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Submission information
Submission Number: 493
Submission ID: 1636
Submission UUID: 1edeec27-b195-4161-a87e-0db84bc45f3a
Submission URI:/center/mortenson/form/webform-1367
Created: Thu, 03/20/2025 - 20:51
Completed: Thu, 03/20/2025 - 20:51
Changed: Fri, 04/18/2025 - 16:32
Remote IP address: 73.243.136.11
Submitted by:Anonymous
Language: English
Is draft: No
Flagged: Yes
{Empty}
Selma
Youssef
she/her
Denver
Colorado
United States
80238
Biomedical Engineering
English - 5, Arabic - 3, Urdu - 1
Travel and cultural experiences have played a crucial role in shaping my perspective and preparing me for the Global Engineering RAP. Moving to Colorado when I was seven was my first major exposure to change. Initially, it was difficult to adjust, and I missed my old home. However, over time, I adapted, in Colorado I found my love for skiing and formed friendships that helped me feel more like I belonged in Colorado. This experience taught me resilience, flexibility, and how to embrace new environments—an essential skill for global engineering.
Traveling to Mexico multiple times, including during the pandemic, made me appreciate different cultures. Beyond the beautiful landscapes and vibrant traditions, what stood out most was the warmth and kindness of the people. Their resilience and strong sense of community was very moving to me, and I strive to embody these values in my own life. Through these experiences, I’ve learned that engineering solutions must be developed with an understanding of the people they serve, respecting cultural traditions and social dynamics.
Visiting Istanbul, Turkey, gave me a deeper appreciation for history and cultural diversity. The city felt overwhelming at first, with its bustling streets and rich history, but I soon grew to love it. What left the biggest impression on me was the kindness and generosity of the people. I also noticed how well the city cared for its street animals, which reflected their cultural value of compassion. This experience reinforced my belief that communities should be at the heart of any engineering project—understanding and integrating their values is essential to making a lasting impact.
Cappadocia, Turkey, was a completely different experience. Unlike the fast-paced nature of Istanbul, Cappadocia was peaceful, with beautiful landscapes and a serene atmosphere. The slower pace of life there taught me the importance of mindfulness and observing my surroundings—an important trait for engineers working on global projects that require careful planning and cultural awareness.
New York City has been another influential place in my life. Spending summers and winters there with my grandparents exposed me to a different way of life. New York is diverse, energetic, and fast-paced, and while many people perceive New Yorkers as unfriendly, I have found them to be some of the most helpful and resilient individuals. Their directness and willingness to support one another has shown me that leadership isn’t just about taking charge—it’s also about standing up for others, solving problems collaboratively, and embracing diverse perspectives.
Even places I haven’t visited yet, like Japan and Vietnam, have influenced my perspective through the stories I’ve heard. Japan’s emphasis on cleanliness, efficiency, and respect for others has always intrigued me, and I admire how these values shape daily life there. Vietnam, a place my mom has visited and shared many stories about, is known for its friendliness and fast-paced energy. These stories have made me eager to travel even more and experience different ways of living firsthand.
Each of these experiences has shaped my understanding of the world, showing me the importance of cultural awareness, adaptability, and empathy. I’ve learned that engineering is not just about technical solutions—it’s about understanding people, their values, and their environments. The Global Engineering RAP will allow me to continue exploring these perspectives, working with diverse teams to create solutions that are both innovative and culturally respectful. My travels and experiences have given me a strong foundation for this program, and I am eager to continue learning from others and contributing my own perspectives to global challenges.
Traveling to Mexico multiple times, including during the pandemic, made me appreciate different cultures. Beyond the beautiful landscapes and vibrant traditions, what stood out most was the warmth and kindness of the people. Their resilience and strong sense of community was very moving to me, and I strive to embody these values in my own life. Through these experiences, I’ve learned that engineering solutions must be developed with an understanding of the people they serve, respecting cultural traditions and social dynamics.
