Eden Schlink ’25’s journey into the world of engineering began in the most unexpected of places: the garage of her childhood home. That’s where she spent a great deal of her childhood assisting her father—lead tankerman and self-proclaimed "figure-it-out" man—and learning the intricacies of fixing cars, building makeshift projects and problem-solving.
After fostering her love for engineering in high school, Schlink’s quest for an engineering education took her to the Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, where she was one of the only females in her department. She earned an associate degree in instrumentation and control, followed by one in electronics. She was still hungry to learn more and began researching degrees in electronic engineering near her home in Houston, Texas, leading Schlink to discover the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at Houston Community College-Spring Branch (HCC).
“I don’t feel like I chose the Engineering Academies,” Schlink said. “It was just a happy accident I found them—the odds of mustering up the courage to take charge of my life and then connecting with someone eager to share information about the Engineering Academies felt like a blessing from God.”
As the first engineering transition program in the U.S., the Texas A&M Engineering Academy program is a unique opportunity for engineering students. Students are co-enrolled with Texas A&M and one of 10 partner community colleges. They take mathematics, science and core curriculum courses through the community college while taking engineering courses from Texas A&M faculty on the community college campus. After one or two years, students transition to Texas A&M to complete their bachelor's degrees. Unlike traditional transfer programs, students are Texas A&M University College of Engineering students from day one.
"It seemed too good to be true: the application was free, I could save money, enjoy smaller class sizes and learn from industry professors affiliated with Texas A&M—there was no downside to the program," Schlink said.
Schlink hesitated to apply, thinking she wouldn’t be accepted. Nevertheless, after reflecting on her past role models and her father's sage wisdom, she decided to pursue the opportunity.
"I remembered my past professors and technicians and repeated what my dad always told me: ‘It only takes one 'yes' to change your life’—so I poured my heart out into the application and waited," Schlink said. "Then, one day, I received a letter from Texas A&M congratulating me on becoming an Aggie."
After joining the Texas A&M Engineering Academy program, Schlink was blown away by the amount of money that she and her family saved. By lessening the financial burden of pursuing an engineering degree, Schlink was able to pursue her dreams.
While at the Engineering Academy at HCC, Associate Professor of Practice Bjorn Bangstein appointed her as the recipient of an excellence award and provided her the opportunity to be an Engineering Academies Ambassador. It was this recognition that led Schlink to become a student assistant for the Engineering Academy program and the president of both the Texas A&M Engineering Academies Student Organization (TEASO) and the Association of Engineering Academies Ambassadors after she transitioned to College Station.
"I am passionate about giving students, especially those who often go unnoticed, a chance to shine and realize their true potential. Sometimes, all it takes is for one person to recognize their abilities so that they can blossom into future innovators," Schlink said.
Schlink’s journey was not only shaped by her determination but also deeply influenced by her family’s support and values. Inspired by her father’s encouragement and unwavering work ethic, she embraced every opportunity to follow in her father’s footsteps.
“My dad worked tirelessly to provide for us,” Schlink said. “Knowing the sacrifices he made, I vowed to return the favor and avoid the struggles my parents faced.”
This vow, along with her family’s support, led Schlink to an internship with Hatch, a global engineering and development consultant, where she worked as an automation, control and electrical engineering intern, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in electronic design and problem-solving.
Eden's sights are now set on a future where she can innovate and inspire others. Over the summer of 2024, Schlink applied to the Fast Track program in the hopes of earning a master's in engineering technology and working in the defense or space industries.
Schlink credits a great deal of her success to the Engineering Academies, as they have encouraged her to see a future that she never dreamed would be possible.
“I want to recognize all the staff, program specialists and advisors of the Engineering Academies for their incredible efforts. I, and so many other students, are deeply grateful!” Schlink said.
As Schlink continues to pursue her dreams for the future, she encourages students to never give up and to believe in themselves.
“There will be times that you don't believe in yourself or feel insecure about your abilities, but if you are determined to prove everyone else wrong you will succeed,” Schlink said. “I won’t say it is easy, but life will continue to throw hurdles your way and it's up to you to change, deal with, or use them to your advantage. I had to make the calls, the emails, and the appointments to get where I am now. Trust me, if you start investigating, you will get answers!”