Kenny Choi wears several hats. He is the guitarist and vocalist for Daphne Loves Derby, an indie/folk band with millions of plays on MySpace and PureVolume, three released albums and one more pending release. He has a solo project called Wolfton, and produces for other musical artists and studios.
The self-proclaimed “closet nerd” is also a Chemical Engineering senior and the first recipient of the department’s Rehm Award. Established in 2010 by alumnus Thomas Rehm, the award gives $2,500 to the student with the most improved GPA earned in their junior year. “I was confident that I could improve my performance by changing the way I studied, but I had no idea it would result in an award. I feel extremely fortunate,” said Choi.
A trip and some Dummies texts brought Choi to ChemE. “While traveling through Texas a few years ago, I purchased copies of Chemistry For Dummies, Physics For Dummies, and Algebra For Dummies, solely because I was sick of reading paperback bestsellers. Around the same time, I started reading scientific journals, and was really inspired by all the people who were using science to make the world a better place. I decided to do everything I could to add to their efforts. After doing some research, it seemed like a degree in chemical engineering was a perfect platform for my goals.”
But his journey through the program posed some challenges for the student and rocker. “I really struggled during my first quarter in the department, and I still carry a piece of that anxiety with me when I take exams,” he said. “But I learned how to be systematic with my studies. I keep track of exactly what I need to work on, and try to fulfill the agenda to the fullest.”
Kenny credits part of his success to Rehm and his award. “Winning the award has definitely given me more confidence...I had a chance to grab lunch with Dr. Rehm over the summer; it was really nice to thank him in person. I think he created this award to acknowledge students who are willing to fight after a fall. He understands how a little bit of encouragement can propel someone towards a goal. I promised Dr. Rehm I would continue trying my best; I can't let him down.”
Scheduled to graduate in June, Kenny plans to hang up his guitar and seek a career using his ChemE degree. “Over the past few months, I've become aware of a brand new set of priorities. All I want is to find a career that allows me to do good work with my life, and gives me enough time to be a family-oriented man. I definitely want to be an engineer or consultant."