking trips with the Boy Scouts and hike with my family, allowing me to experience the joys of nature.  While I do not have those same experiences available to me on campus, I find Schenley Park to be a great way to enjoy nature.  Back in High School, I was also a member of my school’s First Robotics Challenge (FRC) Team.  During one of my two seasons, we were invited to participate in the FRC World Championship in Houston, which opened my eyes to the excitement and sense of satisfaction that can arise from creating a successful robot.  Due to that experience, I am strongly considering joining one of Pitt’s many robotics-oriented clubs next semester.

When it comes to my upcoming Plus3 trip to the Netherlands, the main reason I chose it was due to its focus on sustainability.  As previously discussed, I have a deep joy and appreciation for nature and the environment, and the best way to protect it is by learning and practicing sustainable initiatives.  From Plus3, I hope not only to learn about the Netherlands and its culture for personal interest and to gain an understanding of other cultures, but also to be informed of the ways sustainability can be incorporated into everyday structures and life.  With a Certificate in Sustainability on the horizon, understanding and knowledge reflecting sustainability will be invaluable when it comes to completing it.  Seeing how businesses and structures incorporate sustainability will also be vital to me as a future Civil Engineer, as it will give me an understanding of its applications within the profession.