Star Swimmer Jaelle Carlson Leaves Her Mark in the Pool and Beyond
Whether slicing through water or solving complex equations, UA Little Rock senior Jaelle Carlson is known for giving her all as both a standout student-athlete and a driven future engineer.
A mechanical engineering major with a 3.97 GPA and a minor in mathematics, Carlson was named the 2025 Most Valuable Player for UA Little Rock’s swimming and diving team and will leave the university as a Scholar All-American. Her success stems from a strong work ethic, intentional time management, and a deep love for her sport and her teammates.
“I like to put my best effort into anything I do, and I encourage others to bring out the best in themselves too,” Carlson said. “For me to be my best can reflect back on them, and vice versa. I think that’s how we build each other up.”
Originally from Weatherford, Texas, Carlson chose UA Little Rock for its academic scholarships, the opportunity to swim competitively, and the people.
“I chose here for the community as much as the opportunity,” she said. “I knew I could compete in my sport and get a great education.”
Her college career has been nothing short of impressive. In the pool, Carlson has competed across the country—including high-level meets in Ocala, Florida, and against nationally ranked Power 4 schools. Carlson was part of a team of four swimmers that set a new school record during the 400 freestyle relay at the CSCAA National Invitational Championships this year.
“It’s been a struggle at times, but incredibly rewarding,” she said of her student-athlete experience. “There’s a lot of early mornings and late nights, but I’ve had the chance to travel, represent UA Little Rock, and still keep up with my classes thanks to supportive professors.”
That academic rigor included multiple internships and a place in Tau Beta Pi, the national engineering honor society. Carlson credits professors like Dr. Jin Lee and Stuart Schneider for helping shape her college experience.
“Dr. Jin Lee was a wonderful help and really pushed us to do our best,” she said. “And Stuart Schneider’s engineering statics class was one of my favorites I’ve ever taken.”
Her father’s career as an aeronautical engineer also influenced her path. “In high school, I loved math but didn’t want to major in just that,” she said. “Engineering gave me a place to apply it. Watching my dad’s journey inspired me a lot.”
After graduation, Carlson will return home for a summer internship at an aeronautical company—her third with the same organization. This time, she’ll be on the flight line, assisting with developmental flight testing alongside engineers.
“It’s exciting. I’ve worked under mechanical departments before, but being on the flight line will be a new hands-on experience,” she said.
In the fall, she’ll return to UA Little Rock to pursue her master’s degree in mechanical engineering, with hopes to eventually return to Texas for a career in aerospace engineering.
While graduating on May 17 marks the end of one chapter, it’s a milestone Carlson describes as “bittersweet.”
“I’ve really enjoyed the people and friends I’ve met here. Saying goodbye is hard in the moment,” she said. “But we’re all going to do amazing things, and I’m thankful we’ll stay connected.”
She also had a few heartfelt shoutouts: “I could not have done this journey without my parents, who were there supporting me every step of the way. And I have to thank the Starbucks crew on campus for always brightening my mornings and starting each day on the best note. You guys are amazing!”
Her advice to future students? “Embrace and enjoy every opportunity that comes your way—don’t pass it up. And write down your experiences. You’ll appreciate both the trials and victories long after college.”