Growing up in Washington, D.C., I witnessed firsthand the challenges of urban infrastructure. From crumbling roads to constant construction projects and frustrating traffic delays, the city’s built environment has always been a focal point of daily life. While these issues can be frustrating, they also sparked my curiosity about how cities function and how engineers design and maintain critical infrastructure. Over time, I came to appreciate the profound impact that engineering has on shaping communities, influencing everything from transportation efficiency to residents’ quality of life. My hands-on experience in engineering began in high school, where I took courses such as Principles of Engineering, Introduction to Engineering Design, and Aerospace Engineering. These classes provided a strong technical foundation and introduced me to problem-solving approaches used in the field. I also had the opportunity to intern with Raytheon Technologies for a month, where I gained insight into the engineering profession and its real-world applications. Additionally, I have developed skills in MATLAB, Excel, Microbit coding, and SolidWorks—tools that will be essential in my future studies and career. Beyond the technical aspects, my passion for engineering is deeply tied to my commitment to social equity. Growing up in D.C., I have seen how infrastructure disparities disproportionately affect underserved communities—whether through poorly maintained roads, limited public transportation access, or outdated public facilities. These inequities fuel my desire to work on projects that prioritize accessibility, sustainability, and fairness. Engineering, to me, is not just about building structures; it’s about creating inclusive spaces that improve lives. My involvement in community service has reinforced this perspective. Contributing to projects like building playgrounds and community gardens in underserved neighborhoods has shown me the tangible impact of well-designed infrastructure. Thoughtful engineering has the power to bring people together, foster community engagement, and enhance overall well-being. As I enter my sophomore year as a Civil Engineering major at Temple University in Fall 2025, I am eager to further develop my skills and apply them to real-world challenges. My ultimate goal is to help build resilient, sustainable, and equitable cities. Washington, D.C.—a city that blends historical significance with modern infrastructure challenges—has shaped my vision as an engineer. I aspire to contribute to projects that not only improve the physical landscape of cities but also uplift the communities within them. By combining my technical expertise with a passion for social responsibility, I hope to play a key role in shaping the future of urban infrastructure and making cities more livable for generations to come.

I am considering engineering as a career path because of my city and where I am from. I have lived in Washington, D.C., my whole life, and as I grew older, I noticed that there were always issues with the roads, buildings, and the city's infrastructure. The frequent construction projects and traffic delays, while sometimes frustrating, sparked my interest in how things are built and maintained. Observing the intricate interplay between urban development and the daily lives of residents made me realize the vital role engineers play in shaping our cities. Some Hands-on engineering experience that I have are from some engineering classes I took while in High School. I have participated in the following courses Principles of Enigineering, Introduction to Engineering Design, and Aerospace Engineering. I have also Participated in 1 month internship with Raytheon Technologies learning more about engineering and what exactly engineers do. In the fall of 2024, I will be majoring in Civil Engineering at Temple University. In addition, witnessing the impact of social equity issues in urban environments has solidified my desire to pursue engineering. Infrastructure inequities, such as poorly maintained roads in underserved neighborhoods or limited access to public transport, can significantly affect residents' quality of life. I aspire to work on projects that enhance access and equity, ensuring that all communities benefit from well-designed infrastructure. This commitment to social responsibility is integral to my vision of what it means to be an engineer. Furthermore, my experiences volunteering in community service projects have given me a deeper appreciation for the tangible difference that engineering can make. Helping to build playgrounds and community gardens in underserved areas has shown me firsthand how thoughtful design can create spaces that foster community engagement and well-being. These experiences have strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in engineering, where I can combine technical skills with a passion for community service. In conclusion, my lifelong experience in Washington, D.C., has profoundly shaped my desire to pursue engineering. The city’s unique blend of historical significance and modern challenges presents an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact. As I consider the role of engineers in creating resilient, sustainable, and equitable urban environments, I am inspired to contribute to a future where cities can thrive for generations to come. I believe that by becoming an engineer, I can play a key role in addressing the infrastructure challenges facing my city and ultimately improve the quality of life for its residents.

