Learn about our Spring Grand Challenges Scholars in this article highlighting them along with other outstanding Fulton schools graduates.
Spring 2024 Graduating Class of GCSP!
Interested in learning more about GCSP? Click on each name to learn more about each scholar, how they completed the various components and requirements of the program, and what being a Grand Challenges Scholar means to them!
Joy Agus
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
To see Joy’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Deepit Arora
Major: Robotic Engineering
Theme: Joy of Living
To see Deepit’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Kayshavi Bakshi
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
To see Kayshavi’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Neha Balamurugan
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Joy of Living
To see Neha’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Asher Baptista
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Joy of Living
To see Asher’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Ragde Chaira-Gouzounis
Major: Robotics Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
To see Ragde’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Nabhan Fakrudin
Major: Aerospace Engineering
Theme: Health
To see Nabhan’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Shrey Garg
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Sustainability
To see Shrey’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Sushrut Ghosal
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Joy of Living
To see Sushrut’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Rini Jain
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Security
To see Rini’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Rishik Kolli
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Security
To see Rishik’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Cameron Morgan
Major: Environmental Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
To see Cameron’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Lilli Offenberger
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
To see Lilli’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Jake Okun
Major: Manufacturing Engineering
Theme: Joy of Living
To see Jake’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Khushi Pandey
Major: Chemical Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
To see Khushi’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Nicholas Peterson
Major: Astronautical Aerospace Engineering
Theme: Security
To see Nicholas’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Hailey Petsch
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
To see Hailey’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Sashrik Rajesh
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Joy of Living
To see Sashrik’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Anant Rastogi
Major: Computer Systems Engineering
Theme: Joy of Living
To see Anant’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Riley Seminara
Major: Chemical Engineering
Theme: Health
To see Riley’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Priyati Sharma
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
To see Priyati’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Connor Williamson
Major: Chemical Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
To see Connor’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Meet the Fall 2023 Graduating Class of GCSP!
Fall 2023 GCSP Graduating Class.
Interested in learning more about GCSP? Click on each name to learn more about each scholar, how they completed the various components and requirements of the program, and what being a Grand Challenges Scholar means to them!
Audrey Schlichting
Major: Aeronautical Management Technology (Professional Flight)
Theme: Sustainability
To see Audrey’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Sarthak Agarwal
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Joy Of Living
To see Sarthak’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Sudhanva Moudgalya
Major: computer science
Theme: Sustainability
To see Sudhanva’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Meet the Spring 2023 Graduating Class of GCSP!
Spring 2023 GCSP Graduating Class.
Interested in learning more about GCSP? Click on each name to learn more about each scholar, how they completed the various components and requirements of the program, and what being a Grand Challenges Scholar means to them!
Anna Kylat
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
To see Anna’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Brendan Carella
Major: Civil Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
To see Brendan’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Christina Aridi
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
To see Christina’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Dhrasti Dalal
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
To see Dhrasti’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Emily Hagood
Major: Materials Science and Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
To see Emily’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Jacob Michalik
Major: Computer Systems Engineering
Theme: Security
To see Jacob’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Jake Kenny
Major: Computer Science (cyber Security)
Theme: Security
To see Jake’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Katie Sue Pascavis
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
To see Katie’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Michael Farrell
Major: Biological Sciences (Biomedical Sciences)
Theme: Health
To see Michael’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Michelle Jang
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
To see Michelle’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Nandika Goyal
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Joy of Living
To see Nandika’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Salma Ly
Major: Chemical Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
To see Salma’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Shreshth Dembla
Major: Chemical Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
To see Shreshth’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Sumi Ramachandran
Major: Chemical Engineering
Theme: Health
To see Shreshth’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Daniel Espinoza Pena
Major: Engineering (Electrical Systems)
Theme: Sustainability
To see Daniel’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Kamawela Leka
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
To see Kamawela’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Derek Smetanick
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
To see Derek’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Meet the Spring 2022 Graduating Class of GCSP!
Interested in learning more about GCSP? Click on each name to learn more about each scholar, how they completed the various components and requirements of the program, and what being a Grand Challenges Scholar means to them!
Alexia Roberts
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Theme: Joy of Living
“My goal is to improve graduation and literacy rates in urban school systems across the nation. My father is a aerospace engineer and my mother is a nurse anesthetist and I am the youngest of their four children. Both of my parents grew up in low income communities and they were both the rare success stories. As a GCSP scholars I strive to make stories like theirs the norms not the outliers.”
To see Alexia’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Ananay Arora
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Security
“In Freshman year second semester, I was approached by an aspiring founder, Kyle Markell, to start a company “WeFit”. When he approached me with the business idea, I was intrigued and we decided to take it to Venture Devils. The idea was to create a “Social Network for health” where people would post videos of them doing workouts and a way to connect with health experts. The app would make money through a subscription model / ads. The subscription model would help users connect to WeFit Personal Trainers, Dieticians Physicians and other health experts.”
