Graduate Student Spotlight
November 2026 Spotlight
Avery Hantla
PhD student, Aerospace Engineering
My research interests include adaptive shock-fitting methods and transition-resolving wall-modeled large-eddy simulation. My research aims to enable more accurate and cost-effective predictions for complex flow regimes in real-world aerospace applications.
I enjoy playing pickleball and golfing on the weekends. I also enjoy traveling, hiking, and exploring new places.
What made you choose KU's School of Engineering?
My advisor was a major reason I chose to go to KU for my graduate degree. I enjoyed working with him on research as an undergraduate at KU, and I wanted to continue learning from him during graduate school.
What is something that makes KU's School of Engineering different?
KU's School of Engineering stands out to me because of the opportunities it provides to build strong relationships with faculty who are actively conducting cutting-edge research.
What opportunities, beyond classes and research, have you participated in through KU’s School of Engineering?
Outside of my classes and research, I have completed three internships with GE Aerospace where I have contributed to the development of next-generation aerospace propulsion technologies. I have also had the opportunity to teach and mentor undergraduate students to get them started in research and explore the possibility of graduate school. Additionally, I regularly attend policy luncheons as part of the Self Graduate Fellowship, which broadens my understanding of public policy and its intersection with research.