Ryan Slocum: The Daring, Initiative-Driven Graduate of CU Boulder – Earning the College of Engineering and Applied Science’s 2024 Academic Engagement Award
Ryan Slocum (CompSci’24) is a standout student at CU Boulder, earning the 2024 graduating student academic engagement award from the College of Engineering and Applied Science. His accomplishments are numerous, including serving as a T.A., participating in the President’s Leadership Class, completing three internships, and promoting thoughtful discourse in his classes.
But what sets Slocum apart is his initiative – he spearheaded an effort to map the leadership landscape at CU Boulder for the Center for Leadership. His nominators praised his fearless desire to learn, intellectual humility, and ability to excel while maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Winning this award is a great honor for Slocum, as it signifies the culmination of his time at CU Boulder and his involvement in various programs and opportunities. He feels proud to be part of the group of college award winners.
The most important lesson he has learned at CU is that trying new things, especially those that are intimidating, lead to personal growth and development. He advises his younger self and others to embrace new experiences and face their fears, as this is key to personal growth.
Slocum credits his parents for their unwavering support, as well as his professors and peers in the President’s Leadership Class for their guidance and inspiration. Looking ahead, Slocum has personal goals of competing in a 100-mile ultramarathon and obtaining a graduate degree in robotics to work on impactful projects in the field.