To see Ananay’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Brian Aguilar
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
“I decided to pursue Engineering because I wanted to design innovative solutions towards health related issues. Specifically, I aspire to develop solutions in drug delivery and biomaterial systems. This could involve microparticles, gels, scaffolds and other tissue engineering components. Eventually, I’d like to start a company in this field. The motivation behind joining the Grand Challenge Scholars Program is rooted in my need to attain a holistic approach to engineering solutions.”
To see Brian’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Brooklyn Johnson
Major: Engineering: Mechanical Engineering Systems
Theme: Health
“I have always enjoyed math and science and I always wanted to make a difference in my community. Because of this engineering was a clear career choice that seamlessly wove both of these components together, and ultimately fueled my passion for the path I am on more than I thought possible.”
To see Brooklyn’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Chase Green
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
“My experience with engineering began back when I attended a robotics camp back in middle school where we understood the basics of toy robotics. This sparked my passion for engineering which I continued to pursue by enrolling in the engineering branch of the STEM program that was offered by my high school. During my time at Arizona State University, I continued to follow this passion by attending the Grand Challenge Scholars Program in the theme of Sustainability where I learned skills and information that made me a greater engineer.”
To see Chase’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Emma Lieberman
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
“Within the GCSP program, I have selected the theme Health. I feel strongly that biomedical engineering can be used to create more effective personalized medicine. This means developing a kind of medical care that takes into consideration the whole person, not just their disease. Within the BME major, I have selected the biological track, focusing more on biology and genetic engineering.”
To see Emma’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Hunter Silvey
Major: Engineering (Mechanical Systems)
Theme: Sustainability
“Coming to ASU I was focused on making the most out of my academic experience, that being clubs, research, and programs like GCSP. I recently was a part of FURI and completed research based in Sustainability, which is one of the reasons I was made aware of the Grand Challenges Scholars Program. I decided to transition into the Joy of Living theme to better encompass all the facets of engineering that I could tap into while ASU as my goal with every project is to make the user’s life better. With my passion for engineering I hope to help make improvements around the world that can help society and the environment progress, while not halting the expansion of technology or innovation.”
To see Hunter’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Jairo Ramirez Torres
Major: Electrical Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
“Throughout my time at ASU and the NAE Grand Challenge Scholars Program, I have focused on the topic of sustainability since I believe it is the single biggest challenge that our species faces today and towards the future. GCSP has pushed me to be a better engineer, student, and member of society through coursework, experiences, and exposure to new ideas.”
To see Jairo’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Jason Manuel
Major: Computer Science (Software Engineering)
Theme: Sustainability
“I first started programming when I was about 11. Since then, I have been passionate about building software. I chose my major so that I can become a better software developer ready for an engaging career. I joined GCSP since the program will give me many opportunities to explore and apply engineering. Also, reflection and service learning are part of the program, as they were in the IB Diploma Program I completed in high school, so I know I will enjoy GCSP. I currently intend to focus on sustainability challenges.”
To see Jason’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Jason Dutro
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Joy of Living
“Throughout my childhood in El Cajon, California I participated in the Boy Scouts of America where I eventually attained the highest possible rank of Eagle Scout. In this time I learned the value of teamwork, leadership, and community service and I hope to apply these values in my work in GSCP and beyond.
The Grand Scholars Program captured my attention since it seemed like a great opportunity to achieve the next level towards greater community service. My interests in media and computers have geared my interests towards the pursuit of higher understanding. I hope to engineer the tools and subjects of education to push the schooling of tomorrow towards greater heights so we may have even more thinkers in the future.”
To see Jason’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Jennifer Smetanick
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
“Pursuing health research has been some of the most exciting aspects of my undergraduate career. I first started with bioinformatics projects including: creating a more intelligent EHR system and developing tools to identify markers for specific cancers. From there, I gained wet lab experience through the Banner-ASU Neuroscience Scholars Program. These experiences have better prepared me for a clinical role in the future – something I envision myself doing.”
To see Jennifer’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Joshua Burgett
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Theme: Joy of Living
“While participating in GCSP I have taken a much broader range of classes than I may have otherwise. I found these classes were extremely helpful in gaining a broader view of engineering the design process, and different ways to approach a problem. Many of these classes have focused on the human impact of technology and the global challenges that we face. The Grand Challenge that I have found to be the most interesting throughout these courses is Joy of Living. The Joy of Living Challenge is a bit broader but is impacted by any product that is created or policy that is implemented, which makes it extremely important. Without advancements in medicine, energy, and technology in general the world will not be able to face the seemingly ever-increasing challenges we face.”
