Kovin, known as Kevin by family and friends, thanks the school for the opportunity to pursue his passion in design and the engineering sciences. He is glad to have had the support of his loved ones during his time at the University of California, Merced, and the help of all the faculty here that pushed him to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. As a first-generation immigrant, Kevin’s family placed a large emphasis on higher education. A large motivation for his success came from the sacrifices his grandparents and parents made to provide him with the opportunity to be the first in his family to attend college. As an Assyrian-American, he wishes to use any success that may come his way to empower his fellow Assyrians. Kevin co-founded the Assyrian Association of the University of California, Merced, where he organized Assyrian students on campus to exchange culture and language and build unifying connections. He remained President of the club until the completion of his degree. As an employed undergraduate student, Kevin took advantage of research and small project opportunities in the fields of robotics and thermodynamics under the guidance of respected faculty. Kevin plans to pursue a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering upon graduation to explore the field of space and aviation. He intends to apply his degrees towards creating a more sustainable future for generations to come.