When people hear the word "build," they often think of buildings, bridges, or machines. I think about building something that people rarely see but rely on every day: stronger materials. Every airplane that flies safely, every vehicle that protects its passengers, and every electronic device that performs reliably depends on materials that can withstand demanding conditions. My goal is to help build those materials while also building opportunities for others who dream of becoming engineers. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering at New Mexico Tech. My research focuses on understanding how materials behave under extreme conditions, particularly during high-velocity microparticle impacts. Although these studies take place in a laboratory, their impact extends far beyond it. By understanding how and why materials fail, engineers can design stronger, safer, and more reliable technologies for industries such as aerospace, transportation, manufacturing, and semiconductors. Every experiment reminds me that meaningful innovation begins with understanding the smallest details. By investigating microscopic material behavior, I hope to contribute to the development of next-generation materials that are stronger, lighter, and more energy efficient. My long-term vision is to translate this research into technologies that improve everyday life while supporting safer infrastructure and a more sustainable future. My interest in building better technologies began long before my doctoral studies. As a research assistant in Sri Lanka, I explored environmentally friendly dye-sensitized solar cells using natural chlorophyll. Later, during my master's degree in Applied Electronics, I designed and developed a two-dimensional ultrasonic anemometer and wind vane system. Each project taught me that innovation is built one experiment, one improvement, and one lesson at a time. Today, that same mindset guides my doctoral research. However, the future I want to build extends beyond engineering research. Throughout my journey, I have worked as a teacher, teaching assistant, and visiting lecturer. Those experiences showed me that knowledge becomes more valuable when it is shared. I have seen how encouragement can change a student's confidence and inspire them to pursue goals they once believed were impossible. In the future, I hope to mentor women, international students, and others who may not see many people like themselves in engineering. Higher education has opened doors that once seemed impossible for me. Scholarships have played an important role in helping me continue this journey, allowing me to focus on learning, research, and professional growth. They represent more than financial support- they are investments in students who want to create meaningful change. The future I want to build is one where advanced materials make technologies safer and more sustainable, and where education empowers people to reach beyond the limits they once imagined. Through engineering, mentorship, and lifelong learning, I hope to contribute to innovations that improve everyday life while helping others build futures of their own. I believe that the strongest things we build are not only technologies, but also opportunities that continue to benefit generations to come.

When I was growing up in Sri Lanka, I often wondered how the materials around us could make people's lives safer and better. I did not have access to world-class laboratories or advanced research facilities, but I had something just as important-curiosity. Today, as a Ph.D. student in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering at New Mexico Tech, I have realized that the American Dream is not simply the pursuit of success. To me, the American Dream is the opportunity to transform curiosity into discoveries that improve the lives of others. The American Dream is often described as achieving financial success or building a comfortable life through hard work. While those goals are meaningful, I believe the dream is much larger. It is the freedom to pursue knowledge, ask difficult questions, and contribute something meaningful regardless of where you begin. It is the belief that a student from a small island nation can earn a place in a research laboratory and work alongside scientists who are solving real-world problems. My journey has not always been easy. Leaving Sri Lanka meant adapting to a new country, a different education system, and a completely new research environment while being far from my family. Every challenge forced me to become more independent and resilient. Rather than discouraging me, those experiences strengthened my determination to keep learning and growing. Today, my research focuses on understanding how materials behave under extreme conditions, particularly high strain-rate micro-particle impacts and microscopic failure mechanisms. Although my experiments take place in a laboratory, their purpose extends far beyond it. By understanding why materials fail, engineers can design stronger and safer materials for transportation, aerospace, manufacturing, and other technologies that people rely on every day. Knowing that my work may one day contribute to safer lives is what inspires me to continue pursuing research. The American Dream also carries a responsibility to give back. Through organizations such as the Society of Women Engineers and the American Association of University Women, I have had opportunities to encourage and support other students pursuing STEM. I know how valuable guidance and encouragement can be because mentors helped me navigate unfamiliar paths, and I hope to do the same for future students, especially women and international students pursuing engineering. To me, the American Dream is not measured by wealth or status. It is measured by the opportunity to learn, to contribute, and to create opportunities for others. My dream is to use my education to advance materials engineering, improve the safety of future technologies, and inspire young students who, like me, begin their journeys with nothing more than curiosity and the courage to follow it.

