PJ Morgan (BS ’25). Photo by Ben Walter.
What inspired you to study engineering?
As a kid, I loved figuring out how things work. I was a big Lego fan, especially drawn to solving problems with creative builds. That desire to create practical solutions to interesting challenges is what ultimately led me to mechanical engineering.
I’ve always valued my close relationship with my family, and I wanted to find a school that offered that same sense of community. USC’s culture, football spirit and dynamic learning environment made it a unique opportunity.
What do you consider to be some of your most significant academic achievements?
Just being accepted into USC was a major achievement for me. As a transfer student, I didn’t get in initially, which was profoundly disappointing. But I didn’t give up. After a year and a half at the University of Washington – where I met some of my closest friends – I was admitted to USC in the spring of my sophomore year.
Since then, I’ve made the Dean’s List every semester, survived the notoriously tough MechOps course, graduated Magna Cum Laude, and was accepted into the aerospace and mechanical engineering progressive degree program.
Tell us about the research or a project that made an impact on you?
Throughout my time at USC, I’ve been involved in the Formula Student Project, taking on several roles with USC Formula Electric to design an electric racecar. I started as a sophomore and was invited to attend the Formula SAE competition in Michigan that summer. Then, I was appointed frame lead for the following year.
That role taught me things I never could have learned in a classroom: how to manage a project from start to finish, lead a team, troubleshoot under pressure, and apply real-world engineering principles. This year, I’ve had the honor of serving as Chief Engineer. We recently unveiled our car at the AME Awards – the first time in team history. We’re aiming to compete in the dynamic events at Michigan this June, and none of it would be possible without the incredible support of our advisors, Professor Yann Staelens and Senior Lab Technician Bill Colvin. They’ve made a lasting impact on both the car and our team.
One of the most meaningful opportunities I had came through USC Formula Electric: an internship at SpaceX on the Falcon propulsion team. It was surreal walking through the factory each day, surrounded by rockets, and even more surreal to design and contribute to flight-qualified hardware. I was fortunate to receive a return offer and will be going back this summer as a graduate engineering intern.
Have you been involved in any extracurricular activities during your studies?
Yes! Outside of academics, I joined several student organizations. During my sophomore year, I was part of the Trojan Barbell Club, which gave me the chance to explore powerlifting. I even competed in a mock meet for beginner lifters and won my weight class.
I also joined Acts2Fellowship (A2F), a Christian fellowship group on campus. Transferring mid-year made it challenging to find community at first, but A2F was incredibly welcoming and where I made my first friends at USC – people I’m still close to today.
What’s your best piece of advice for other students?
Don’t be afraid to try something new – even if it doesn’t go perfectly. The most valuable lessons, skills, and friendships often come from the times you take a risk, face setbacks and keep going. Commit to what excites you and stay open to growth.
What’s next after graduation? Any long-term “moonshot” goals?
This summer, I’m excited to return to SpaceX as a graduate engineering intern. I hope to continue building my skill set and prove myself with the goal of earning a full-time position after completing my master’s degree at USC next year.
A long-term moonshot goal? Contributing to a SpaceX rocket that goes to the Moon or even Mars. I feel incredibly lucky to already be part of projects that push humanity forward. Contributing to a piece of history would be an amazing honor.
Published on May 12th, 2025
Last updated on May 13th, 2025
