The most meaningful relationship in my life - the one that continues to shape my identity, my values, and the way I connect with others, is the relationship I share with my family. Growing up in a close-knit household, I learned early that relationships are not defined by proximity but by intention, care, and the willingness to show up for one another. Now, as an international student pursuing my master’s degree in petroleum engineering at the University of Oklahoma, I understand more deeply how profoundly my family has influenced the person I am becoming. Leaving home to study in another country was one of the most challenging decisions I have ever made. I knew it would open doors academically and professionally, but I also knew it meant stepping away from the people who had been my foundation. What I didn’t expect was how the distance would transform our relationship. Instead of weakening our bond, it strengthened it. We learned to communicate more intentionally, to celebrate small victories across time zones, and to support each other through challenges even when we couldn’t be in the same room. Every call, message, and shared moment became a reminder that love is not limited by geography. My family taught me that connection is built through consistency and compassion. They modeled what it means to listen without judgment, to offer support without conditions, and to believe in someone even when they doubt themselves. Their unwavering faith in me has shaped my confidence and resilience. Whenever I face academic pressure, cultural adjustments, or moments of loneliness, I hear their voices reminding me why I started this journey and who I am capable of becoming. This relationship has deeply influenced the way I build connections with others. As an international student, I have met people from diverse backgrounds, each carrying their own stories, challenges, and dreams. My family’s example has taught me to approach others with empathy and curiosity. I’ve learned to listen actively, to value different perspectives, and to create spaces where people feel seen and understood. Whether I am collaborating with classmates on a complex engineering project or helping a fellow international student navigate life in a new country, I try to bring the same patience, warmth, and openness that my family has always shown me. In my field, petroleum engineering, technical knowledge is essential, but human connection is what makes innovation possible. The energy industry relies on collaboration, trust, and communication across cultures and disciplines. My ability to build meaningful relationships helps me work effectively in teams, adapt to new environments, and contribute positively to the communities I am part of. The lessons I learned from my family guide me not only in my personal life but also in my academic and professional pursuits. Ultimately, the relationship that shaped me continues to influence how I show up in the world. It reminds me that strong connections, whether familial, professional, or within a community, have the power to change lives. My family gave me the foundation to pursue my dreams, and in everything I do, I hope to honor the values they instilled in me by building relationships that uplift, support, and inspire others.

I grew up in Azerbaijan, a country where the natural world is both stunning and fragile, and where the energy industry shapes the rhythm of daily life. My journey from those early years to pursuing a master’s degree in petroleum engineering at the University of Oklahoma has been shaped by resilience, curiosity, and a commitment to protecting the environment. As a non‑traditional student with more than three years of industry experience, I bring a perspective shaped not only by academic ambition but by real-world responsibility. These values resonate deeply with the legacy of Irving S. Berman, whose life embodied hard work, intellectual drive, and a profound appreciation for nature. My parents worked hard to support our family, and although we were not a single‑parent household, financial hardship was a constant reality. Their perseverance taught me that opportunities are earned through discipline and determination. Those lessons guided me as I entered the energy sector after completing my undergraduate studies. Working in industry gave me a firsthand understanding of the complex balance between meeting global energy demands and safeguarding the environment. It also strengthened my belief that meaningful change must come from within - from professionals who understand both the technical and environmental dimensions of the field. During my years in industry, I saw how decisions made in the field directly affect ecosystems, communities, and long-term sustainability. I learned to appreciate the importance of responsible resource development and the urgent need for innovation that reduces environmental impact. These experiences motivated me to return to academia as a non‑traditional student, determined to deepen my technical expertise and contribute to solutions that protect the natural world I grew up admiring. At the University of Oklahoma, my graduate studies focus on sustainable reservoir management and environmentally conscious production technologies. I am committed to advancing practices that minimize ecological disruption while supporting responsible energy development, especially in regions like my home country where economic growth and environmental protection must coexist. Recently, I began serving as the Public Relations Officer for the SPWLA‑OU Student Chapter. This role allows me to amplify conversations about sustainability, scientific integrity, and environmental stewardship. I work to connect students with industry leaders, promote educational events, and highlight research that advances responsible resource development. It has strengthened my leadership skills and allowed me to contribute to a community that values both technical excellence and environmental ethics. Being a non‑traditional student with industry experience has shaped my academic journey in meaningful ways. I bring with me not only technical curiosity but also a grounded understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the energy sector. Every step of my path - from navigating financial hardship to transitioning back into academia - has reinforced my commitment to learning, leading, and protecting the natural world. The Irving S. Berman Stewardship Scholarship honors students who work hard, think boldly, and care deeply about the environment. Receiving this scholarship would ease the financial burden of my studies and empower me to continue pursuing research and leadership opportunities that align with Irv’s legacy. Like him, I strive each day to learn more, contribute more, and protect the world we all share.

