Why UC Merced?
UC Merced stood out to me because of its commitment to innovation, community, and growth. As the newest UC campus, it offered a unique opportunity to be part of shaping a legacy while benefiting from small class sizes and close faculty mentorship. As an incoming, first-generation Ugandan student, I found UC Merced to be a welcoming environment that provided support for students from underrepresented and diverse backgrounds. The campus's interdisciplinary research focus and access to field-based learning aligned well with my career goals in sustainability, engineering, and community-based problem-solving.
Why Your Major?
My early exposure to STEM through programs like MESA, SMASH, FIRST Robotics, and VEX Robotics inspired my curiosity for engineering solutions that could create real-world impact. Environmental Engineering, in particular, offered a practical and purposeful path, blending natural science, policy, and design to address major challenges of my generation, from climate change to water equity. My passion deepened through hands-on projects and coursework that allowed me to see how engineering can empower communities locally and globally.
Inspiration and Mentors
My greatest inspirations are my parents, whose resilience and sacrifices made it possible for me to pursue higher education. They’ve instilled in me the values of perseverance, service, and education. I’ve also been mentored by faculty researchers, including Dr. Colleen Naughton and Dr. Erin Hestir, graduate students, including Joliette Li, Raji Lukkoor, Hope Hauptman, and professionals, including the Merced Vernal Pools & Grassland Reserve Team, Dominique Williams, Hanna Bartram, and Dr. Marianna Harris who encouraged me to step into research, leadership, and technical roles. Their support helped me navigate academic spaces, apply for global opportunities, and grow as both a scholar and community advocate. Their belief in my potential continues to drive me to uplift others as I move forward.
Memorable Academic Experience
One of my most impactful academic experiences was participating in an international research project in Morocco through the National Science Foundation International Research Experiences for Students (IRES) program. I conducted environmental and social life cycle assessments to study equitable systems for women’s argan oil production. This experience gave me a global perspective on engineering for equity and sustainability. I’ve also engaged in microresearch at the UC Merced Vernal Pools and Grasslands Reserve, conducted various monitoring and energy system design projects, and presented at national conferences, each experience reinforcing my passion for applied, community-driven research.
What's Next?
After graduation, i wish to continue to the research industry. I’ve been accepted into a CITRIS research internship, where I’ll contribute to innovative climate and energy solutions. In the long term, I plan to prepare for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam to begin the path toward licensure as a professional engineer. I aim to work in and apply engineering principles to support under-resourced communities. My career aspirations include graduate school and contributing to interdisciplinary teams tackling sustainability and environmental health.
Anything else?
Reflecting on my journey, I’m proud of the challenges I’ve overcome as a first-generation Ugandan student, from navigating new academic systems to leading technical and outreach projects. I’ve been fortunate to grow through internships, research roles, and mentorship, all while undergoing medical emergencies and two surgical procedures my third year. One highlight is earning the outstanding student recognition for the school of engineering. These experiences have helped me grow not just as a student, but as a leader determined to give back to the communities that shaped me.
