Gracie Orrico graduates this May with a bachelor’s degree in construction science and management from the Herbert College of Agriculture! After graduation, she is moving to Charleston, South Carolina, to work as a project engineer at Choate Construction.
Where are you from?
I am originally from Chicago, but I went to high school in Knoxville. I’ve also lived in Arizona and Atlanta, so I’m from a little bit of everywhere.
What drew you to the Herbert College of Agriculture and/or UT Knoxville?
I met students from UT’s construction science and management program while I was still in high school, and I immediately fell in love with the major. I could tell the Herbert College of Agriculture had a strong, supportive community, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it.
What is your fondest memory and/or proudest moment as a Vol?
My proudest moment as a Vol was starting UT’s Women in Construction Club. It is something I’m really passionate about and proud to have built. My fondest memory was our construction science and management study abroad trip to Italy. Getting to learn and travel alongside my classmates was an unforgettable experience.
What has been your favorite thing about being a Herbert/construction science and management student?
My favorite thing about being a Herbert construction science and management student is the strong sense of community on the ag campus and within our major. I get to spend my time surrounded by friends, which makes college so much more meaningful. We’re a group that genuinely lifts each other up and supports one another through all four years, and that’s something really special.
How did you stay inVOLved during your time here?
I served on the Construction Science Club Executive Board all four years of school, and I have been the Construction Science Club president for the last year and a half. I also started the Women in Construction Club in my sophomore year and served as co-president during its first semester as a club. I attended our major’s first study abroad program, which was amazing. I also served as team lead for the ABC Construction Management Competition.
Any faculty or staff mentors you want to give a shoutout to?
I love all of our construction faculty and staff! However, words can not describe how grateful I am to have Sonja Burk as my advisor. She has been my greatest supporter in my time at UT, and everything the program and I have accomplished would have never happened without all of her hard work.
How has Herbert and/or UT Knoxville helped prepare you for what comes next?
UT has taught me how to have grace under pressure and navigate the unexpected with confidence. My professors, advisor, and classmates have all played a huge role in my growth over the past four years, giving me the tools, support, and confidence I need to succeed on my own after graduation.
What does being a Volunteer mean to you?
Being a Volunteer means choosing to show up for others, not just yourself. It’s about saying yes to opportunities, caring deeply about the people around you and their future, and recognizing that UT thrives because of those who invest their time, energy, and heart into it.