My journey in engineering has been shaped by persistence, curiosity, and a deep commitment to contributing to the energy sector in meaningful ways. As a master’s student in petroleum engineering at the University of Oklahoma, and as an international student from Azerbaijan studying on an F‑1 visa, I bring with me both the technical foundation built through years in industry and the determination to expand my knowledge so I can help shape a more efficient and responsible energy future. Returning to academia after more than three years of professional experience has strengthened my belief in lifelong learning - an ideal that reflects the values Dr. Hassan Homami championed throughout his life. My passion for engineering began long before I entered the workforce. Growing up in Azerbaijan, a country whose history and economy are deeply intertwined with energy production, I became fascinated by the systems that power modern life. I was drawn to the complexity of subsurface engineering, the challenge of optimizing production, and the responsibility of ensuring energy security while minimizing environmental impact. This early interest evolved into a career in the petroleum industry, where I gained hands‑on experience working with multidisciplinary teams, solving operational challenges, and seeing firsthand how engineering decisions influence both local communities and global markets. Although my specialization is petroleum engineering, I have always been intrigued by the broader engineering ecosystem - especially the growing intersection between traditional energy systems and emerging intelligent technologies. Dr. Hassan’s work in smart and intelligent transportation systems resonates with me because it reflects a future where engineering disciplines converge to create safer, more efficient, and more sustainable infrastructure. The energy sector is undergoing a similar transformation, and I hope to contribute to that evolution by integrating data‑driven decision‑making, automation, and advanced modeling into subsurface engineering workflows. My plan for expanding my knowledge is rooted in both academic research and continued industry engagement. At the University of Oklahoma, I am focusing on advanced reservoir characterization and production optimization, areas where innovation can significantly reduce waste, improve efficiency, and support responsible resource development. I aim to pursue research that bridges traditional petroleum engineering with modern computational tools - an approach that mirrors Dr. Hassan’s belief in pushing boundaries and embracing new technologies. Beyond my studies, I hope to mentor younger engineers, especially international and non‑traditional students who may face challenges similar to those I encountered when restarting my academic journey. What drives me most is the desire to make a positive impact. I want to contribute to engineering solutions that are not only technically sound but also socially responsible. My long‑term vision is to work at the intersection of energy engineering and intelligent systems, helping develop technologies that support safer operations, reduce environmental risks, and improve the reliability of the infrastructure that communities depend on. Dr. Hassan’s legacy of mentorship, resilience, and dedication to education is deeply inspiring. His story reflects the values I strive to embody: perseverance, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to uplifting others. This scholarship would not only support my academic goals but also motivate me to continue building a career that honors the spirit of service and innovation he exemplified

One of the most important things I hope to build through my education is a bridge - one that connects knowledge to opportunity, and personal growth to community impact. As a graduate student from Azerbaijan pursuing my master’s degree in petroleum engineering at the University of Oklahoma, I see my future not only as a career path but as a chance to create something meaningful for both myself and the communities I belong to. Professionally, I want to build a career focused on responsible and innovative energy development. Having worked for more than three years in the oil and gas industry before coming to the United States, I witnessed firsthand how energy access shapes economies, communities, and daily life. My goal is to contribute to technologies and practices that make energy production safer, more efficient, and more sustainable. By building expertise in reservoir engineering and production optimization, I hope to play a role in improving how resources are managed - reducing waste, increasing efficiency, and supporting long‑term energy stability. This work has the potential to benefit not only my home country, where energy is a cornerstone of the economy, but also the global community as we navigate the future of energy. On a personal level, I want to build a foundation of leadership and service. My first semester in the United States was overwhelming as I adjusted to a new culture, academic system, and environment. Now that I am more settled, I have begun stepping into roles that allow me to support others. I was recently selected to serve as a Public Relations Officer for a student organization, and I plan to volunteer with additional groups on campus. My goal is to build a community where international students - especially those far from home - feel supported, understood, and empowered. I know how challenging it can be to start over in a new country, and I want to help others navigate that transition with confidence. Ultimately, what I want to build is a future defined by purpose: a career that contributes to meaningful change in the energy sector, and a personal commitment to uplifting the people around me. By combining technical knowledge with community engagement, I hope to create a positive impact that extends far beyond my own success. Education is the foundation of that vision, and I am determined to use it to build something that lasts.