Visiting Istanbul, Turkey, gave me a deeper appreciation for history and cultural diversity. The city felt overwhelming at first, with its bustling streets and rich history, but I soon grew to love it. What left the biggest impression on me was the kindness and generosity of the people. I also noticed how well the city cared for its street animals, which reflected their cultural value of compassion. This experience reinforced my belief that communities should be at the heart of any engineering project—understanding and integrating their values is essential to making a lasting impact.
Cappadocia, Turkey, was a completely different experience. Unlike the fast-paced nature of Istanbul, Cappadocia was peaceful, with beautiful landscapes and a serene atmosphere. The slower pace of life there taught me the importance of mindfulness and observing my surroundings—an important trait for engineers working on global projects that require careful planning and cultural awareness.
New York City has been another influential place in my life. Spending summers and winters there with my grandparents exposed me to a different way of life. New York is diverse, energetic, and fast-paced, and while many people perceive New Yorkers as unfriendly, I have found them to be some of the most helpful and resilient individuals. Their directness and willingness to support one another has shown me that leadership isn’t just about taking charge—it’s also about standing up for others, solving problems collaboratively, and embracing diverse perspectives.
Even places I haven’t visited yet, like Japan and Vietnam, have influenced my perspective through the stories I’ve heard. Japan’s emphasis on cleanliness, efficiency, and respect for others has always intrigued me, and I admire how these values shape daily life there. Vietnam, a place my mom has visited and shared many stories about, is known for its friendliness and fast-paced energy. These stories have made me eager to travel even more and experience different ways of living firsthand.
Each of these experiences has shaped my understanding of the world, showing me the importance of cultural awareness, adaptability, and empathy. I’ve learned that engineering is not just about technical solutions—it’s about understanding people, their values, and their environments. The Global Engineering RAP will allow me to continue exploring these perspectives, working with diverse teams to create solutions that are both innovative and culturally respectful. My travels and experiences have given me a strong foundation for this program, and I am eager to continue learning from others and contributing my own perspectives to global challenges.
Global experiences and perspectives are essential to improving the field of engineering because they encourage innovation, adaptability, and solutions that are both culturally and environmentally sustainable. Engineering does not exist in isolation—it impacts communities worldwide, and understanding diverse perspectives helps create solutions that truly meet people’s needs. Through my own experiences traveling and learning about different cultures, I’ve come to appreciate how engineering is shaped by the unique challenges and values of each society.
For example, my travels to Mexico have shown me the importance of community-driven solutions. Despite economic disparities, I have seen how people come together to support one another, and this has influenced my interest in making healthcare more equitable. Engineering plays a crucial role in this, from designing better medical devices to improving infrastructure for hospitals and clinics. By understanding how different communities approach healthcare, engineers can develop technologies that are not only effective but also accessible and culturally appropriate.
Visiting Istanbul exposed me to the intersection of history and modern engineering. Seeing structures like the Hagia Sophia, which has withstood centuries of earthquakes, made me think about the importance of integrating historical knowledge with modern technology. It also reinforced the idea that engineering is not just about building new things but also about preserving and improving what already exists. This perspective is valuable when considering global engineering projects, as solutions must respect cultural heritage while also embracing innovation.
Even in places I haven’t been to yet, like Japan, I have learned about the country’s emphasis on precision, cleanliness, and efficiency. Japan’s approach to engineering—whether in public transportation, earthquake-resistant buildings, or sustainable city planning—demonstrates how a country’s values shape its engineering advancements. These ideas make me think about how sustainability and efficiency can be prioritized in all engineering projects, regardless of location.
Global experiences also highlight the importance of adaptability in engineering. Different regions face different challenges, from natural disasters to resource scarcity. Engineers who understand these challenges through firsthand experience or cross-cultural collaboration can develop better solutions tailored to specific communities. For example, learning about Vietnam’s rapid urbanization and the infrastructure challenges that come with it has made me interested in how engineers can create affordable and sustainable solutions for growing cities.