Being a first-generation college student means learning to build a future without a map. Every major decision I have made-from choosing a university to pursuing graduate school in another country-has been a path I had to discover on my own. Each new milestone brought unfamiliar questions and decisions, but those experiences taught me resilience, independence, and the confidence to pursue opportunities far beyond what I once imagined. As the first person in my immediate family to pursue higher education, I learned to navigate unfamiliar academic systems through determination, curiosity, and the guidance of mentors I met along the way. Growing up in Sri Lanka, I was always curious about how things worked. I loved science and mathematics, but what fascinated me most was the idea that engineering could solve real problems and improve people's lives. That curiosity led me to earn a bachelor's degree, then a master's degree in Applied Electronics, and eventually pursue a Ph.D. in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering at New Mexico Tech in the United States. Leaving my home country to continue my education was both exciting and challenging. I had to adapt to a new culture, education system, and research environment while living thousands of miles away from my family. There were times when I questioned whether I was making the right decisions, but I learned to seek guidance, embrace challenges, and keep moving forward. Today, my research focuses on understanding how materials behave under extreme conditions, particularly high strain-rate micro-particle impacts and microscopic failure mechanisms. My goal is to help develop stronger, safer, and more reliable materials for applications in aerospace, transportation, manufacturing, and other advanced technologies. I am inspired by the idea that even small scientific discoveries can improve lives. My journey has strengthened my resilience and determination. Every challenge I have faced has motivated me to work harder and continue growing as a researcher, student, and future engineer. Maintaining a good GPA while pursuing my Ph.D. has reinforced my belief that persistence and dedication can overcome even the major obstacles. Beyond academics, I believe success is meaningful when it is shared. Through organizations such as the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and the American Association of University Women (AAUW), I have connected with and encouraged other students in STEM. I understand how valuable encouragement and mentorship can be for students navigating unfamiliar paths. Being a first-generation student is about more than earning a degree. It means creating opportunities that did not exist before and showing my family that education can transform lives. My goal is not only to become a successful materials engineer but also to mentor future students who are beginning journeys similar to mine. Receiving the Bick First Generation Scholarship would ease the financial burden of completing my Ph.D. and allow me to stay focused on my education and research. More importantly, it would affirm that students who create their own paths are worthy of support. I hope my journey inspires other first-generation students to believe that their dreams are possible.

People often ask me why I chose materials engineering. The answer isn't simply that I enjoy science- it is that I have always been curious about how things work and how they can be made better. That curiosity has guided every major decision in my life and ultimately led me from Sri Lanka to a Ph.D. program in the United States. As a child growing up in Sri Lanka, I was fascinated by how things worked. Whether it was a simple household appliance, a science experiment at school, or the changing weather outside, I wanted to understand the reason behind it. That curiosity slowly became a passion for science, and over the years it grew into a dream of becoming an engineer and researcher who could use knowledge to solve real-world problems. That dream has shaped every major decision in my life. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree and later Master's degree in Applied Electronics. My master's research involved designing a two-dimensional ultrasonic anemometer and wind vane capable of accurately measuring wind speed and direction. Before that, I worked as a research assistant developing dye-sensitized solar cells using chlorophyll extracted from plants, an experience that first introduced me to renewable energy research and advanced materials. Those projects taught me something I still carry today. Teaching became another important part of my life. For several years I worked as a teaching assistant, instructor, and visiting lecturer in Sri Lanka. I taught physics, mathematics, laboratory classes, and engineering-related subjects to students