For many people around the world, the American dream represents opportunity, possibility, and the belief that hard work can open doors that once seemed unreachable. As an international student from Azerbaijan pursuing my master’s degree in petroleum engineering at the University of Oklahoma, my definition of the American dream has grown more personal. To me, the American dream is not about achieving perfection or instant success - it is about having the chance to build a future through determination, resilience, and the willingness to grow, even when the path is unfamiliar. When I moved to the United States for graduate school, everything felt new: the culture, the academic expectations, and even the pace of daily life. My first semester in Fall 2025 was overwhelming at times. I was adjusting to a new country, a new education system, and the pressure of succeeding far from home. Because of this, I wasn’t able to volunteer as much as I hoped. Instead, I focused on learning how to navigate my environment, manage my coursework, and build a foundation for the rest of my studies. That period taught me that the American dream is not a race - it is a process of adapting, learning, and slowly finding your place. Now, as I enter my second semester, I feel more prepared to contribute to my community. I was recently chosen to serve as the Public Relations Officer for SPWLA-OU student chapter, a role I am excited to begin. Even though I haven’t had the chance to do much yet, I see this position as an opportunity to support other students, strengthen communication, and help create a welcoming environment for newcomers - especially those who, like me, are far from home. I also plan to volunteer with other organizations on campus and in the community, because giving back is an important part of how I define success. Being a non‑citizen shapes my understanding of the American dream in a unique way. I do not have the same safety nets or opportunities as citizens, and I often have to work harder to access resources, navigate immigration rules, and secure financial support. But these challenges have also strengthened my ambition. They remind me that the American dream is not guaranteed - it is earned through persistence, courage, and the belief that your goals are worth fighting for. For me, the American dream is the chance to build a life based on education, purpose, and contribution. It is the ability to come from another part of the world and still find a place where your hard work matters. It is the freedom to imagine a future shaped not by limitations, but by possibility. And most importantly, it is the opportunity to give back - to use the knowledge, skills, and experiences you gain to support others who are walking a similar path. As I continue my studies and expand my involvement in the community, I carry this definition with me. The American dream is not a destination; it is a journey of growth, resilience, and hope. And I am determined to make the most of the opportunity I have been given.

Wicked has always stood out to me as more than just a musical - it is a story about finding your voice, embracing who you are, and refusing to let the world define your worth. Even before the upcoming movie brought renewed excitement, the themes of Wicked resonated deeply with me, especially as someone who has moved across countries, faced unfamiliar environments, and had to rebuild a sense of identity far from home. What I love most about Wicked is the way it reimagines familiar characters and challenges the idea of “good” and “wicked.” Elphaba’s journey speaks to anyone who has ever felt misunderstood or judged before being truly known. Her strength comes not from perfection, but from courage - courage to stand up for what she believes in, even when it isolates her. As someone who has navigated major transitions in life, from military service to working in the oil industry to studying abroad in the United States, I connect with her determination to stay true to herself despite pressure to conform. Glinda, on the other hand, represents the search for meaning beneath the surface of popularity and expectations. Her growth throughout the story reminds me that kindness and self-reflection are just as powerful as bravery. The friendship between Elphaba and Glinda -imperfect, complicated, and transformative - captures the beauty of relationships that challenge us to grow. The music of Wicked is another reason I am such a fan. Songs like “Defying Gravity” and “For Good” feel like emotional anchors, even without quoting them directly. They capture the feeling of breaking free from limitations and recognizing the people who shape us. These songs have become anthems for anyone striving to rise above doubt or embrace change. For me, they echo the moments when I had to take risks - leaving home, pursuing education abroad, and trusting that my path, even if unconventional, was still worth following. Wicked inspires me because it celebrates individuality while reminding us that our choices define us more than our circumstances. It encourages compassion, challenges assumptions, and shows that even the most unlikely people can change each other’s lives “for good.” As I continue my studies and work toward my future in engineering, I carry these themes with me. They remind me to stay resilient, to value the people who support me, and to believe in my own ability to rise above challenges. Ultimately, I am a fan of Wicked because it blends powerful storytelling with emotional truth. It is a reminder that even when the world misunderstands you, your voice, your choices, and your courage still matter. That message continues to inspire me in my own journey.