My interest in healthcare equity ties directly to the need for a global perspective in engineering. Medical advancements are not always evenly distributed, and access to life-saving technologies should not depend on where someone is born. By studying how different countries approach healthcare challenges, engineers can create solutions that bridge these gaps. Whether it’s designing portable diagnostic tools for rural areas or improving water sanitation systems to prevent disease, engineering has the power to transform, improve, and save lives.
Ultimately, global experiences and perspectives make engineering more inclusive, ethical, and effective. Engineers who engage with different cultures and challenges can create solutions that work not just in one place, but in many. As I continue my journey in engineering, I want to incorporate these lessons—ensuring that my work is informed by diverse perspectives, driven by real-world needs, and designed to make a meaningful impact on communities around the world.
For example, my travels to Mexico have shown me the importance of community-driven solutions. Despite economic disparities, I have seen how people come together to support one another, and this has influenced my interest in making healthcare more equitable. Engineering plays a crucial role in this, from designing better medical devices to improving infrastructure for hospitals and clinics. By understanding how different communities approach healthcare, engineers can develop technologies that are not only effective but also accessible and culturally appropriate.
Visiting Istanbul exposed me to the intersection of history and modern engineering. Seeing structures like the Hagia Sophia, which has withstood centuries of earthquakes, made me think about the importance of integrating historical knowledge with modern technology. It also reinforced the idea that engineering is not just about building new things but also about preserving and improving what already exists. This perspective is valuable when considering global engineering projects, as solutions must respect cultural heritage while also embracing innovation.
Even in places I haven’t been to yet, like Japan, I have learned about the country’s emphasis on precision, cleanliness, and efficiency. Japan’s approach to engineering—whether in public transportation, earthquake-resistant buildings, or sustainable city planning—demonstrates how a country’s values shape its engineering advancements. These ideas make me think about how sustainability and efficiency can be prioritized in all engineering projects, regardless of location.
Global experiences also highlight the importance of adaptability in engineering. Different regions face different challenges, from natural disasters to resource scarcity. Engineers who understand these challenges through firsthand experience or cross-cultural collaboration can develop better solutions tailored to specific communities. For example, learning about Vietnam’s rapid urbanization and the infrastructure challenges that come with it has made me interested in how engineers can create affordable and sustainable solutions for growing cities.
My interest in healthcare equity ties directly to the need for a global perspective in engineering. Medical advancements are not always evenly distributed, and access to life-saving technologies should not depend on where someone is born. By studying how different countries approach healthcare challenges, engineers can create solutions that bridge these gaps. Whether it’s designing portable diagnostic tools for rural areas or improving water sanitation systems to prevent disease, engineering has the power to transform, improve, and save lives.
Ultimately, global experiences and perspectives make engineering more inclusive, ethical, and effective. Engineers who engage with different cultures and challenges can create solutions that work not just in one place, but in many. As I continue my journey in engineering, I want to incorporate these lessons—ensuring that my work is informed by diverse perspectives, driven by real-world needs, and designed to make a meaningful impact on communities around the world.
I want to be a member of the Global Engineering RAP at Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder because it aligns perfectly with my passion for cultural exchange, global perspectives, and using engineering to address real-world challenges, particularly in healthcare equity. Throughout my travels, I have witnessed firsthand how different communities approach problem-solving and resilience, which has shaped my desire to be an engineer who creates solutions that are both innovative and inclusive. Being part of this community will give me the opportunity to learn from like-minded peers and faculty who share an interest in global engineering, and I know that these conversations will push me to think about how engineering impacts diverse populations.
One of the most valuable aspects of the Global Engineering RAP is the opportunity to integrate global perspectives into my engineering education. I have seen how access to healthcare varies drastically between regions, and I want to design engineering solutions that help bridge these disparities, particularly for children. My experiences volunteering with The Citizens Foundation, VIP Fund, and organizations like Make-A-Wish and the Children’s Hospital have shown me how even small interventions can make a difference, but they have also made me realize how much work still needs to be done. I believe that learning about different healthcare systems and infrastructure challenges through the Global Engineering RAP will provide me with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to this field.