I am considering engineering as a career path because of my city and where I am from. Also I come from a background of having financial struggles between my parents so I didnt always get what i wantted in life. I have lived in Washington, D.C., my whole life, and as I grew older, I noticed that there were always issues with the roads, buildings, and the city's infrastructure. The frequent construction projects and traffic delays, while sometimes frustrating, sparked my interest in how things are built and maintained. Observing the intricate interplay between urban development and the daily lives of residents made me realize the vital role engineers play in shaping our cities. Some Hands-on engineering experience that I have are from some engineering classes I took while in High School. I have participated in the following courses Principles of Enigineering, Introduction to Engineering Design, and Aerospace Engineering. I have also Participated in 1 month internship with Raytheon Technologies learning more about engineering and what exactly engineers do. In the fall of 2024, I will be majoring in Civil Engineering at Temple University. In addition, witnessing the impact of social equity issues in urban environments has solidified my desire to pursue engineering. Infrastructure inequities, such as poorly maintained roads in underserved neighborhoods or limited access to public transport, can significantly affect residents' quality of life. I aspire to work on projects that enhance access and equity, ensuring that all communities benefit from well-designed infrastructure. This commitment to social responsibility is integral to my vision of what it means to be an engineer. Furthermore, my experiences volunteering in community service projects have given me a deeper appreciation for the tangible difference that engineering can make. Helping to build playgrounds and community gardens in underserved areas has shown me firsthand how thoughtful design can create spaces that foster community engagement and well-being. These experiences have strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in engineering, where I can combine technical skills with a passion for community service. In conclusion, my lifelong experience in Washington, D.C., has profoundly shaped my desire to pursue engineering. The city’s unique blend of historical significance and modern challenges presents an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact. As I consider the role of engineers in creating resilient, sustainable, and equitable urban environments, I am inspired to contribute to a future where cities can thrive for generations to come. I believe that by becoming an engineer, I can play a key role in addressing the infrastructure challenges facing my city and ultimately improve the quality of life for its residents.

I am considering engineering as a career path because of my city and where I am from. I have lived in Washington, D.C., my whole life, and as I grew older, I noticed that there were always issues with the roads, buildings, and the city's infrastructure. The frequent construction projects and traffic delays, while sometimes frustrating, sparked my interest in how things are built and maintained. Observing the intricate interplay between urban development and the daily lives of residents made me realize the vital role engineers play in shaping our cities. Some Hands-on engineering experience that I have are from some engineering classes I took while in High School. I have participated in the following courses Principles of Enigineering, Introduction to Engineering Design, and Aerospace Engineering. I have also Participated in 1 month internship with Raytheon Technologies learning more about engineering and what exactly engineers do. In the fall of 2024, I will be majoring in Civil Engineering at Temple University. In addition, witnessing the impact of social equity issues in urban environments has solidified my desire to pursue engineering. Infrastructure inequities, such as poorly maintained roads in underserved neighborhoods or limited access to public transport, can significantly affect residents' quality of life. I aspire to work on projects that enhance access and equity, ensuring that all communities benefit from well-designed infrastructure. This commitment to social responsibility is integral to my vision of what it means to be an engineer. Furthermore, my experiences volunteering in community service projects have given me a deeper appreciation for the tangible difference that engineering can make. Helping to build playgrounds and community gardens in underserved areas has shown me firsthand how thoughtful design can create spaces that foster community engagement and well-being. These experiences have strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in engineering, where I can combine technical skills with a passion for community service. In conclusion, my lifelong experience in Washington, D.C., has profoundly shaped my desire to pursue engineering. The city’s unique blend of historical significance and modern challenges presents an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact. As I consider the role of engineers in creating resilient, sustainable, and equitable urban environments, I am inspired to contribute to a future where cities can thrive for generations to come. I believe that by becoming an engineer, I can play a key role in addressing the infrastructure challenges facing my city and ultimately improve the quality of life for its residents.

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