I was born and raised in Azerbaijan, a country shaped by a rich blend of cultures, languages, and traditions. My first language is Azerbaijani, the language of my home, my childhood, and my earliest memories. Over the years, my linguistic world expanded: I learned Turkish fluently, picked up some Spanish vocabulary, and eventually developed strong proficiency in English. Today, I am pursuing a master’s degree in petroleum engineering at the University of Oklahoma, a path that reflects both my academic ambitions and my professional experience in the oil and gas industry. Before coming to the United States, I worked for more than three years in the energy sector, where I gained practical experience that strengthened my desire to pursue advanced education. My plans after graduation are focused on continuing my career in petroleum engineering, ideally in roles related to reservoir engineering or production optimization. I hope to contribute to the development of efficient, responsible energy solutions that support both economic growth and environmental awareness. My long‑term goal is to combine the technical knowledge I am gaining in the U.S. with the industry experience I built in Azerbaijan to make a meaningful impact in the global energy field. Being multilingual has played a significant role in shaping who I am and how I navigate the world. Azerbaijani remains the language that feels most natural emotionally, while Turkish has always been close due to cultural and linguistic similarities. Learning English opened doors to international education and professional opportunities, and it has become the language I use most in academic and technical settings. Even knowing a bit of Spanish has helped me connect with people from different backgrounds and appreciate the diversity around me. Of course, being bilingual - and in my case, multilingual - comes with challenges. Switching between languages can sometimes make it difficult to express complex ideas with the same nuance in each one. Academic writing in English, especially in a highly technical field, requires extra effort and precision. There are moments when I understand a concept clearly in my mind but need time to find the right English words to express it fully. These challenges, however, have taught me patience, adaptability, and the importance of continuous learning. The benefits of being multilingual are far greater. Speaking multiple languages has strengthened my ability to think flexibly, understand different perspectives, and communicate across cultures. It has helped me adjust more easily to life in the United States and connect with classmates from around the world. It also allows me to maintain a strong connection to my cultural identity while building a future in a new environment. Knowing several languages has made me more open‑minded, more curious, and more confident in navigating unfamiliar situations. As I work toward completing my degree and preparing for the next stage of my career, I am grateful for the experiences that brought me here - from my upbringing in Azerbaijan to my years in the oil industry, and now to my graduate studies in Oklahoma. My multilingual background is not just a skill; it is a part of my identity that continues to shape my academic journey, my personal growth, and my vision for the future.

My love for math began long before I understood its full depth. At first, it was simply the satisfaction of solving a problem - seeing a messy equation transform into a clean, clear answer. Over time, that satisfaction grew into something deeper. Math became a language that made sense of the world around me, a way to understand patterns, make predictions, and solve problems that once felt impossible. What I appreciate most about math is its balance between logic and creativity. Many people think math is rigid, but I’ve always seen it as a space where imagination thrives. There are countless ways to approach a problem, and each method reveals something new about how numbers and ideas connect. That freedom to explore, test, and discover is what keeps me engaged. Math rewards persistence, and it teaches humility- two qualities that have shaped how I approach challenges in every part of my life. Math also gives me a sense of stability. No matter where I am or what language is spoken, mathematical principles remain the same. This consistency has been especially meaningful as I’ve moved between countries and environments. When everything else feels unfamiliar, math feels like home. Beyond its beauty, math is powerful. It drives innovation, supports engineering, and helps us understand complex systems - from energy production to global economics. As someone pursuing a technical field, I love that math is both a tool and an inspiration. It pushes me to think critically, ask better questions, and look for solutions that are both elegant and practical. Ultimately, I love math because it challenges me, grounds me, and opens doors to understanding the world in ways nothing else can.

