Second Lieutenant Briona Carswell is set to make history as she prepares to return to active duty, marking a significant milestone as the first FAMU graduate from the Materials Science and Engineering Program at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. Her journey is a testament to her dedication to both military service and environmental innovation.
Carswell's decision to pursue graduate studies at FAMU was deeply rooted in both family tradition and her professional aspirations. "FAMU's stellar reputation in engineering, especially in materials science, made it the perfect fit for my aspirations as a developmental engineer in the Air Force," she explained. Her academic journey has been marked by groundbreaking research on the solidification and crystallization of biodegradable polyesters, under the mentorship of Professor Rufina Alamo, Ph.D., Simon Ostrach Professor of Engineering & Distinguished Research Professor of Chemical & Biomedical Engineering at the joint college.
Carswell's research focuses on addressing the environmental challenges posed by non-biodegradable plastics. "We're investigating polyethylene-like materials that can degrade through a circular economy," she said. "Understanding material behavior under various heating and cooling conditions is crucial for developing sustainable options to combat global pollution."
Professor Alamo praised Carswell's contributions, stating, "Not only does Briona’s graduation mark the beginning of a new cohort of graduate students in materials science engineering at FAMU, but her excellent working habits and determination to complete her degree in record time make her a role model for graduate students at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. She studied the properties of blends of sustainable polymers, those that we may find in our recycle bins in the near future."
Carswell's path to engineering excellence began at the U.S. Air Force Academy, where she balanced academic excellence with Division I athletics. As the first in her family to attend a military service academy, she laid the foundation for her current success. "The six-week basic cadet training really set the tone for my next four years, which were filled with academic rigor and military training," she said. Majoring in chemistry, she pursued courses in aeronautical engineering and philosophy, developing valuable leadership skills as a diversity and inclusion officer and Director of Operations for her squadron, managing a team of 100 cadets.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Carswell excelled in gymnastics, serving on the U.S. Air Force Academy gymnastics team from 2020 to 2023. She earned All-American status on the beam, was selected to the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation First Team, and maintained a 3.4 GPA. Her performance earned her recognition on three consecutive All-Scholastic Team USAG selections.
"My experience on the Air Force Academy gymnastics team taught me invaluable lessons about discipline and perseverance," Carswell said. "From gymnastics to military service to research, each experience has contributed to my development. The skills and experiences gained here will empower me to make a meaningful impact in engineering and environmental sustainability."
As Carswell prepares to return to active duty, her achievements serve as an inspiration to future generations. Her dedication to both military service and environmental innovation exemplifies the potential for individuals to make a significant impact in multiple fields. With her groundbreaking research and leadership skills, Second Lieutenant Carswell is poised to continue making history and driving positive change in the years to come.