Michael Knight: "I chose Mines because of all the exciting research in renewable energy materials"

Why did you choose to come to Mines? What have you enjoyed most about being here?

I chose Mines because of all the exciting research in renewable energy materials and connection to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

Tell us about something you're working on right now that you find exciting, fulfilling or challenging?

I'm currently writing my first publication and it is fulfilling to share research results and challenging to tell the story in a digestible way.

What communities, groups or organizations—on- and off-campus—are important to you and why?

Mines Veterans Alliance is important for building a student veteran community and raising awareness on campus for veterans' resources.

What are your plans for the future? What's your dream job?

Entrepreneur or staff scientist working in renewable energy materials.

What would you tell someone interested in joining your academic program or Mines in general?

I always tell everyone to consider graduate school in the hard sciences. Everyone has a bachelor's degree, you need to go above and beyond to stand out.

What's your favorite thing to do outside of class and coursework? How do you unwind, manage stress, find fulfillment, etc.?

I enjoy spending time with my kid and riding dirt bikes.

Tell us something about you that most people would be surprised to learn?

I served in the Marine Corps for almost six years. Most people are surprised to learn that I was a Marine and I am getting a PhD.