From 2020 to 2021, I served in the Azerbaijani military, stationed in the mountainous region of Nakhchivan. The environment was demanding - steep terrain, harsh winters, and long stretches of isolation that required constant alertness. Serving as a soldier in such conditions taught me discipline, patience, and the ability to stay focused even when circumstances were unpredictable. That year shaped my understanding of responsibility and strengthened my commitment to building a meaningful future once my service ended. After completing my military duty, I transitioned into the oil and gas industry, where I worked for more than three years. This period was transformative in a different way. I gained hands‑on experience in field operations, collaborated with engineers and technicians, and saw firsthand how energy production influences both local communities and national development. Working in the industry deepened my interest in petroleum engineering and helped me understand the technical, environmental, and economic challenges that shape the global energy landscape. It also made me realize that to contribute at a higher level, I needed advanced education and a broader perspective. That realization ultimately led me to move to the United States to pursue a master’s degree in petroleum engineering at the University of Oklahoma. Continuing my education is not just a career decision - it is a personal commitment to growth. My military service taught me resilience and mental toughness, while my industry experience taught me the importance of innovation and technical expertise. Together, these experiences shaped my academic goals and motivated me to seek opportunities that would allow me to contribute meaningfully to the future of energy. The transition from military life to professional work, and then to graduate school in a new country, has not been without challenges. Adjusting to a different culture, managing financial responsibilities, and balancing academic expectations with the emotional distance from home have all tested me in different ways. At times, the shift from a structured military environment to the independence of university life felt overwhelming. Yet the discipline I developed during service - and the problem‑solving mindset I gained in the oil industry - helped me stay focused and persistent. Supporting my community has become an important part of how I stay grounded through these transitions. While my contributions may not be as formal as John’s, I try to give back in ways that reflect my experiences. At the university, I help other international students - especially those from Azerbaijan or neighboring regions - navigate academic life, cultural adjustments, and the challenges of living far from home. I participate in cultural events, share advice about coursework and internships, and offer guidance to younger students considering careers in energy or studying abroad. These small acts of support help me stay connected to my roots while contributing to the community I am now part of. My journey - from the mountains of Nakhchivan to the oil fields, and now to graduate school in the United States - has taught me that service takes many forms. Whether in uniform, in industry, or in the classroom, I carry forward the lessons of resilience, responsibility, and community that have shaped every step of my path.

Growing up in Azerbaijan, one of the most influential figures in my life was my uncle, a man whose quiet strength came from experiences far harsher than most people ever face. Between 1990 and 1994, when he was barely in his late teens, he served in Nakhchivan during a period marked by instability, scarcity, and constant uncertainty. While many people his age were thinking about school, friendships, or the future, he was learning how to survive in an environment where every day demanded resilience. He rarely spoke about those years directly, but the stories he did share stayed with me. He described freezing winters when supplies were scarce, nights spent awake listening for danger, and long days when exhaustion felt heavier than the equipment he carried. Yet what struck me most was not the hardship itself, but the way he talked about it - with humility, not bitterness. He never portrayed himself as a hero. Instead, he emphasized the importance of staying calm under pressure, supporting the people around you, and finding small moments of hope even in the bleakest circumstances. One story in particular has shaped the way I think about perseverance. He once told me about a night when he and a few other young soldiers were stationed in the mountains during a severe snowstorm. Visibility was almost zero, and the cold was so intense that even their breath felt sharp. They had only a small fire and a few blankets between them. Instead of panicking, my uncle focused on keeping morale up. He cracked jokes, shared memories from home, and encouraged everyone to keep moving their hands and feet to stay warm. “Fear spreads fast,” he told me, “but so does courage.” That line has stayed with me ever since. His experiences taught me that strength is not loud or dramatic. It is often quiet, steady, and rooted in responsibility. Watching the way he carried himself - disciplined, patient, and deeply loyal to his family - helped shape my own values. He showed me that hardship can either harden you or deepen your compassion, and he chose the latter. Even after his service ended, the lessons he learned in Nakhchivan continued to guide him. He became the kind of person who never wasted food, who always checked in on neighbors, and who approached every challenge with a calm, methodical mindset. As a child, I didn’t fully understand why he lived this way. As an adult, I see that these habits were born from years when nothing could be taken for granted. When I think about him now, I don’t just think about the difficulties he endured. I think about the wisdom he carried forward and the way he passed it on to me - not through lectures, but through example. His story reminds me that resilience is built in the moments when no one is watching, and that the strength we gain from hardship can become a gift to the people we love.

