Hello! My name is Lauren Troy. I am an incoming second year student at the University of Pittsburgh studying Applied Mathematics in the David C. Frederick Honors College. I hail from the suburbs of Philadelphia in Delaware County. I enjoy running, playing the piano, and reading in my free time.

I am studying Applied Mathematics with the hope of using data to improve societal and environmental issues. Specifically, I am interested in how we can design our cities to be more walkable and enjoyable to live in. I also am passionate about the survival of endangered plant and animal species.

I hope that my experience studying abroad in the Netherlands will challenge me personally, academically, and professionally. I am excited to learn more about the focus of this program, sustainability, as the Netherlands is a leader in sustainable innovation. The pedestrian and biker friendly infrastructure in Netherland’s cities has interested me for years, and I can’t wait to learn from the design of Amsterdam and Rotterdam firsthand. I will also be able to learn more about engineering and design as this program is partnered with the Swanson school. Overall, my time abroad will serve as an important step in my academic and career development as it will engage me in sustainability, city design, and engineering.