from different educational backgrounds. Watching students gradually understand difficult concepts reminded me that education has the power to change lives. Those experiences helped me become a better communicator, a more patient mentor, and someone who genuinely enjoys helping others succeed. Outside the classroom, I wanted to challenge myself in different ways. During my university years I was an active member of the Physics Society, Mathematical and Astronomical Society, University Orchestra, and Art Circle. I also competed in Taekwondo, earning University Colors, championship titles, national medals, and the opportunity to compete at a high level. I even received recognition as Creative Paint Artist of the Year in a national competition. These experiences taught me discipline, teamwork, creativity, and perseverance-qualities that continue to guide me in graduate school today. Eventually, I made one of the biggest decisions of my life. I left my family, friends, and the country where I had spent my entire life to pursue graduate studies in the United States. Starting over in a new country meant adapting to a different culture, educational system, and way of life. It was exciting, but it was also challenging. There were many moments when I questioned whether I was strong enough to continue. Each obstacle, however, reminded me why I had begun this journey in the first place. Today I am pursuing my Ph.D. in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering at New Mexico Tech. My primary research has focused on Laser-Induced Particle Impact Testing (LIPIT), an advanced experimental technique that uses high-energy laser pulses to accelerate microscopic particles at extremely high speeds. By studying how these particles interact with different materials, researchers can better understand impact resistance, material failure, and the mechanical behavior of advanced materials under extreme conditions. This type of research has applications in aerospace, defense, semiconductor manufacturing, and next-generation engineering materials. My work has involved designing experiments, developing testing procedures, selecting suitable materials, reviewing scientific literature, and learning to operate sophisticated characterization equipment such as scanning electron microscopes (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and high-energy laser systems What excites me most is knowing that materials engineering touches nearly every part of modern life. Stronger materials make transportation safer. Better semiconductor materials make electronics faster and more energy efficient. Advances in materials science contribute to renewable energy, medical technology, aerospace, and manufacturing. Every experiment I perform has the potential to contribute, even in a small way, to these larger goals. Throughout my graduate studies, I have continued working hard inside and outside the laboratory. My efforts have been recognized through scholarships such as the Robbie Jones Memorial Scholarship, the AAUW Scholarship, and the Dr. Hassan Homami Memorial Scholarship. Each award has reminded me that someone believes in my potential, and that encouragement has been just as meaningful as the financial support itself. Like many graduate students, I carefully manage my finances. Scholarships have become an essential part of making my education possible. Every dollar awarded reduces financial pressure and allows me to dedicate more time to research, learning, and professional growth. Looking ahead, my goal is to build a career in the semiconductor and advanced materials industry, where I can contribute to technologies that improve everyday life. I hope to continue conducting research, solving practical engineering problems, and helping develop innovative materials that make future technologies more reliable and sustainable. I also hope to continue teaching and mentoring students, because I know how much encouragement from one teacher can influence someone's future. When I think about success, I do not measure it only by degrees, or awards. I measure it by whether my work improves someone else's life. Whether that happens through developing better materials, mentoring a struggling student, or contributing to scientific discovery, I want my career to have a positive and lasting impact. Receiving this scholarship would be more than financial assistance. It would be an investment in someone who has spent years working toward a meaningful goal and who intends to use every opportunity to give back through research, education, and service. I have learned that dreams are achieved one step at a time through curiosity, perseverance, and hard work. My journey from Sri Lanka to a Ph.D. program in the United States is only one chapter of that story, and I am excited for everything that still lies ahead.

