My initial spark for engineering didn't come from a textbook or a classroom but from a persistent, real-world frustration: traffic congestion and inefficient public transit in my hometown, Nairobi. I remember sitting in a bus one hot afternoon, stuck in traffic, and thinking about the tremendous waste: wasted fuel, wasted time, and the stress it caused everyone. Simultaneously, I watched as new and expensive (to the taxpayers and the environment) infrastructure projects were implemented but often failed to solve the underlying issues, sometimes even making them worse. This contradiction: the necessity of movement versus the failure of the system to facilitate it, captivated me. I realized that solving these complex problems required more than just building highways; it demanded a deep, systemic understanding of human behavior, urban planning, data analysis, and structural integrity. Engineering, particularly civil and transportation engineering, was the discipline that offered the toolkit to address this massive societal challenge. While the entire field excites me, I am most energized by two specific, interconnected areas: Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and Data Analytics. This involves using sensors, real-time data, machine learning, and connectivity to optimize traffic flow, improve safety, and enhance the user experience. I am fascinated by the idea of a responsive, adaptive road network that can predict bottlenecks and adjust signal timing dynamically. My other area of interest is sustainable and resilient public transit infrastructure: my ultimate goal is to design public transit systems that are so efficient, reliable, and comfortable that they become the preferred mode of travel for most urban (and rural) dwellers in the United States. This includes exploring high-capacity solutions (like high-speed rail or advanced metro systems) and incorporating resilient design to withstand the impacts of climate change. My plan for growth and impact is structured around maximizing my current master's studies in transportation systems and transitioning these specialized skills into practical, impactful post-graduation work, mirroring the continuous dedication of a visionary like Dr. Hassan. Transportation systems are sociotechnical challenges. I am actively seeking collaborations with departments in Computer Science (for data science/AI applications) and Public Policy to understand the regulatory and funding landscape necessary for system-wide adoption of new technologies. I believe infrastructure should serve all citizens. I plan to use my specialized transportation modeling and planning skills to consult for municipal governments or non-profits on optimizing transit routes. The focus will be on improving first-mile/last-mile connectivity and reducing commuting times for underserved communities and low-income workers, ensuring equitable access to opportunities. Like Dr. Hassan, my commitment is to ethical, rigorous, and impactful engineering. I am committed not just to solving the problems of today but to designing the systems of tomorrow with foresight and responsibility. The challenge of building better transportation is immense, but the opportunity to positively shape millions of lives is the compelling force behind my dedication.