McCann
For chemical engineering senior Jane McCann, becoming an engineer was a way
to unite her interests in chemistry and physics and apply them to real-world
problems. This June, she will speak on behalf of the Class of 2025 at Drexel
Engineering’s undergraduate commencement, offering reflections shaped by
both academic achievement and personal determination.
Originally from Avondale, Pennsylvania, McCann chose Drexel for its
academic rigor, urban setting, and hands-on co-op program. Her time at the
university was marked by a demanding schedule, including long daily commutes
and part-time work during academic terms. Despite the challenges, she
maintained a spot on the Dean’s List every quarter. “That’s one of the
accomplishments I’m most proud of,” she said.
McCann immersed herself in experiential learning opportunities. In the
Science of Brewing course, she helped develop a tea-infused beer, gaining
insight into the chemical engineering principles behind each stage of the
brewing process. Her senior design project focused on creating a lightweight
material capable of removing urea from the bloodstream for use in a wearable
artificial kidney. The project utilized MXene nanoparticles — originally
discovered at Drexel — and involved chemically modifying them for biomedical
application. “It was exciting to work on something that could one day have a
real impact in healthcare,” she said.
Through co-op, McCann not only strengthened her technical skills but also
discovered the importance of clear communication in engineering. “It doesn’t
matter how good your ideas are if you can’t communicate them to others,” she
noted. She’ll carry that lesson with her to Chemours, where she has accepted
a full-time role as a process engineer in the Advanced Performance
Materials division.
McCann also found meaning in the shared experiences of her peers. In the
final weeks leading up to senior design presentations, she recalls the
senior design lounge as a place of collaboration and support. “Everyone was
working on different projects, but there was a sense of camaraderie,” she
said. “People shared ideas, troubleshooting tips, and encouragement. It
felt like the culmination of everything we had worked toward.”
Looking ahead, McCann is eager to step into her career and contribute to
solving the world’s most pressing challenges. “Engineers are problem
solvers,” she said. “I’m excited to be a part of that and to bring my
creativity and values to each challenge I encounter.”