Megan Dahl

Research + Classes + Family =

Materials Science Degree

The light at the end of the tunnel is nearing.  After untold weekends of studying and Friday nights spent on assignments instead of out with friends, Megan Dahl (Reynolds) is graduating in December with her master’s degree in material science engineering.

Dahl came to WSU as an undergraduate and quickly became involved in research with Professors David Bahr and M.Grant Norton on characterizing the growth mechanisms of silicon granules and their use in solar panels.  Not one to leave a project unfinished, Dahl decided to continue her schooling with a master’s degree to see the research through. 

The research, which aims to make solar panels more effective and less expensive, fits well into Dahl’s research interests as it effectively blends alternative energy research with a newer area of study.  Once she leaves campus for the Seattle area, Dahl hopes to continue working in an exciting research environment where she can continue to set her sights upon new and innovative research. 

“I would love to work in research and development for a fun and interesting company like NASA someday,” she said. 

In addition to excellent research opportunities, Dahl credits her success at WSU in part to the education she received.  “There are professors like Dr. (David) Field who make the information applicable to real life and he really wants students to love the material because he loves it,” she said.  “And there are classes like mechanics of solids, with Dr. (Stephen) Antolovich, where it’s really hard, but when you finally get it, you feel so good about it!”

Dahl also credits her family with her academic success, recalling when her mother went back to school and worked full-time to ensure a better future for their family.  “My parents worked really hard to make sure my sister and I had the opportunity to go to college – and it worked – my sister is now a freshman majoring in criminal justice!” she said. 

As one of a very few number of women receiving a degree in materials science, Dahl says the experience is truly rewarding if you are willing to work for it.  And for the young women out there considering a career in materials science? “Don’t let the stereotype of a brainy guy scare you – they’re just as intimidated are you are!”  She said.  “And, in this line of research, you get to see something new that will make s difference in people’s lives – this research is really rewarding.”