Rowan & Roots

What inspired you to pursue engineering as your major, and why did you choose Rowan University?

I choose to study engineering because of past experiences of flooding in my hometown of Ellicott City, Maryland. There were 2 bad floods, one in 2016 and another in 2018. Based on the downhill orientation of the slope of Old Ellicott City, the historic part [a mile from where I grew up], it destroyed a lot of small businesses, cars, and even killed people. I told myself if I could use my skills in math & science to make a difference than I would. Rowan University was the best option for me because I have family close to there and they offer the best engineering program for the lowest price.

What has been your favorite memory or moment so far within the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering?

My favorite memory in the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering was the bottle rocket project in Sophomore Engineering Clinic one (SEC-I) In SEC-I we used water and pressurized air as a propulsion system and our rocket went a maximum of ~240ft.

Is there a class, professor, or experience that has shaped your path or helped you find your niche?

The PIPES clinic last semester transitioning into this semester is my favorite class because it is a unique opportunity that allows me to extend my academic knowledge into real world professional applications. I am working at Stonefield Engineering and Design, a land development firm, aiding in the site plan process. I would also like to commend Dr. Jahan, Dr. Trias, and Dr. Liu for being my most memorable professors to date.

What’s the most valuable skill you've developed in your program so far?

I have to say the attention to detail and precision that is demanded in the engineering program. One small detail is all it takes for something to go wrong.

Can you share a project you're especially proud of — from Engineering Clinic, coursework, or a personal build?

Finishing my final project in Engineering Graphics (Intro to AutoCAD) was one of my most favorite projects to work on. In AutoCAD we were tasked with designing a house and I put intricate details in it like a videogame console, furniture, and appliances. I easily took over 30 hours of work.

Have your academic or career interests changed since your first year? How so?

Yes, my academic and career goals have changed a bit. From interning at Stonefield over the summer to attending an event in New York City, sponsored by the Moles foundation, I am definitely considering the other niche areas of civil engineering like tunnel engineering or site civil engineering.

Engineering with Impact

How do you see engineering making a difference in the world — and what part of that impact excites you most?

Engineering is everywhere whether people wish to believe it or not. The computer that you type on, the food that you eat, the air that you breathe, the floor that is supporting your weight, and the car you drive. All of these things went through an iterative process to become better and better over the course of time and this is why everything is so convenient to you right now. The part that most excites me is the new technologies that are in the research phases and have yet to be brought to light. For example, 3D printing of concrete will revolutionize the construction industry by cutting costs, increasing precision, and producing a safer environment with less accidents.

Are you involved in any student organizations, research labs, competitions, or campus jobs? How have these shaped your experience?

One organization that I am a part of is the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) chapter at Rowan University. This has shaped my engineering experience because it promotes the excellence and experience of African-Americans in the STEM field. This organization is important because it communicates the message that minorities do not have to be discouraged from studying in fields like STEM based on oppressive forces. African-Americans have excelled in the past and will continue to excel into the future.

What advice would you give to future Rowan Engineering students who want to get involved, grow, and make an impact?

Make sure you are not just pursuing engineering for the money because it is more than that. It is a commitment to the public promising to protect and innovate for future generations allowing for a better world.

Your Engineer’s Lens

What’s something in everyday life that you look at differently now that you’re studying engineering?

Concrete is definitely something that I look at differently, because there are different types for separate occasions. For example you need additional mixes for cold weather applications so the concrete will not break due to freezing conditions and for bridges another type is required due to the salt in the water which could damage regular concrete.

If you could design, invent, or improve anything — no limits — what would it be and why?

If I had the opportunity I would help the inventor Julian Brown with his plasto-line campaign. He is actively turning wasted plastic materials into car fuel and if this falls through it will be one of the most revolutionary inventions ever!

Quick Hits

First engineering-related experience at Rowan (clinic, club, job, or project): Clinic (Duplo Project).

Go-to drink or snack during late-night study sessions: Asad’s hot Chicken (Loaded fries) and lemonade.

One engineering tool, app, or software you rely on most: AutoCAD.

Favorite spot to study or hang out on campus: Engineering Hall/ Business Hall Classrooms.

One word that describes your engineering mindset: Precise.

“I want to be an engineer because…” I want to make the world safe for my kids (eventually when I have children).