To see Joshua’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Kiera Fleck
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
“Not only did GCSP allow me to accomplish my goal of acquiring new perspectives, but the experiences recounted in this portfolio guided my career path and my goals for the future. In particular, my participation in the Banner-ASU Neuroscience Scholars Program and the Kong lab in the Biodesign Center for Immunotherapy, Vaccines and Virotherapy for the talent competency greatly inspired my passions. I hope to earn a PhD in neuroscience to eventually conduct research in neuroimmunology and psychiatric disorders. I believe that a PhD in neuroscience in combination with my degree in BME will equip me with the tools to develop novel treatments for such devastating disorders. I will be pursuing my doctoral studies at Scripps Research in San Diego, California beginning in August 2022.”
To see Kiera’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Maya Muir
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Joy of Living
“I consider myself a logical thinker and computer science is based entirely around logic. There is a solution that you need to arrive at, but in order to get to it, you need to follow a long chain of logical statements, or you will get stuck with an error-filled program. Another aspect that was intriguing to me is how there are so many different ways you can solve the problem you are looking at. Computer science blended perfectly with my love for math as it also follows the same principles of logic and real world problem solving. Unlike other subjects, there is a right and a wrong answer, but an infinite amount of ways to reach that solution.”
To see Maya’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Nathaniel Anbar
Major: Chemical Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
“Over the course of my time in the Grand Challenge Scholars Program I have had the opportunity to acquire hands on engineering experience while engaging with some of the most difficult – and pressing – issues that face our society. The majority of my endeavors within this program fell under the category of sustainability and more specifically renewable energy due to my pre-existing interests, but I nevertheless had the opportunity to experiment with work in a variety of fields.”
To see Nathaniel’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Nyah Kshatriya
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
“The theme of health most interested me because I love learning about the human body and the complex ways in which it works. I want to learn more about the challenges that involve reverse engineering the brain as well as advancing health informatics. I think that as engineers, we can come up with effective solutions for the health problems that we see around us by thinking in an innovative, creative manner, and I feel that GCSP helped me develop the skills to do this.”
To see Nyah’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Robert Buessing
Major: Aerospace Engineering (Astronautics)
Theme: Joy of Living
“I became a Grand Challenge Scholar in order to take a more interdisciplinary approach to studying engineering, and in order to motivate me to pursue plenty of opportunities to improve my engineering skills outside of the classroom. I am most passionate about the challenge to engineer tools of discovery and the theme of joy of living. I have been interested in space exploration and development for a while, and this is what made me decide to pursue a career in aerospace engineering with a specialization in astronautics. I plan to work in the space industry.”
To see Robert’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Samantha Geiser
Major: Chemical Engineering
Theme: Health
Samantha joined the Grand Challenge Scholars Program to better herself as an engineer. She wanted to participate in this program to ensure that she becomes an engineer capable of designing the solutions needed to address the issues of the future. Additionally, Samantha believes that being in the program helped serve as a reminder of the things she should be doing and the goals that she has. Her specific focus in the Grand Challenge Scholar’s Program is in Health. She is mainly interested in biomedical or bio-focused research, however, she also enjoys energy-focused topics. Her goal and interests lie in innovating efficient solutions that would be useful to all people everywhere regardless of income.
To see Samantha’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Smith Pittman
Major: Environmental Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
“I will graduate in May 2022 from the Barrett Honors College at Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering, a minor in Spanish Language, and as a Grand Challenge Scholar. In May 2022, I will also begin my PhD studies in Mechanical Engineering at Colorado State University, focussing on life cycle analysis of valuable product recovery from anaerobic digestion.”
To see Smith’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Raphael David
Major: Industrial Engineering
Theme: Health
“I was born in Merrick, NY, but came here to ASU to experience the many opportunities the university has to offer. Currently, I am involved in the Grand Challenge Scholars Program, the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fellows, Philharmonia (an orchestral ensemble), and am an intern at Culdesac.I became involved with the Grand Challenge Scholars Program in order to start making a difference as an engineering student. I will be mainly focusing on the problems we face today in the world of health.”
To see Raphael’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Fall 2021 Scholars
Interested in learning more about GCSP? Click on each name to learn more about each scholar, how they completed the various components and requirements of the program, and what being a Grand Challenges Scholar means to them!
Rayanna Pearson
Major: Civil Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
“I joined the Grand Challenge Scholars Program with a focus in sustainability, specifically on restoring and improving infrastructure. The coursework and experiences I have worked through in the Grand Challenge Scholars Program have helped me to be more engaged in learning and to become a more well-rounded engineer.”
To see Rayanna’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Daniel Bruce
Major: Mechanical Engineering Systems
Theme: Joy of Living
“My multicultural mindset expanded after participating in two Peru projects and one Kenya project. For all three projects, our team had to take a human-centered design approach. We talked with our customers frequently and revised our design as needed. When I travelled to Peru, I experienced what it was like to live like a local Peruvian. Each of these projects built on the other. For each subsequent project, I was better equipped to design and implement an engineering solution abroad. For all three projects, our goal was to improve the quality of life of our stakeholders so that they could live a more joyous life.”
