Starting a student organization can be an overwhelming challenge, but for Gregory, the founder of the Association of Professional Engineers Club at Michigan State University (MSU), it was a mission-driven by purpose. In his sophomore year, Gregory recognized a gap in his community—students passionate about their careers, but lacking the opportunities to showcase their skills and experience to future employers. He set out to change that.
The Beginning
Starting the club wasn't easy. "It all starts with the team," Gregory reflects. "When you're just beginning, there are a lot of hurdles—convincing faculty to approve your club, securing sponsors, and getting people on board with a new idea. A lot of people are comfortable in their existing groups, so getting them to take a chance on something new can be tough." But despite the challenges, Gregory and his co-founder pushed through. "It's not something you can do alone. You have to take that leap of faith."
The Problem He Wanted to Solve
For Gregory, the root of the problem was clear: how to stand out in an ultra-competitive job market, especially in a field like aerospace. "It’s a numbers game. There are thousands of people competing for the same positions," Gregory explains. "I wanted to create a space where students could gain more experience and build their profiles in ways that would make them more appealing to employers." His club was designed to do just that—provide engineering students with opportunities to build skills, gain hands-on experience, and connect with like-minded individuals who were equally determined to succeed.
Building the Leadership Team
Creating a solid leadership team was key. "Passion is everything," Gregory shares. "You can find people who are good at things you can’t do, but if they’re not passionate, it doesn’t work." That passion was the foundation of his club. As they built their leadership team, Gregory found that their shared enthusiasm and commitment became contagious, drawing others in. "It’s a journey, and you’re going to hear “no” a lot. But if you find that group of people who believe in the mission, you’ll grow together."
Gregory’s leadership style is also unique. "I don’t like titles," he says. "It’s about the work you do and the expertise you bring." He and his co-founder are hands-on, but they rely heavily on their team’s expertise, bringing in leads for marketing, engineering, and coding. These leads are entrusted with responsibilities based on their strengths, creating a collaborative environment where everyone plays a crucial role.
Engagement and Building a Community
One of the biggest challenges of running a student organization is maintaining engagement. "We haven’t done as many events as we wanted yet, mainly because we want to make sure everything is done well," Gregory says. "We’re perfectionists." Despite the slow start, Gregory emphasizes the importance of creating value. "People have to see what they’re getting out of it—whether that’s community, professional skills, or just having fun."
Food is one way Gregory keeps members engaged. "Students follow the food," he jokes. "It’s one of those things you learn quickly." But more than just food, it’s about making people feel valued. "Whether it’s a high five or a small milestone, it’s important to show appreciation for those who show up," Gregory adds.
Looking to the Future
As a founder, Gregory’s vision for the future is centered around one thing: helping students put their best foot forward. "I want to make it easier for students to succeed and showcase their full selves—whether that’s through creating more networking opportunities or just helping them find the resources they need," he says. "It’s about showing them that they don’t have to do everything on their own." When asked about the future of STEM communities, Gregory believes virtual engagement will become increasingly important, but emphasizes that in-person connection is irreplaceable. "It’s just different when you're in the room with people. You can feel the energy," he notes. "But virtual spaces can still offer valuable opportunities, especially when we get more technical with our clubs."
Gregory's approach to leadership and community-building at MSU is a testament to the power of passion, persistence, and the willingness to create something meaningful. As he continues to grow his club and inspire those around him, his story serves as a reminder that the best leaders don’t wait for opportunities—they make them.