When I left Sri Lanka to pursue graduate studies in the United States, I carried two suitcases and a dream that had taken years to build. I knew the journey would not be easy, but I also knew that if I worked hard enough, I could build a future through education and engineering. Today, I am pursuing a Ph.D. in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering at New Mexico Tech. My goal is to become a materials engineer and researcher who helps develop stronger, safer, and more reliable materials for real-world applications. I am fascinated by how materials behave under challenging conditions and how engineering can be used to solve problems that affect everyday life, from manufacturing and transportation to energy and advanced technologies. My path to this point has not been straightforward. Before beginning my Ph.D., I earned a Bachelor of Science degree and later a Master's degree in Sri Lanka. Moving to the United States meant leaving behind my family, my professional network, and the familiarity of home to pursue a bigger dream. There were moments of uncertainty, financial challenges, and setbacks, but each challenge strengthened my determination to continue. One lesson I have learned throughout my life is that dreams become reality only when they are supported by a plan. My plan is simple but ambitious. First, I will complete my Ph.D. by 2029 while continuing to strengthen my research skills and technical expertise. I want to gain deeper knowledge in materials characterization, corrosion, failure analysis, advanced engineering materials, and semiconductor technologies. I also hope to publish research, present my work at professional conferences, and continue growing as both a scientist and an engineer. After graduation, I plan to work in engineering research or the semiconductor industry, where I can apply what I have learned to solve practical problems and contribute to technological advancement. I hope my work will improve the reliability and safety of materials used in critical technologies. As I gain experience, I also hope to mentor young engineers, especially women and international students who may be pursuing dreams similar to mine. I support my education through scholarship, and careful financial planning. Receiving scholarships has been both a financial blessing and a source of encouragement. Awards such as the Robbie Jones Memorial Scholarship and the NMT AAUW Scholarship reminded me that others believe in my potential and my goals. Each scholarship has reduced financial stress and allowed me to focus more fully on my education and research. The resources I need to achieve my goals include continued access to research facilities, faculty mentorship, professional development opportunities, and scholarship support. Every investment in my education helps me move one step closer to becoming the engineer and researcher I aspire to be. When I look back at my journey-from Sri Lanka to pursuing a Ph.D. in the United States-I feel grateful for every challenge that has shaped me. At the same time, I know there is still much work ahead. I have a clear plan, a strong work ethic, and a genuine passion for engineering. With continued dedication and support, I am confident that I can turn my goals into meaningful contributions that benefit both my profession and society. The motto "Plan Your Work, Work Your Plan" reflects how I have approached every stage of my journey. I have built a plan for my future, and every day I am working to make it a reality.

My connection to India is both personal and deeply meaningful. I am a U.S. Permanent Resident currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering at New Mexico Tech, and my grandmother was born in South India before our family eventually made its home in Sri Lanka. Growing up in Sri Lanka, I was surrounded by stories that connected our island to India. One story that stayed with me from childhood was the story of Prince Vijaya and Kuweni. Whether viewed as history or legend, it reflects the long-standing connection between Sri Lanka and India. For me, that connection is more than a story. It is part of my own family history through my grandmother, whose life began in India before our family roots spread across Sri Lanka. I grew up in a middle-class family that placed enormous value on education. My parents taught me that opportunities are created through hard work, persistence, and a willingness to keep moving forward even when the path is uncertain. Those lessons shaped every step of my journey. As a young girl, I was always curious about how things worked. That curiosity eventually led me toward science and engineering. Today, it has brought me halfway around the world to the United States, where I am pursuing a Ph.D. in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering. Today, my doctoral research focuses on understanding how materials behave under extreme conditions and how engineers can develop stronger and more reliable materials for future technologies. The journey has not always been easy. Starting over in a new country required courage, adaptability, and determination. There were moments of uncertainty, but every challenge strengthened my belief that education has the power to transform lives. Throughout my academic journey, I have participated in volunteer activities, community events, student organizations, and efforts that support fellow students. I believe success becomes more meaningful when it can be shared with others. One of the challenges I currently face is funding my continued doctoral studies. While I have worked hard to maintain strong academic performance and currently hold a 3.63 GPA in my doctoral program, I do not currently have a graduate assistantship for the upcoming academic semesters. As a result, I am actively seeking scholarships and other funding opportunities to help me continue my education and research. Receiving scholarship support would help cover educational and living expenses while allowing me to remain focused on completing my degree and contributing to my field. Receiving the Neetu Watumull Scholarship would be especially meaningful because it recognizes students of Indian heritage pursuing higher education in the United States. Through my grandmother's roots in South India, I carry a connection to that heritage, while my life journey reflects the cultural ties that have existed between India and Sri Lanka for generations. My family's connection to India has long been a source of pride and inspiration. I hope to honor that heritage through education, meaningful research, and a lifelong commitment to helping others.