To see Daniel’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Connor Phillips
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Theme: Health
“The reason I chose to participate in the Grand Challenges Scholars Program (GCSP) is because I knew that wanted to develop engineering solutions that would improve quality of life for people with disabilities. As a result of my participation in GCSP, I have been offered an opportunity to a postbaccalaureate research position at the National Institutes of Health in the Functional and Applied Biomechanics Lab of Dr. Diane Damiano.”
To see Connor’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Spring 2021 Graduates
Karishma Albal
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
“I am passionate about renewable energy, so I chose to pursue the Grand Challenges Scholars Program theme of sustainability. I have engaged in sustainability-focused academic projects that have helped to prepare me to solve the grand challenges facing society.”
To see Karishma’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Cindy Rogel Bahena
Major: Materials science and engineering
Theme: Joy of Living
“The Grand Challenges Scholars Program has allowed me to challenge myself and grow through competing in startups, community service, interning with Raytheon and Intel, teaching, being a researcher, and being a leader in my community.”
To see Cindy’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
McKyla Beuttler
Major: Electrical engineering
Theme: Health
“My research experiences include a project to develop a visual display using various inputs in Lua to analyze data in real time, and working with a team to create an electromechanical machine that interprets musical pitch and rhythm into visual art to create an immersive experience for users.”
To see McKyla’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Claire Block
Major: Materials science and engineering
Theme: Sustainability
“I am passionate about the environment and learning more about materials on the nanoscale. The Grand Challenges Scholars Program pushed me outside of my comfort zone by encouraging me to participate in the entrepreneurship component. Now I understand the importance of the entrepreneurial mindset”
To see Claire’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Ally Coen
Major: Biomedical engineering
Theme: Health
“Biomedical engineering combines my interests in math and science, and the Grand Challenges Scholars Program has pushed me to explore my interests in the biomedical field and realize my passion for using industrial and systems engineering to improve the quality and accessibility of health care.”
To see Ally’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Alexandra Fernandez
Major: Chemical engineering
Theme: Joy of living
“My passions are equal education for underrepresented communities and battling climate change. Through STEM outreach events and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, I have addressed issues contributing to a lack of equal education, and focused my chemical engineering studies on the environment and renewable energy.”
To see Alexandra’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Rachel Fisher
Major: Biomedical engineering
Theme: Health
“Creating technology to improve health care is a passion of mine, particularly in regenerative medicine, biomaterials and big data. The Grand Challenges Scholars Program has pushed me to get involved beyond engineering. I interned within a dialysis clinic, co-founded a software startup company, and developed health education programs for people experiencing homelessness.”
To see Rachel’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Mukhtar Hamzat
Major: Electrical engineering
Theme: Sustainability
“My theme is sustainability because I believe it is crucial for me to be able to build solutions that are environmentally, financially and socially sustainable. My passion lies at the intersection of engineering and entrepreneurship, which I believe are complementary tools for developing effective solutions to wicket problems.”
To see Mukhtar’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
James Hansen
Major: Aerospace engineering (Astronautics)
Theme: Joy of Living (Tools of Scientific Discovery)
“I joined the Grand Challenges Scholars Program to challenge myself, broaden my scope and do research. This program gave me the tools, community and confidence to do that. I’ve focused on engineering tools for scientific discovery including designing mission-critical components that are now in space and researching how to improve renewable energy generation.”
To see James’ accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Elizabeth Jones
Major: Electrical engineering
Theme: Joy of Living
“The program has provided me a variety of opportunities to develop confidence. I’ve learned how to overcome obstacles and to find my own voice as an engineer. That has helped me pursue a passion to contribute to diversifying engineering by helping bring females from all backgrounds into the field.”
To see Elizabeth’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
James Pillar
Major: Mechanical engineering
Theme: Health
“ASU’s engineering prestige has always held my eye as a phenomenal school to prepare me for the wonderful world of creativity and innovation. The addition of the Grand Challenges Scholars Program as another opportunity to surround myself with active, engaging and competitive students only enhanced my experience.”
To see James’ accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Juan Pablo Robayo
Major: Biomedical engineering
Theme: Health
“Being a part of the Grand Challenges Scholars Program has been one of the best decisions I have made. It has pushed me to stretch myself and develop as an engineer with a future goal in mind. We not only train in the competencies of engineering, but also in the understanding of human factors.”
To see Juan Pablo’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Stephen Robertson
Major: Electrical engineering
Theme: Joy of living
“I chose to go into engineering because I enjoy math, science, and problem-solving and the design process. I became a Grand Challenges Scholar because I wanted to show that I am also interested in the bigger impact of good engineering, and I know that getting involved with the program will help me advance in my field.”
