For this graduating senior, Minnesota is where engineering meets French studies

Q&A with Sophia Konzen 

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (05/13/2026) — So, how do you pursue a rigorous engineering degree and study abroad — not once, not twice, but three times? Just ask University of Minnesota College of Science and Engineering senior Sophia Konzen.

The mechanical engineering and French studies double major credits the University of Minnesota’s advising network and cross-campus collaborations for making it possible for her to smoothly tie her engineering education with foreign language studies and study abroad opportunities.

“I want to express my appreciation to the staff and faculty who put in the work across departments that makes a dual degree achievable at the University of Minnesota,” Konzen said. “Having a Big 10 education has also been meaningful, allowing me to connect with other schools through study abroad partnerships.”

Konzen, who hails from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, has broadened her learning in Ireland, Senegal, and France. 

“I think that studying abroad translates to a skill in adaptability under stress and fast-paced environments,” she said.

As to why major in mechanical engineering, she replied: “It is a very versatile degree, and I love it for that reason!”

Konzen is a recipient of the Gopher State Scholarship and a Study Abroad Scholarship. She was the 2025-26 director of engineering for the University of Minnesota Robotics, a student worker in the Anderson Innovation Labs and a member of the Society of Women Engineers and She is ME student organization. 

Read more about her college experience in the Q+A below.

Why did you choose the University of Minnesota?

I was drawn to the University of Minnesota’s range of programs that gave me the flexibility to find a degree that was right for me. The large campus and its reputation for academic achievement felt reassuring — that I would find a space to grow both personally and in my studies. Additionally, the Twin Cities campus environment is a perfect blend of outdoor spaces and ways to enjoy all four seasons, while being situated in an urban hub that helps students connect with industry.

How did you pick your major? 

I have always been passionate about the medical field, as it runs in my family — but I was unsure whether I wanted to go through medical school. It was really my brother-in-law, an electrical engineer, who presented engineering as an option to make a meaningful impact in my target field. His advice led me to major in mechanical engineering. It’s a major that has a wide range of applications that I could pivot from, depending on if my interests changed. 

Tell us about any internship experiences.

I got my internship through a connection in the University of Minnesota Robotics Club! Student clubs are a great source not only to improve technical skills but also get general advice and feedback. A teammate told me that the place he previously worked at was looking for another intern. He put a good word in for me — and my internship at a medical device startup clicked into place. I really valued experiencing the startup culture and absorbing advice from people with 20+ years of industry. 

Going back, I wish I had been braver and applied to internships in my freshman and sophomore years. I think getting a feel for different company types and sizes is something that could be really useful in considering a career path.

How has your time at CSE helped you prepare for your career and beyond? 

The faculty and advisors in the College of Science and Engineering have been incredible resources. Also, there are always a variety of college events on a range of topics — from resume-proofing questions to designing a circuit — that are accessible and approachable for students.

Out of all your college experiences, what are you most proud of?

My study abroad experiences — yes plural! My first study abroad was the “Big 10 Physics 2” in Ireland summer session going into my sophomore year. I also spent winter break in Senegal to study French and one academic year at a technical university in France through the Global E3 Exchange. That year really allowed me to integrate both of my degrees simultaneously — as I took engineering classes in my second language alongside native students.

What are your plans after graduation? 

I will be pursuing a master’s degree in healthcare technology at École de technologie supérieure in Montreal, Canada. I am looking forward to continuing the work of both of my degrees.

What advice would you give to CSE students?

Joining student clubs or creating a discord thread is a huge step in helping you make friends and find study groups before getting into your major-specific classes. Consider taking math classes in the summer to space them out — and, study abroad is much more accessible for science and engineering students than you might think. I think the summer between your freshman and sophomore year, and your sophomore year, is the best time to go.

Watch Sophia's Learn Abroad video highlights on CSE YouTube Shorts. 

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Story by Pauline Oo