I was born and raised in Panadura, Sri Lanka, a city often known as "Bauddha Purawaraya" (the City of Buddhism) because of its strong Buddhist heritage. Buddhism has been part of my life for generations. My parents, grandparents, and relatives have all practiced Buddhism, and I grew up in an environment where Buddhist values were a natural part of everyday life. From childhood, I participated in many Buddhist activities with my family. We regularly visited the temple, offered Buddha Puja, worshipped the Twenty-Eight Buddha Statues, participated in Katina Pinkama, and joined Vesak celebrations (Buddha Day celebrations). During Vesak, my family contributed to alms stall and other community activities that brought people together through generosity and kindness. These experiences taught me that Buddhism is not only about personal faith but also about compassion, generosity, and helping others. Even today, while pursuing my PhD in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering in the United States, Buddhism remains an important part of my daily life. I worship the Buddha every day, light an oil lamp, observe the Five Precepts, and practice Maitri Bhavana meditation. Whenever I find free time, I listen to Buddhist sermons and teachings. These help me maintain a calm mind and remind me to approach life with compassion, patience, and gratitude. One Buddhist teaching that deeply influences me is the understanding that our lives are like a stay at an “Ambalama”, a temporary resting place along the long journey of “Sansaraya” (the cycle of birth and rebirth). This perspective reminds me that our time in this life is limited and precious. Because of this, I believe we should use our lives wisely, help others whenever possible, and strive to leave the world better than we found it. While we continue our journey through Sansaraya, we should strive to reduce suffering for ourselves and others and move closer to Nibbana, the ultimate freedom from suffering. This understanding is closely connected to another Buddhist teaching that guides my life, "ලද දෙයින් සතුටුවන්න" (being content with what we have). In a world where people constantly compare themselves to others, this teaching reminds me to be grateful for what I have, appreciate the opportunities I receive, and find inner peace even during difficult times. Another important part of my faith is the value of Kalyana Mittata, spiritual friendship. In Buddhism, the Sangha is considered a Kalyana Mithura- a noble friend who helps guide us toward the right path. Having the guidance of the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha helps me make thoughtful decisions and remain focused on what truly matters in life. I am also trying to deepen my understanding of the Four Noble Truths (Chathurarya Sathya), which explain the nature of suffering and the path toward liberation. These teachings remind me that material success alone is not the ultimate goal of life. Rather, we should cultivate wisdom, compassion, and ethical conduct while helping other living beings. These values have shaped my future goals. Through my education and research, I hope to contribute to society and improve people's lives. I also hope to support and mentor students who face challenges in pursuing higher education. My goal is not only to build a successful career but also to make a positive difference in the world. Whether through research, education, community service, or simple acts of kindness, I hope to reduce suffering and help others during my short stay in this life. The values of compassion, mindfulness, gratitude, and service that I learned growing up in Panadura continue to guide me every day, and I hope to honor them by giving back to society and helping those in need.

Growing up in Sri Lanka, I was always curious about how things worked. As a child, I enjoyed science and mathematics, but I was especially fascinated by materials, machines, and how engineering could improve people’s lives. I did not grow up surrounded by advanced technology or research opportunities, so I learned to observe, question, and solve problems creatively with the resources available to me. Over time, that curiosity developed into a passion for engineering and eventually led me to pursue a Ph.D. in Materials and Metallurgical Engineering at New Mexico Tech in the United States. My academic journey has not been straightforward. I initially entered graduate studies through Physics, but over time I realized that I wanted to apply scientific principles more directly to real-world engineering challenges. That realization motivated my transition into Materials and Metallurgical Engineering. I became deeply interested in understanding how materials behave under extreme conditions and how engineering research can improve safety, reliability, and sustainability in modern technologies. My research focuses on material behavior under high strain-rate conditions, particularly micro-particle impacts and microscopic failure mechanisms. I am especially interested in how materials respond in extreme environments and how this knowledge can improve systems used in aerospace, manufacturing, transportation, and protective technologies. Even a small material failure in these environments can lead to serious consequences. Understanding these behaviors can help engineers design safer and more reliable materials for future technologies. Before joining my current Ph.D. program, I worked on solar-energy-related research at the Open University of Sri Lanka, where I studied dye-sensitized semiconductor materials for solar-cell applications. That experience strengthened my interest