Today we’d like to introduce you to Jasmine Lu.
Hi Jasmine, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Jasmine Lu, and I am an aspiring mechanical engineer. I have always been drawn to both creative and technical work, even before I had the language to describe it that way. Growing up, I spent a lot of time making things—through art, music, and hands-on projects—and I enjoyed the process just as much as the outcome. I liked slowing down, paying attention to details, and figuring things out through experimentation. That mindset eventually led me toward engineering.
When I began studying mechanical engineering at The University of Texas at Austin, I realized that the same habits I developed through art carried over directly into how I approached technical work. Painting taught me patience and precision, music trained my ear for patterns and structure, and hands-on hobbies like building and crafting helped me feel comfortable working through uncertainty. Those skills became especially valuable once I started getting involved outside the classroom.
Working in the machine shop, joining design teams, and participating in project-based research helped me connect theory to real systems. I learned how to iterate, troubleshoot, and collaborate, and I became more confident working with physical components rather than just equations on paper. At the same time, my creative hobbies continued to shape how I thought about design—pushing me to consider aesthetics, user experience, and the human side of engineering decisions.
Outside of academics, I still spend a lot of time creating, whether that’s painting, playing music, or staying active through things like climbing. Those activities keep me grounded and influence how I approach problem-solving: with curiosity, persistence, and attention to detail. Today, I see my path as a combination of all these experiences. I’m still learning and exploring, but each step has helped me better understand the kind of engineer I want to become—someone who values both technical rigor and creativity, and who enjoys the process of building something meaningful.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. A lot of the challenge hasn’t been academic as much as personal—figuring out who I am, what I care about, and where I actually fit. For a long time, I felt pulled in different directions between creative work and technical paths, and it took time to realize that I didn’t have to choose one or force myself into a single box.
There were also moments of self-doubt, especially early on, when I questioned whether I belonged in certain spaces or if I was “doing enough” compared to others. Learning to stop measuring my progress against someone else’s timeline was a real struggle, and it’s something I still actively work on. Some of the hardest moments came from uncertainty—trying things, realizing they weren’t quite right, and having to pivot rather than follow a clear, linear plan.
Beyond that, I’ve had to learn how to be patient with myself. Engineering, creative work, and personal growth all move at different paces, and I used to see that as a weakness rather than a strength. Balancing rigorous coursework with hands-on projects, creative outlets, and making time for myself and my loved ones wasn’t always easy, and there were times when I felt stretched thin or unsure if I was prioritizing the “right” things.
Nowadays, I am at a place where I feel more balanced, grounded, and at peace, but I have also learned that balance isn’t something you achieve once and move on from. It’s an ongoing process—one that requires constant reflection, adjustment, and growth. Learning that I will always need to adapt has been an important realization, and I’ve come to see that as the beauty of it rather than a challenge to overcome.
Looking back, those struggles I have mentioned were essential to who I am now. They taught me how to reflect, adapt, and stay grounded during uncertainty. Instead of seeing the lack of a perfectly smooth path as a setback, I’ve come to see it as what shaped my confidence, perspective, and resilience. It’s helped me trust the process, embrace change, and move forward with more clarity about who I am and how I want to grow.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Beyond my academic career, a large part of who I am is rooted in creative work, especially art. I work primarily in oil painting, focusing on hyper-realistic pieces that require patience, precision, and close attention to detail. One of the works I’m most proud of is a painting of my grandmother, inspired by her life and experiences in Asia. That piece holds deep personal meaning for me and represents deep cultural memory.
In my engineering work, I specialize in hands-on, design-focused problem-solving. I’m known for being detail-oriented, thoughtful in my approach, and willing to iterate until something feels both functional and intentional. Whether I’m working in a machine shop, on a design team, or on a project that blends technical and human considerations, I bring the same mindset I use in my art: slowing down, observing carefully, and refining through layers.
What sets me apart is the way I bridge creativity and engineering. My background in art has shaped how I see systems, notice subtleties, and approach design with empathy and intention. I’m proud of the fact that I don’t see creativity and technical rigor as separate—instead, I see them as strengths that inform one another. That perspective has helped me create work that is not only technically sound, but thoughtful, human-centered, and meaningful.
What matters most to you? Why?
What matters most to me is doing work that I genuinely love and making the most of the moments I’m given. I care deeply about continuing to grow as a person while staying connected to the people who matter most in my life—my family and close friends. Being present with them, building meaningful memories, and supporting one another is something I value more than any single achievement.
I’m also motivated by growth and learning. Seeing my knowledge develop over time, turning effort into real skill, and working toward goals I’m proud of is incredibly important to me. I find fulfillment in the process—putting in the work, improving steadily, and recognizing progress along the way.
At the same time, I try to stay grounded in the small things: moments of beauty, shared experiences, and everyday wins that often go unnoticed. Being able to look back and feel proud of who I’m becoming, the memories I’ve made, and the lives I’ve shared with others is what gives meaning to everything else.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminelu2006/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasminee.luu/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminelu2006/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jasmineluuu
- Other: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGdWTYfazs/hDQ189P9-ruJeDpy9eUWjA/view?utm_content=DAGdWTYfazs&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=ha91d41d769
Image Credits
Jasmine Lu
