Learning without Borders
The moment I realized that I was absolutely in love with my Columbia Engineering experience occurred under bright lights in our nation’s capital (though sadly I wish it had been in NYC!). The group that I had dedicated much of my college career to—Columbia’s Engineers Without Borders—had just been selected as finalist for the EPA’s prestigious People, Planet, and Prosperity competition and while I standing on stage to accept the award, in the excitement and daze of that event, I realized that that moment could only have been made possible for me by Columbia SEAS experience. Where else would I at the age of 18 become so intent on having a profound impact on the world that by sophomore year had grown into a deep connection and service to a community in Uganda? And at what other engineering school would we sit around and debate the merits of international development work while pondering our accountability and connectedness with the communities we were working in? Where else would I have learned to orient my technical skills and aptitude towards positive impact, creative solutions, and global leadership? What I loved the most about SEAS was that your best experiences were rarely ever in a classroom or laboratory—in fact, from day one you’re encouraged to get out, find something that you’re passionate about, and make a difference not just on our campus but in the world. A lesson that has forever changed my ambitions, career, and life.