This week on Engineering Pack Pod, host Marcy Bullock talks with NC State alumna Sydney Russell about confidence, curiosity, and why “networking” doesn’t have to feel so intimidating. Sydney reflects on her journey from college advising and graduate school to working in higher education technology, sharing how navigating uncertainty and not always knowing what she wanted to be “when she grew up”, shaped her path. She explains how leading with genuine curiosity, rather than an agenda, helped her build meaningful relationships that opened doors along the way.From striking up conversations in class to following up months later with intention, Sydney offers practical, down-to-earth advice for building connections that actually last. Whether you’re an introvert, an extrovert, or somewhere in between, this episode is a reminder that showing up as yourself is often the best place to start.

This week, Marcy is joined by NC State and Smooth Sailing alumna Dr. Rahaf Abdullah to discuss the importance of mindset in personal, academic, and professional transitions. Rahaf recounts her various transitions–moving to a new country, interning, applying for jobs, and relocating for full-time work–sharing how her mindset and personal goals give her the courage to continue growing on her journey. Looking for tips on navigating big transitions with success? Look no further! This episode addresses both the mental and practical components that shape one's journey.

Marcy shares her word of the year and offers inspiration to begin 2026 with intention and gratitude.

In this Courage Corner conversation, Marcy sits down with Dr. Rita Renee, a TEDx speaker, author, and empowerment coach who helps women step out of the shadows and share their stories with confidence. Together, they explore what it means to be authentic in a world filled with comparison, fear, and imposterism, and they discuss how community, collaboration, and small steps forward can spark real transformation. Dr. Renee opens up about her own journey of healing and courage, and she shares how focusing on legacy can guide your path through uncertainty. This episode offers an inspiring reminder that your voice matters and that you are closer to your purpose than you think.See more of Dr. Renee Here:https://drritarenee.com/powerhouse-unmute

In this Courage Corner episode, Luka and Marcy break down what core career skills are and why they matter just as much as your technical expertise. They explore how understanding your strengths, gaps, and growth areas helps you tell your story with confidence, and they share practical ways to identify which skills are most important for your goals. Through self-assessment tools and campus resources, they offer simple, actionable strategies for developing the habits and abilities that will support you in any career path. Whether you are unsure where to start or ready to sharpen your toolkit, this conversation provides clear guidance for building the skills that truly move you forward.

Here is the tool Marcy mentions.

Check out NCSU Linkedin Learning Here

This week, Dr. Emily McCain joins us to talk about what it really means to explore your options as a student and young professional. Emily shares how taking a gap year shaped her confidence, how studying abroad expanded her perspective, and why beginning college as “deciding” can be a healthy and productive choice. She also reflects on finding the right academic culture, discovering what you truly want to do, balancing life and career, and choosing between industry and academia. If you’re still figuring out your direction, this episode offers practical reassurance and honest insight into building a path that fits you.Check out Study Abroad opportunities here:https://studyabroad.ncsu.edu/

In this Courage Corner episode, we dive into one of the most important parts of the grad school journey: building a strong, healthy relationship with your advisor. Luka sits down with Marcy Bullock to explore how communication styles, cultural backgrounds, and personal habits all shape the advisor-student dynamic. Together, they unpack how to build rapport, set shared goals, navigate conflict with confidence, and adapt to different working styles. Marcy also offers practical guidance on growing a broader professional network and reminds us why meaningful relationships don’t just happen, they’re built with intention. Whether you're just starting your program or looking to strengthen your personal board of directors, this episode offers grounded wisdom to help you thrive personally, academically, and professionally.

Join us this week as NC State student Victoria Canala-Echevarria shares her story of leaving Ecuador and finding her place at NC State through thrilling traditions such as cheering at football games and rushing the bell tower. She opens up about navigating cultural challenges, the importance of asking for help, and discovering new joys like Howling Cow ice cream and seeing snow for the first time. Victoria also shares valuable insights for new students on building a community and making the most of the college experience. Join us for an inspiring story about finding courage and connection far from home.