Losing my grandfather last year marked one of the most defining emotional turning points of my life. I grew up in Azerbaijan in a close-knit family where he was not only an elder but a source of wisdom, humor, and quiet strength. His passing created a silence that felt unfamiliar and heavy, especially as I was preparing to continue my education in the United States. Navigating grief while stepping into a new academic chapter forced me to confront emotions I had never experienced so intensely before - sadness, longing, and at times, guilt for being far from home when my family needed one another the most. In the months that followed, I learned that grief is not a single emotion but a landscape. Some days brought clarity and gratitude for the memories we shared; others brought confusion and a sense of being unanchored. What surprised me most was how loss revealed parts of myself I had not fully recognized. I discovered a resilience that emerged not from ignoring pain but from allowing myself to feel it. I learned to be patient with myself, to accept that healing is not linear, and to appreciate the importance of staying connected to my roots even while pursuing opportunities far from home. During this period, meditation and journaling became essential tools for grounding myself. Meditation helped me slow down the constant rush of thoughts and emotions, giving me a space to breathe and observe rather than react. Journaling, on the other hand, became a private conversation with myself - a place where I could express grief honestly, reflect on my goals, and remind myself why I chose this path. Writing helped me transform overwhelming feelings into something I could understand and work through. Continuing my education, especially in petroleum engineering at the University of Oklahoma, is deeply tied to both personal ambition and family influence. Growing up in a country where energy plays a central role in the economy, I became fascinated by the technical and global importance of the field. My grandfather always encouraged me to pursue knowledge beyond borders, reminding me that education is one of the few investments that can never be taken away. His belief in my potential continues to motivate me, especially during challenging moments. The biggest influences in my life have always been my family. My parents taught me the value of hard work and integrity, while my grandfather taught me humility and perseverance. Beyond my family, I draw inspiration from individuals whose work shapes the world - scientists, engineers, and leaders who dedicate themselves to solving complex problems. Their commitment reminds me that pursuing higher education is not just about personal success but about contributing to something larger than myself. Although grief has shaped this chapter of my life, it has also strengthened my sense of purpose. It has taught me to honor my grandfather’s memory not only through mourning but through growth, resilience, and dedication to the goals he encouraged me to pursue.

As an international student pursuing a Master's in Petroleum Engineering at the University of Oklahoma on an F-1 visa, I have often felt like an outsider navigating the intricate landscape of American higher education. Coming from Azerbaijan, where educational systems emphasize rote learning and theoretical knowledge over practical application and interdisciplinary collaboration, my entry into this new academic environment has been filled with both excitement and apprehension. My primary hope is to leverage this opportunity to bridge cultural and educational gaps, transforming my outsider perspective into a unique strength that fosters innovation in the energy sector. However, I also harbor concerns about adapting to the fast-paced, discussion-based classrooms and the bureaucratic hurdles of visa regulations, which could limit my access to internships or research opportunities essential for my career growth. My experience as a first-generation immigrant has profoundly shaped my educational journey thus far. Growing up in Azerbaijan, education was a pathway to stability in a resource-constrained environment, but it lacked the emphasis on critical thinking and hands-on projects that define U.S. programs. When I arrived in the United States for my Master's program, I was thrust into a system where professors encouraged debate and group work, contrasting sharply with the lecture-heavy format I was accustomed to. This cultural shift initially led to feelings of isolation; simple things like understanding informal office hours or navigating online course platforms felt overwhelming without a familial network familiar with the system. Yet, it also built resilience. For instance, during my early coursework in reservoir engineering, I drew on my background working on oil field simulations back home to offer fresh insights on sustainable extraction methods, earning praise from peers and faculty. This immigrant lens has taught me to value adaptability, turning potential barriers—like language nuances or cultural misunderstandings—into opportunities for deeper learning. These experiences have equally influenced my future goals in petroleum engineering. As someone who witnessed the economic impacts of oil dependency in my home country, I aspire to contribute to the global transition toward renewable energy integration within traditional fossil fuel industries. My outsider status motivates me to pursue roles in international energy policy or research at organizations like the International Energy Agency, where diverse perspectives are crucial for addressing climate challenges. However, concerns linger: the uncertainty of post-graduation visa options, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT), could restrict my ability to gain U.S.-based experience, potentially forcing a return home before fully realizing my ambitions. Despite this, my immigrant journey has instilled a determination to advocate for inclusive policies in higher education, perhaps by mentoring other international students or collaborating on cross-cultural projects. Ultimately, entering higher education as an outsider has not only honed my technical skills but also reinforced my commitment to using engineering as a tool for global equity, turning my hopes into actionable goals while addressing my concerns through proactive engagement.