To see Stephen’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Jessica Sherman
Major: Informatics (Enterprise)
Theme: Sustainability
“I joined the Grand Challenges Scholars Program because I wanted to gain valuable life skills while learning how to improve the world. I think the program provides students with a plan to achieve the most they can in college and prepares them to change the world.”
To see Jessica’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Fall 2020 Graduates
Ethan Berglund
Major: Computer Systems Engineering
Theme: Security
“I joined the Grand Challenge Scholar program in order to diversify my college experience, and to afford me the opportunities to dive deeper into my field. I am a deep believer that it is every man’s duty to be as well-rounded as he can be, and the GCSP allows me to do just that.”
To see Ethan’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Kartik Gupta
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Education/Tools for Scientific Discovery
“Coming from an entirely different education system in India, I had a few challenges to understand the system of education here at ASU. Overcoming those challenges with hard work and sincerity made me a better learner and instilled in me the will to succeed.”
To see Kartik’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Sean Keller
Major: Electrical Engineering
Theme: Security
“In terms of the Grand Challenge Scholar Program, the area that interests me the most is cybersecuity. What fascinates me about cybersecurity is how cyberattacks can have detrimental political, social, and economic ramifications. These different extents highlight why cybersecrity is a pressing issue in the digital age.”
To see Sean’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Henrique Mello
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Security
“When I first came to ASU, I knew there was a lot that I could and hoped to do, such as doing research, studying abroad, doing community outreach, working with industry mentors, and more, but I did not know how to even begin working towards some of those goals. GCSP provided me with a framework and resources to accomplish those goals, and kept me accountable to ensure none of them fell through the cracks.”
To see Henrique’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Danielle Rivera
Major: Electrical Engineering
Theme: Tools for Scientific Discovery
“I decided to participate in the Grand Challenge Scholars Program because it encouraged me to pursue a well-rounded education while still focusing on what I am passionate about. The interdisciplinary and multicultural courses I took helped shape my viewpoint and taught me to consider non-technical aspects of problems. “
To see Danielle’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Spring 2020 GCSP Graduates
Lindsay Akers
Major: Industrial Engineering
Theme: Health
“The GCSP theme that I have pursued is Health. The Health theme involves thinking about how we can better engineer things such as medicines, medical devices, and maybe someday tissues and organs to help save lives. I have been interested in the Healthcare field for several years, but did not necessarily want to explore a career in this field. I knew pursuing the health theme would be a great way to gain experiences in this area. Several of my competency courses and experiences relate to this theme. ”
To see Lindsay’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Dean Spyres
Major: Mechanical Engineering Systems
Theme: Health
“Of the many grand challenges that my generation and future generations will be faced with, the topic of health and medical-related technologies became my passion and focus. My decision to pursue the field of health and medical-related challenges began before the GCSP when I decided that my path and objective was to have a tangible positive impact on people’s lives. The best way I knew how to do this was to have an impact on their health by reducing surgical error in the ORs, creating regenerative medicine, designing custom solutions for patients. ”
To see Dean’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Ava Karanjia
Major: Microbiology & Chemical Engineering
Theme: Health
“The Grand Challenge Scholars Program has allowed me to combine my two majors and my diverse extracurricular experiences to branch beyond the normal chemical engineering curriculum. Through this program, I have promoted the importance of becoming a conscientious engineer through both my academic and research experiences. By participating in this program and other FSE organization, I have gained invaluable interpersonal, leadership, and communication skills that will aid significantly in my pursuit to become a scientific researcher.”
To see Ava’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Brielle Januszewski
Major: Civil Engineering, Conservation Biology, and Political Science
Theme: Sustainability
“I chose to participate in the Grand Challenge Scholars Program because I liked the focus on creating a well-rounded education to tackle large, over-arching problems. It also gave me the opportunity to experience different parts of research and learn more about the other aspects of a problem that aren’t completely technical.”
To see Brielle’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Maeve Kennedy
Major: Chemical Engineering
Theme: Health
“Through my time in GCSP, I have learned the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, volunteering in the community, connecting with the world globally, exploring curiosities through research, and having an entrepreneurial mindset. In my academic career, GCSP has helped me to understand the wide variety of ways I can use my chemical engineering degree, and how it can have benefits to society besides the obvious creation of products. In my future professional career, I expect that GCSP will help me by instilling in me the desire to approach challenges in nontraditional ways and the ability to work collaboratively in teams.”
To see Brielle’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Miles Mabey
Major: Technological Entrepreneurship and Management
Theme: Engineering the Tools of Scientific Discovery
“Throughout the past four years of pursuing my degree, the journey to becoming a Grand Challenge Scholar has left a significant impact that will undoubtedly continue to help me even beyond graduation. I have gained so many new perspectives thanks to all the experiences I had completing each of the five components for research, interdisciplinary, entrepreneurship, multicultural, and service learning.”
