BIIG DOGS End the Semester with Creativity and Community

BIIG DOGS End the Semester with Creativity and Community

BIIG DOGS celebrated the end of another successful semester with a spirited gingerbread house-building competition. The program, created and led each week by Dean Andrew Williams, is a cornerstone of the first-year engineering experience.

Through BIIG DOGS, first-year engineering students gain hands-on learning opportunities and academic support designed to set them up for success in their chosen majors. Each weekly session introduces different facets of engineering while showcasing the many resources available to help students thrive.

BIIG DOGS is more than academics—it’s about connection and creativity. Students bond with classmates, meet mentors, including BIIG DOGS ambassadors and Bryan MacGavin, Ph.D., the BIIG DOGS coach, and participate in team-building games and design challenges that spark curiosity. Ever tried building a weight-bearing tower using only dry spaghetti and tape? They have.

The program also features guest speakers from across campus and industry, offering real-world insights into life as an engineer.

The program will continue this spring, offering first-year engineers opportunities for hands-on learning, mentorship and connection.

First-year engineering students engaged in an end-of-the-year gingerbread building contest.

First-year engineering students engaged in an end-of-the-year gingerbread building contest.