Meet the Class of 2021: India Lloyd

India Lloyd
College of Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering

“If your dreams do not scare you, they’re not big enough." ―Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf (former president of Liberia & member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated)

Hometown: Houston, Texas

Minor: Leadership and Social Change - helps to cultivate leadership skills that allow students to explore their passions, increase their strengths, and develop their leadership potential. It encourages interactions related to social issues for the mere purpose of exercising power to fulfil social responsibilities, and embrace opportunities to create positive change in ourselves and in the world around us.

Fun fact about yourself: I LOVE to travel and enjoy pineapple on my pizza. :)

If you participated in an internship, what company was it for and what were your job responsibilities?

United Parcel Services (UPS) working in a Project Management role; overseeing small packaging operations.

Which faculty member has made the biggest impact in your undergraduate education and how?

My academic advisor, Maggie Johnson, has positively impacted my college journey because she listened to what I wanted to gain from my experience and notified me of upcoming opportunities which inspired my success.

Aside from your classmates, what has been the best part of being an industrial and systems engineering major at Virginia Tech?

I enjoyed working with the faculty within the department and obtaining the necessary resources to pursue interests outside of engineering such as research, study abroad, professional events, and certain organizations.

What club or activity excites you most at Virginia Tech and why?

I am a member of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) and I enjoy interacting and speaking with other students who have the same interests and goals as myself.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your student career so far?

I have enjoyed working with students in multiple roles including Residential Advisor, Conversational Support (writing center), Yates Scholar, LSAMP Scholar, and as an Orientation Leader.

Did you get the chance to study abroad?

I was blessed to travel to Italy, Germany, and Switzerland with the Rising Sophomore Abroad Program. We had a blast visiting engineering schools, international engineering companies, and organizations. I enjoyed eating delicious foods and visiting historical landmarks. I traveled to three different locations with 30 other Virginia Tech peers and was able to grow connections with other individuals.

What was your defining moment at Virginia Tech and how has it prepared you for your future career?

A defining moment for me was during the pandemic crisis in 2020. I took three classes while interning for UPS in Seattle, Washington and was able to utilize the needed skills that allowed me to be successful in both an academic and a professional setting. I was also able to connect with other students who pushed me towards success.

What are your plans after graduation?

I have accepted a Systems Engineering Associate position with Lockheed Martin in Northern Virginia. I am excited to continue growing as an individual and will use the skills acquired during my college career.