To see Miles’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Esther Sim
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
“GCSP has allowed me to mature substantially as both a student and an engineer. This program has made me realize how critical it is for engineers and scientists to think outside the scope of our own fields. This realization has ultimately allowed me to cultivate a passion for science advocacy, science education, and science policy.”
To see Esther’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Connor Sonnier
Major: Computer Science
Theme: Joy of Living
“Throughout the past four years of pursuing my degree, the journey to becoming a Grand Challenge Scholar has left a significant impact that will undoubtedly continue to help me even beyond graduation. I have gained so many new perspectives thanks to all the experiences I had completing each of the five components for research, interdisciplinary, entrepreneurship, multicultural, and service learning.”
To see Connor’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
2019 GCSP Graduates
Sheena Benson
Theme: Tools of Scientific Discovery
“The Grand Challenge I have set out to solve is Engineering the Tools of Scientific Discovery, as this is the Grand Challenge most closely aligned with my major and my personal interests. Scientific experiments and missions of exploration always need engineering expertise to design the tools, instruments, and systems that make it possible to acquire new knowledge about the physical and biological worlds, and by engineering and designing tools of scientific discovery, I will be able to directly impact the understanding of the universe in which we live.”
To see Sheena’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Cole Brauer
Major: Engineering (Robotics)
Theme: Education
“Through the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative, I am conducting research relating to automated manufacturing planning. This work is helping to make advanced manufacturing techniques more accessible to students and educators.”
To see Cole’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Diana Chen
Theme: Education
“While I have a lot of passions for a variety of topics, I ultimately decided towards the beginning of my undergraduate career to pursue a focus on the Grand Challenge theme of Education. I chose to pursue the Education theme because I believe that Education would be one of the best ways to create widespread impact in a variety of fields, as education really empowers a broad range of leaders to pursue their own passions and interests. If we can effectively train and cultivate leaders around the world, then I believe we will be better positioned to solve virtually every other challenge to humanity. The key right now is finding equitable, engaging solutions that can help us achieve this final outcome.”
To see Eduardo’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Eduardo Luciano Huapaya
Theme: Health
“I began my journey in the Grand Challenge Scholars Program in the Fall of 2015. Discovering my passion for health, I decided to pursue the Grand Challenge theme of health. Upon graduation, I hope to continue my passion by bringing change in the healthcare industry through cooperation of public, private, and Non-profit to help those families who come from impoverished backgrounds.
To see Eduardo’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Randee Huffman
Theme: Health
“I became a Grand Challegne Scholar because after I got invited to apply to the program I looked up what exactly the Grand Challenge Scholar Program was and what I found was very interesting. I am majoring in Mechanical Engineering but I wanted to somehow incorportate the health department into my future job. After looking at what the program consisted of I thought that this was the way that I could incorporate health into my major. I am really interested in prothstetics and the mechanisms behind them. I am interested in any grand challenge that I can use my mechanical skills within the health area.”
To see Randee’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Andrea Kraetz
Theme: Sustainability
“Throughout my 3 years at ASU, I have participated in the Grand Challenge Scholars Program in order to gain a better understanding of how engineering can be applied to address major challenges in the world such as developing carbon sequestration technologies, improving access to clean water, improving health informatics, securing cyberspace, etc. In my first year in the program, I found myself interested in improving access to clean water and selected the theme of sustainability. In the past three years I have been able to use my experiences within the Grand Challenge Scholars Program to further my knowledge of this area and develop better approaches that can help me to approach this problem.
Stephen Lane
Theme: Health
“I am a Biomedical Engineering student and Grand Challenge Scholar from Marietta, Georgia. I have a passion for the research and development of healthcare technologies and I have used this passion to focus on the theme of Health within GCSP.”
To see Stephen’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Ryan Mcburney
Theme: Energy
“I got involved in the Grand Challenge Scholars Program (GCSP) my freshman year and originally planned on tailoring my experiences to align with the Security focus, but eventually changed to the Energy focus as I progressed through my degree program. The idea of choosing security initially came form my motivation to obtain my bachelors degree in aerospace engineering. I wanted obtain this particular degree to have a concentration in autonomous vehicle systems and be a part of the engineers creating the next generation of unmanned aerial vehicles that play a major role in the battlefield. I thought that understanding the atmosphere and conditions of the theater which war is conducted would put me in the direction I wanted to go. I realized that my interests in the fundamentals of physics, dynamics and heat transfer were pulling me in another direction. As this happened I believe the shift from security to energy happened naturally as opportunity came up and my interests changed.”
