Where are you from? I am from Phoenix, Arizona, though I have lived in Cedar Rapids, Iowa since a very young age.
Why did you choose Kirkwood? I initially chose Kirkwood due to the closeness to home and affordability, but eventually, I grew to know many of the faculty and realized how much they truly care for their students’ success, which is primarily what keeps me loving and coming to Kirkwood.
What is your major and how did you choose it? I am pursuing a career in Biomedical Engineering. From childhood, I loved watching medical technologies documentaries, and even though I forgot about this for some time, I reconnected to my passion after I spoke with a professor of mine and a biomedical engineer family member.
What has been your proudest moment at Kirkwood? Being selected as an Outstanding Student is my new proudest moment! Prior to this, my proudest moment would be becoming a Student Ambassador, as well as all the times I led tours or participated in the student panel.
What are your plans after Kirkwood? After Kirkwood, I intend to transfer to the University of Iowa, right into the College of Engineering, and complete my bachelor’s degree. Once that is complete, I will get a job within the field, though I am unsure specifically what area of biomedical engineering I would like to pursue.
What inspires or motivates you? My mother is my biggest inspiration, as well as my motivator. Her constant strength through the toughest times of our lives always told me to keep pushing through whatever comes my way, and when I struggle to push through, she is there to help me. I owe everything that I am now to her.
Tell us about who you are outside of Kirkwood. I have a multitude of hobbies, but I primarily love gaming, reading, baking and building 3D models. I take interest in just about anything science or math, and I always enjoy reading articles and research papers. I regularly go to the Eastern Iowa Observatory, and volunteer as an event coordinator at the Islamic Center of Cedar Rapids.
What does being named an Outstanding Student mean to you? Being named an Outstanding Student means that all the work I have been put in to being a good student is paying off. The sleepless nights and hours studying, as well as the time spent being involved around campus, is all coming to fruition.
Is there anything else you’d like to add? I would simply like to thank all the faculty members who are mentoring me through my college career and helping me find opportunities to excel and aid my future career.
Categories: Outstanding Students
