Danielle E. White is graduating with a Ph.D. in materials science. She has been examining the mechanical behavior of optical thin films, which have aerospace and defense applications. Image/Danielle E. White
For Danielle E. White, engineering has always gone hand in hand with community and purpose. The Lynn, Massachusetts native first discovered her passion for engineering while programming Lego robots in elementary school, a spark that would ultimately lead her to pursue a Ph.D. in Materials Science in the USC Mork Family Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, working within the Hodge Materials Research Group. White’s research into the mechanical behavior of optical coatings challenged her to think, question, and grow at the highest level. Along the way, White co-founded ScholarSoul, a student organization dedicated to fostering both professional development and belonging. As she looks ahead to her next chapter, White reflects on her time at USC Viterbi.
Danielle E. White
Hometown: Lynn, Massachusetts
Degree: Ph.D., Materials Science
What first inspired you to study engineering?
In 5th grade, I was a participant of a gifted and talented extracurricular program. During one of the sessions, volunteers from GE helped us construct, program, and operate Lego robots. I was so awe-inspired that I asked a volunteer what “this” would be called if I were to major in it in college. Their answer was “Mechanical Engineering,” and I never looked back.
Tell us about the research you have been working on.
My research is the investigation of the mechanical behavior of optical coatings. While the topic itself has kept me intrigued throughout my program, the most impactful part of the project was learning how to design, question, think, and analyze to the level of someone with a Ph.D. Kudos to my advisor!
Are there any extracurricular activities or organizations you have been part of during your studies?
A peer and I co-founded a new student organization, called “ScholarSoul.” Through intentional programming, we emphasize that engineering Ph.D. students do not have to choose between community and professional development — they can be intertwined!
What are your plans post-graduation?
I will be joining Northrop Grumman as an engineer within their Future Technical Leaders program, and I’m very excited! It is a rotational program, and my location has yet to be determined, so we shall see where I land soon!
Based on what you know now, what is your best piece of advice for other students?
It is always good to embrace discomfort, but please never abandon who you are at your core for the sake of “success.” The Ph.D. experience should allow you to leave with a degree AND a surety of who you are!
What’s an area where you feel like you’ve really grown between your first semester of college and today? What have you learned along the way?
More than anything, my college and graduate school experiences have exposed the vulnerable, most inner parts of myself- the good, the bad, the ugly. In turn, I have learned what it truly means to walk with God, surrender to Him and His plan, and continually seek His face above all else. Nothing else matters, and making it through undergrad and grad school would have been impossible without Him.
Published on May 8th, 2025
Last updated on May 8th, 2025