Philip Mulford
Theme: Tools of Scientific Discovery
“My portfolio encompasses the different courses and experiences I have undertaken to complete the Grand Challenge Scholars Program at ASU. Through my four years in this program, I have pursued experiences that will help me gain a greater understanding of the development of the tools for scientific discovery, especially with regards to space exploration. Over my four years in this program, I have learned much about both the human imperative to explore, as well as how to advance that goal.”
To see Philip’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Ekta Patel
Theme: Health
“As you navigate through my portfolio, my talent, multidisciplinary, viable business and entrepreneurship, multicultural, and social consciousness competencies will be shared and discussed. I’m excited for you all to hear about how my undergraduate experience has molded me into a well-rounded engineer that has the power to tackle health-related problems.”
To see Ekta’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Bhavna Ramesh
Theme: Health
Jobana Westbay
Theme: Sustainability
“In my freshman year, I was invited to join the Grand Challenge Scholars Program and chose to be a part of the program with sustainability as my focus area. Over the course of the last four years, in part thanks to the GCSP, I have taken courses in a multitude of fields, including urban planning, horticulture, interior design, and sustainability. These classes helped me to develop my interests and think in a more interdisciplinary way. Through exploration of different disciplines, I developed my own niche interest: one that combines sustainable environmental design with the goal of social progress and urban development. I will be pursuing my Masters of Architecture at the University of Calgary where I plan to blend my knowledge and experience with a design education to create a better future for all.”
2018 GCSP Graduates
Framarz Alam
Theme: Health
“In my research experience, I participated in the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative to pursue a project under the guidance of Dr. Barbara Smith to develop a portable and affordable ultrasound probe for cardiovascular applications to help diagnose heart disease in the developing world where certain parts are quickly adopting a sedentary lifestyle with a diet high in processed fats.”
Kiana Ghazouli
Theme: Education
“The Grand Challenge Scholars program helped me develop my interests and skill sets in an interdisciplinary way that most engineering students do not get. It helped me make connections with faculty at ASU and push myself out of my comfort zone. My experience has also increased my technical knowledge, leadership, and confidence. I look forward to working on the Grand Challenges throughout the course of my career.”
To see Kiana’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Ji Sue Han
Theme: Health
“The purpose of the proposed (Flexible Load System) research is to improve the current models of the tactile sensor by experimenting on the conductive materials and collecting as much data as possible to interpret the data to set a basis for further experiments. By looking into both conductive foam, electrochemical alternatives encapsulated in an insulator, other possible alternatives, the experiment will allow for making a decision on the most sensitive conductor”
To see Sue’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Kathie Lundberg
Theme: Tools of Scientific Discovery
“The service learning component provided me with practical experience working as an engineer in a project-based environment. In my first project–AZ Small Dog Rescue–I learned about the importance of communication and time-management in getting a project completed on time. In my second project–Clark Park Bark Park–I learned about the importance of obtaining feedback from the end users in order to efficiently improve a design.”
Ethan Marschall
Theme: Health
“An interesting paradigm shift took hold of me through the program, which is that everything is much more connected and transferrable than I would have expected.”
To see Ethan’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Akhila Murella
Theme: Health
“GCSP has been a fantastic growing experience, both intellectually and socially. I have met some of my closest friends through the program who have simliar interests as me. The lessons I learned here are lessons I will continue to take with me throughout my career. ”
To see Akhila’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Alyssa Nazareno
Theme: Energy
“I am grateful to all of the people involved in supporting me to be a Grand Challenge Scholar. This opportunity has helped me grow as an engineer as well as a considerate and hard-working person. Reflecting on my experiences, I have seen improvement on my attitudes and approaches when facing new problems, and I look forward to continuous development as I gain experience in the Energy field.”
Jorge Roldan
Theme: Education
“The experience was a great opportunity to actually work through the engineering design process with a team full of other engineers. It was also a good introduction to what the professional world will be like since we had a client we had to communicate with and various deadlines. I learned the importance of communicating clearly with the client in order to understand their vision so our design can satisfy their needs and constraints.”
To see Jorge’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Katelyn Schroll
Theme: Health
“I have gotten involved in a lot of health related research at ASU including working in a fall risk prevention lab as part of a Research Experience for Undergrads (REU) my sophomore year. I also had the chance to work with Dr. Nancy Cooke and Dr. Erin Chiou on a FURI project in the Spring of 2017. For my FURI project I conducted a literature analysis in which from it created a healthcare framework for women in the military specifically identifying gaps within mental and reproductive healthcare.”
Nathaniel Shantz
Theme: Tools of Scientific Discovery
“…It is because of these experiences that, while incredibly difficult at times, I can honestly say I loved this program. It was incredibly valuable to me and gave me memories I will always cherish. If I could do it all over and only participate in one program for fun, it would definitely be this program.”
To see Nathaniel’s accomplishments in the program please view his GCSP portfolio here.