in sustainable engineering and showed me how materials research can contribute to solving global challenges. Later, during my master’s degree in Applied Electronics at the University of Colombo, I designed and developed a 2-D ultrasonic anemometer and wind vane weather-parameter measuring system. Through these experiences, I realized that engineering is about creating solutions that improve safety and quality of life. Coming to the United States as a first-generation immigrant student was one of the biggest transitions of my life. I had to adapt to a completely new educational system, research culture, and environment while balancing financial pressure and the challenges of graduate school. Although the journey was difficult, those experiences strengthened my resilience and determination. They also taught me the importance of mentorship and supportive academic communities. Dr. Hassan Homami’s story deeply resonates with me because he believed in education, lifelong learning, and helping others while pursuing his own goals. Like him, I understand the challenges of balancing responsibilities and higher education while continuing to move forward with purpose. His dedication to mentorship is especially meaningful to me because I know how important guidance and encouragement can be for students who sometimes feel isolated in engineering environments. Throughout my journey, I have tried to support and encourage other students whenever possible, especially women and international students in STEM. Through organizations such as AAUW and SWE, I have connected with communities that promote educational access and support women in engineering. Recently, I was honored to receive both the Robbie Jones Memorial Scholarship and the NMT-AAUW Scholarship, which encouraged me to continue pursuing my goals despite financial and personal challenges. My long-term goal is to continue expanding my knowledge in materials engineering while contributing to research that improves the safety and reliability of advanced technologies. At the same time, I hope to mentor and encourage future students from underrepresented and immigrant backgrounds. I want my work to combine technical innovation, resilience, and mentorship in the same spirit that Dr. Hassan demonstrated throughout his life.

My name is Chamindri Sulakshi Hemendra, and I am a Ph.D. student in Materials Engineering at New Mexico Tech. Long before I ever set foot in the United States, I started living the American Dream. It all started in Sri Lanka, where I first became interested in science and where I first saw how important education can be. As a student, I was always interested in how the materials we use in our daily lives affect the technologies we use. I often thought about becoming a researcher who could look into those ideas and help make new discoveries in science. But there weren't many chances for me to do advanced research in my home country, and that dream sometimes seemed out of reach. Coming to the United States to continue my education made that far-off dream come true. The American Dream is being able to turn your curiosity into knowledge and your hard work into something that matters. It is the idea that someone who starts their journey on a small island thousands of miles away can do scientific research and help researchers all over the world. My family in Sri Lanka really valued education when I was growing up. I've always been interested in science and how materials change the world around us, from simple technologies to more complex engineering uses. I used to be curious about how scientists find new materials and come up with ways to improve people's lives. But in my home country, there weren't many chances to do advanced research or work in cutting-edge labs. I was still very curious, but I knew that to become a researcher, I would have to leave the life I was used to. That step eventually took me to the United States to finish my education. Moving to a new country was both exciting and hard. I had to get used to a new school, a new culture, and the fact that I was going to have to make a life for myself far away from my family and home. But every problem made me more determined. Every new thing I did reminded me of why I chose this path in the first place. I am a research assistant and am working on my PhD in Materials Engineering. My research is about finding out how materials behave under extreme conditions. Every day in the lab reminds me that it takes time, effort, and working together to learn new things about science. I really appreciate being able to work somewhere that encourages curiosity and new ideas. For me, the American Dream is more than just getting ahead in life. It means having opportunities that help people grow, do good things, and inspire others. I've learned more through school, worked with smart researchers, and looked into questions that I thought were impossible to answer. I've also met other students through groups like the Society of Women Engineers and the American Association of University Women, in addition to my research. These groups help and mentor women who work in STEM fields. These experiences have taught me that the American Dream isn't just about getting ahead on your own; it's also about helping others along the way. I don't think that money or power are what the American Dream is all about. Instead, it is defined by the idea that hard work, determination, and learning can make things that seemed impossible possible. This is possible because I went from Sri Lanka to the USA. The American Dream isn't just a dream; every step I take in my research and education shows me that.