Within GLASS: Global Impact

Global Competency

United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi

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United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi ~~

During my Junior Year Spring 2025 semester, particularly during Spring Break, I had the opportunity to participate in the Experimental Study Abroad program in Portugal. We visited organizations like Energias de Portugal and Nãm Urban Mushroom Farm, where I saw firsthand how the country approaches energy, sustainability, and resource management. Portugal is far ahead in renewable energy, and being there pushed me to think about how similar ideas could be implemented back home or even in developing regions that need it most.

I also took part in the Business Consulting Challenge, which was one of my favorite parts of the experience. Working with a diverse team on a real problem reminded me of the kind of collaboration I love in engineering projects. It strengthened my strategic thinking and communication skills and taught me a lot about adapting to different perspectives, especially when working in a multicultural environment.

One of the most memorable visits was to the Amorim Cork factory. Seeing how the world’s largest cork producer combines tradition with sustainability and innovation was inspiring. It showed me how engineering and culture intersect and how industries can stay true to their roots while still evolving to meet global needs.

Overall, the study abroad experience helped me connect my academic and professional goals to a much broader global perspective. It gave me hands-on learning, cultural insight, and a deeper understanding of what it means to pursue engineering with a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community.

Kenya: Nairobi

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Kenya: Nairobi ~~

During Summer 2025, specifically in August, I had the opportunity to participate in the Alternative Summer Program in Nairobi, Kenya. You will see this experience listed below under “Commitment to Service,” but I chose to include it here as well because it strongly reflects both service and global competency.

This experience truly helped me develop global competency by forcing me to step back and see the bigger picture. Many of the things we consider “normal” in our day to day lives are actually privileges. Being immersed in a completely different environment made that very clear and left me with a deep sense of gratitude.

Throughout the program, I learned so much about Kenyan culture, the people, and their everyday lives. A large part of the trip involved hands on work at a children’s orphanage home, where I was able to directly support and engage with the community. One thing that stood out to me was how deeply rooted faith is within the community. Despite the challenges many people face, their faith remains strong. Because of this, I chose to include a few Bible verses that resonated with me, one of which is pictured above.

Overall, this experience was incredibly impactful and meaningful. It pushed me to grow, reflect, and appreciate the position I am in, and it reinforced the importance of service and humility.

Ecuador: Puyo & Quito

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Ecuador: Puyo & Quito ~~

This trip will take place during my Senior Year Spring 2026 semester. Particularly, during Spring Break (March 14-22nd)….TBD!!!

During my Sophomore Year Spring 2024 semester, I engaged in a study abroad program at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) as a requisite element of the GLASS Program. Embarking on a study abroad experience has profoundly impacted my worldview, offering me a unique lens through which to appreciate the cultural, social, and economic differences between the United States and the United Arab Emirates. 

The diversity of New York City contrasts with Abu Dhabi's blend of tradition and modernity, each place offering valuable lessons about cosmopolitanism, governance, and the interconnectedness of global societies. This journey has cultivated in me a deeper understanding of global dynamics and the importance of cultural sensitivity, empathy, and awareness.

Beyond broadening my global perspective, studying at NYUAD has also been a significant period of personal and professional growth. With the opportunity for self-reflection, I established a disciplined approach to fitness, which paralleled the discipline required in my professional life, highlighting the importance of structure, accountability, and reliability. 

My travels to various countries, including memorable trips to Italy and a solo journey to Egypt, have enriched my life with cherished memories and reinforced my goals for financial freedom. This transformative experience has left me with a deeper appreciation for the power of international education and the resilience needed to embrace opportunities and thrive in an ever-evolving world.

Portugal: Lisbon & Porto

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Portugal: Lisbon & Porto ~~

Commitment to Service

AFYA: Medical Supplies for Gaza and Israel

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AFYA: Medical Supplies for Gaza and Israel ~

Abu Dhabi's Emirates Red Crescent

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Abu Dhabi's Emirates Red Crescent ~~

Volunteering with AFYA’s Medical Supplies for Gaza and Israel program opened my eyes to how much impact careful, behind the scenes work can have. When I first stepped into the warehouse, I saw tables filled with donated equipment from hospitals across New York, including NYU Langone. Our role was simple but important. We sorted, organized, and prepared these supplies so they could reach medical teams caring for people in crisis.

As I moved through each box and labeled each item, I kept thinking about the doctors, nurses, and families who would eventually rely on these materials. It made the work feel purposeful. There was a strong sense of unity among the volunteers, everyone focused on getting help to where it was needed most. No photos, no attention, just service for the sake of others. I walked away with a deeper appreciation for humanitarian efforts and for the people who dedicate their time to them.

Volunteering Solutions: Kenya, Africa

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Volunteering Solutions: Kenya, Africa ~

Spending Ramadan in Abu Dhabi allowed me to experience the month in a way I never had before. When I received an email from Abu Dhabi's Emirates Red Crescent looking for volunteers to distribute Iftar meals, I knew I wanted to be part of it. I chose a Friday evening and made my way to the distribution site, not knowing what to expect, only knowing I wanted to help.

Handing out meals to people as they prepared to break their fast was a moment that stayed with me. The gratitude in their faces, the peace in the air, and the sense of community were undeniable. Everyone showed kindness. Everyone looked out for one another. It felt like being part of a family that extended far beyond borders or backgrounds.

Out of respect for the occasion and for the people we served, I chose not to take any photos. But the experience is unforgettable. It reminded me of the beauty of service, the importance of compassion, and the power of tradition in bringing people together. If I could do it again, I would. .

This trip made me slow down and think about what really matters to me in life. My parents gave everything for our family’s future, and being in Kenya reminded me how much those sacrifices shaped me.At Makimei Children’s Home in Lower Kabete, I worked with the non-pre-health team on a new multi-story building that will serve as both a safe home and a classroom for kids. Beyond the bricks and beams, what stood out most was the spirit of the community. Despite difficult living conditions, people remained resilient, faithful, and most importantly, love flourished among us. It gave me perspective. I came back with a deeper appreciation for the little things I often take for granted and a clearer sense of how I want to keep giving back.This was not just a trip. It was a reminder to live with gratitude, to invest in people, and to focus on building things that last beyond ourselves!