Who am I?
I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy at Southern Methodist University (SMU), with minors in Mechanical and Environmental Engineering, and plan to graduate in May 2027. Throughout my academic career, I have taken civil engineering, public policy, and environmental studies courses. Prior to SMU, I graduated from Plano East Senior High School in 2023, where I maintained a 3.9 GPA, earned Summa Cum Laude honors, and finished in the top 5% of my class. During high school, I also took Advanced Placement (AP) courses in subjects such as English, history, environmental science, physics, and chemistry, as well as Calc 3, Diff. Eq., and Discrete Math at Collin College.
Professionally, I’ve held several engineering internships, including positions at Lockwood, Andrews, and Newman as a Civil Engineering Intern, where I enhanced construction designs and performed detailed quantity checks. I’ve also worked as an intern with Geoscience Engineers, gaining experience in soil and concrete testing, and I’ve interned with CORE Construction, where I contributed to virtual construction processes using advanced software like Lumion, BIM360, and Revit. My latest role is with the U.S. Department of State, where I am set to begin internships in Fall 2024.
In addition to my internships, I’ve been involved in research at SMU, focusing on transportation equity, and I’ve participated in various projects outside of Civil Engineering, such as creating a Lunar Satellite Collision Mitigation Program and the Conrad Challenge. Outside of academics and research, I own a collectibles business, Haq Collectibles LLC, where I specialize in buying and selling valuable merchandise. I also contribute to freelance writing projects, tutor students in math, and volunteer with organizations like Kiwanis International and Big Brothers Big Sisters. My work has been recognized with awards in writing, science fairs, and robotics competitions, further highlighting my diverse skill set and commitment to continuous learning and leadership.
Currently, I’m interested in exploring the relationship between people, government, institutions, business, and infrastructure. I hope to continue studying the intersection of these disciplines to better understand the governance behind infrastructure and how to create a more sustainable, just, and equitable society for all of humankind.
From a young age, I've embraced diverse opportunities to grow, create, and contribute to the world around me. My journey has been shaped by a passion for governance, infrastructure, and innovation, as well as a love for engaging in my community and pursuing creative projects.
High School: Laying the Foundation
My first year of high school marked a turning point. As a cellist since middle school, I continued to hone my craft, performing with the Plano East Senior High Orchestra and the Otto Middle School Orchestra, where we earned the prestigious UIL Sweepstakes Award, the highest recognition for K-12 music groups in Texas. Playing the cello taught me how to think differently and approach challenges with creativity and discipline.
Around the same time, I discovered Model United Nations (MUN) and competed at MUNSA 2020 in San Antonio, representing Indonesia in the Human Rights session. This experience taught me invaluable skills in public speaking, diplomacy, critical thinking, and international governance. While there weren’t singular standout moments, I found the collaborative nature of MUN both enjoyable and inspiring.
Sophomore Year: Expanding Horizons
During my sophomore year, I delved deeper into service and technology. As a volunteer with the American Red Cross, I led an "International Humanitarian Law" campaign, a combination of social media education and community events. Though I don’t recall the exact award we received, it recognized the campaign’s impactful design and outreach. My involvement with Key Club also grew as I hosted and managed a major “Feed My Starving Children” event. This large-scale logistical undertaking succeeded in mobilizing our community and making a tangible impact. I took on leadership roles as treasurer and later joined the Texas-Oklahoma board.
At the same time, I joined the Plano East Robotics Team, where I contributed to graphics development using tools like Fusion 360, Adobe Creative Cloud, and the Microsoft Office Suite. Together, our team won the Inspire Award and the Design Award, further solidifying my interest in using technology for creative problem-solving.
Junior Year: Awards and Achievements
Junior year was a whirlwind of accomplishments. I was honored as Plano’s Key Club “Sophomore of the Year” for my active involvement with the Plano Kiwanis Club and Key Club activities.
Academically, I undertook a science fair project where I developed a ground-tracking software using Python. This project was designed to prevent the buildup of space debris by fostering international collaboration through a shared database of satellites and crafts orbiting the moon. After advancing through several levels, we placed second at the Texas State Science Fair. This project ignited my passion for international collaboration in infrastructure and innovation.
Additionally, I created a documentary titled Space Talk: Analysis of Communication During the Race to the Moon for National History Day. Exploring the governance aspect of the Space Race allowed me to merge my love for space with my curiosity about policy and communication. The documentary won at the regional level, reflecting its depth and engagement.
In writing, I received national recognition for my essay, The Muslim World's Relationship with Consumerism and the Environment. This piece, which explored the societal relationship with environmental issues like waste management, earned the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards’ "One Earth Award" and a National Critical Essay Gold Medal.
College: Research and Writing
After high school, my interests in governance and infrastructure deepened. During my freshman year of college, I began publishing articles focusing on infrastructure and strategies for reducing automobile dependency. I also had the honor of collaborating with Dr. Janille Smith-Colin, an expert in engineering governance. Together, we explored the interplay between governance institutions, stakeholders, infrastructure systems, and financial priorities. My work with Dr. Smith-Colin not only expanded my academic perspective but also solidified my commitment to fostering sustainable and inclusive governance.
Beyond Academics: Community Roots
Throughout all of this, I’ve proudly stayed connected to my Dallas roots. I’ve contributed to Wikipedia with a focus on enhancing information about the city and the communities that make it special. Additionally, my work experience at Raising Cane’s as a fry cook and cashier taught me the value of hard work, teamwork, and excellent service—skills I carry into every endeavor.
Looking Ahead
I’m always seeking opportunities to explore my passions for governance, infrastructure, and innovation. Whether through research, writing, or community involvement, I’m dedicated to making a meaningful impact. If you share similar interests or have opportunities for collaboration, I’d love to connect