Beyond healthcare, my travels to places like Mexico and Turkey have reinforced my appreciation for how different cultures shape engineering solutions. Through my travels, I have learned that engineering is deeply tied to the values and needs of each society. I want to bring this mindset to Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder by engaging in discussions and projects that prioritize sustainability, accessibility, and cultural sensitivity in engineering design.
Personally, I plan to contribute to the Global Engineering RAP by sharing my own experiences and perspectives while also learning from my peers. My diverse background and experiences have taught me the value of open-mindedness and collaboration, and I thrive in environments where people challenge each other to grow. I enjoy engaging in deep conversations about real-world issues and finding ways to take action, whether through service projects, research, or outreach initiatives. I would love to collaborate with my peers to explore solutions for making healthcare technology more accessible in underserved communities, possibly through interdisciplinary projects or partnerships with organizations working in global health.
Additionally, I believe that community-building is just as important as academics, and I look forward to contributing to the social aspect of the RAP as well. Whether it’s helping to organize cultural exchange events, assisting fellow students in adjusting to the program, or simply being someone who supports and uplifts others, I want to help create an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone feels valued.
Ultimately, the Global Engineering RAP offers exactly what I am looking for in my college experience—a space where I can merge my passion for engineering with my commitment to global impact. It will give me the opportunity to grow as both an engineer and a person by exposing me to diverse perspectives, challenging me to think critically about the role of engineering in the world, and providing a community of peers who share my dedication to making a difference. I am excited about the opportunity to be part of this program and to contribute in ways that extend beyond the classroom, ensuring that my education is not just about technical knowledge, but also about meaningful, real-world impact.
One of the most valuable aspects of the Global Engineering RAP is the opportunity to integrate global perspectives into my engineering education. I have seen how access to healthcare varies drastically between regions, and I want to design engineering solutions that help bridge these disparities, particularly for children. My experiences volunteering with The Citizens Foundation, VIP Fund, and organizations like Make-A-Wish and the Children’s Hospital have shown me how even small interventions can make a difference, but they have also made me realize how much work still needs to be done. I believe that learning about different healthcare systems and infrastructure challenges through the Global Engineering RAP will provide me with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to this field.
Beyond healthcare, my travels to places like Mexico and Turkey have reinforced my appreciation for how different cultures shape engineering solutions. Through my travels, I have learned that engineering is deeply tied to the values and needs of each society. I want to bring this mindset to Â鶹Ãâ·Ñ°æÏÂÔØBoulder by engaging in discussions and projects that prioritize sustainability, accessibility, and cultural sensitivity in engineering design.
Personally, I plan to contribute to the Global Engineering RAP by sharing my own experiences and perspectives while also learning from my peers. My diverse background and experiences have taught me the value of open-mindedness and collaboration, and I thrive in environments where people challenge each other to grow. I enjoy engaging in deep conversations about real-world issues and finding ways to take action, whether through service projects, research, or outreach initiatives. I would love to collaborate with my peers to explore solutions for making healthcare technology more accessible in underserved communities, possibly through interdisciplinary projects or partnerships with organizations working in global health.
Additionally, I believe that community-building is just as important as academics, and I look forward to contributing to the social aspect of the RAP as well. Whether it’s helping to organize cultural exchange events, assisting fellow students in adjusting to the program, or simply being someone who supports and uplifts others, I want to help create an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone feels valued.
Ultimately, the Global Engineering RAP offers exactly what I am looking for in my college experience—a space where I can merge my passion for engineering with my commitment to global impact. It will give me the opportunity to grow as both an engineer and a person by exposing me to diverse perspectives, challenging me to think critically about the role of engineering in the world, and providing a community of peers who share my dedication to making a difference. I am excited about the opportunity to be part of this program and to contribute in ways that extend beyond the classroom, ensuring that my education is not just about technical knowledge, but also about meaningful, real-world impact.
Resume (1).pdf(101.78 KB)