• Patti Grace Smith Fellow, Class of 2025

• Columbia University, Mechanical Engineering, ‘27

• Host Institution: Joby

Isabella is a second-year student Mechanical Engineering student at Columbia University. She developed a passion for aerospace engineering at a young age sparked by a fascination with model rockets. Through her studies of physics, mathematics, and robotics, this interest has continued to grow as she explores the complexities of the field. As a member of the Columbia Space Initiative, Isabella serves as Co-lead of the Rocket Airframe and Recovery Team where she oversees the design and construction of the rocket fins as well as the recovery system. Additionally, she is an active member of Columbia’s Formula Racing Team. There she is on the Frame Body and Aerodynamics Team. Amongst these teams, she works with composite materials such as carbon fiber and fiberglass to craft essential parts for both the rocket and the Formula racing car. In the summer of 2024, Isabella served as a Summer Student Leader for Columbia Engineering Outreach's SHAPE program, where she was a teaching assistant for a robotics course and led an aerospace course. Isabella is passionate about sharing her love for aerospace with others, hoping to inspire and encourage the next generation of individuals to pursue careers in the aerospace industry.