Tyrine Jamella Pangan
Theme: Education
Amanda Thart
Theme: Security
“One of my favorite things about GCSP, is how the program encourages students to get involved with research early. I came to college know that I wanted to get involved with research, so when I found an interesting security-related computer science project, I was quick to get a position in the lab. This research experience gave me an opportunity to learn skills that I would not gain from my classes. It also gave me insight in what work in that field would look like.”
To see Amanda’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
2017 GCSP Graduates
Marisol Luna Aguero
Theme: Sustainability
“The Grand Challenge Scholars Program has provided me with opportunities to take my degree past the engineering mindset. It has challenged me to look at problems from social, political, and sustainable points of views. Through the program, I was encouraged to do research and join organizations that have become major parts of my undergraduate experience.”
To see Marisol’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Angel Armenta
Theme: Sustainability
“Through GCSP I gained experience in interdisciplinary studies involving sustainability in both geographical and social sciences, conducted research in providing desalination solutions for underdeveloped regions, gained understanding of the importance of geopolitics and its influence on climate, learned and practiced entrepreneurial skills to turn a sustainability idea into a full-fledged business, and participated in engineering service learning through the Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS) program at ASU.”
To see Angel’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Zeynep Ayla
Theme: Sustainability
Lyle Bliss
Theme: Energy
Stephanie Brown
Theme: Health
Courtney Van Bussum
Theme: Health
“During my time as a Grand Challenge Scholar, I focused on the specific grand challenge theme of health, since it aligned closely with my interests in medicine.”
To see Courtney’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Raquel Camarena
Theme: TBA
“The Grand Challenge Scholars Program has allowed me to study and research in different areas that I had never thought of if I was not in this program. I know in the future I want to positively impact individual’s lives whether it be through national security, personal health, cyber security, sustainability, or even through the development of technological advancements.”
To see Raquel’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Douglas Elson
Theme: Energy
“GCSP taught me how to be not only a better engineer but a better person.”
To see Douglas’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Saumya Gupta
Theme: Health
“Upon acceptance into the Grand Challenge Scholars Program, I knew I wanted to focus my efforts towards advancements in the medical industry. For this reason, my work in the Grand Challenge Scholars Program Theme was towards health.”
To see Saumya’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Kaleigh Johnson
Theme: Sustainability
“This program has been an amazing experience for me, as it has helped me to go beyond my engineering degree and become an extremely well-rounded, and well-qualified engineer. I have utilized the resources available to me through the program to gain funding for my research, secure scholarships, and travel to the U.K. to learn about Climate Change.”
To see Kaleigh’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Kaleia Kramer
Theme: Health
Rebecca Mercer
Theme: Sustainability
“The GCSP has allowed me to grow as a student and to learn how to creatively and critically solve problems. This program has given me a supportive community of people who are passionate about finding solutions to engineering challenges.”
To see Rebecca’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Dominic Podzemny
Theme: Energy
“Energy is a facet of my everyday life, academics and hopefully future career. My degree concentration is in Energy and Environment as well as having a certificate in sustainability. I chose this path because I see environmental and energy concerns as a fundamental issue to overcome within the next generation.”
To see Dominic’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Mariama Salifu
Theme: Health
I read about the grand challenges scholars program in an email sent to incoming engineering students. I decided to apply to the program because I believed it would help me customize my college experience and also make me a well-rounded engineer after graduation. The Grand Challenges scholars program encourages scholars to be well-rounded and interdisciplinary. Therefore, as a Grand Challenge Scholar, I was required to participate in entrepreneurial, interdisciplinary, global, research and service learning classes and activities.
Maria Jose Quezada Valladares
Theme: TBA
“The Grand Challenge Scholar Program was an excellent way to put all my work into one place. Volunteering and doing outreach through the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, doing research in neurorehabilitation area, having a global, interdisciplinary and entrepreneurship mind set have all come together in this program.”
To see Maria’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
Shaun Wootten
Theme: Health
“GCSP has enlightened me in what it means to be an engineer and how to find solutions to societal problems. I pursued the grand challenge theme of health with the challenge of engineering better medicines.”
To see Shaun’s accomplishments in the program please view her GCSP portfolio here.
2016 GCSP Graduates
Anna Bailey
Major: Computer Systems Engineering
Theme: Security
Nicole Esquivel
Theme: Securing cyberspace
Though Nicole entered her freshman year of college with minimal knowledge of computer science, she knew that she wanted to make the internet a safer place. “I have never completely trusted placing my private information on the Internet, but as technology advances, people need to be able to trust that putting their private information on cyberspace will be secure, people need to be able to trust that the technology defending their country and their way of life will not be compromised by people with the worst intentions.” She hopes to use the knowledge she has gained and her passion for the subject to make the online world a safer and better place.
Research Experience
Nicole participated in the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program where she worked under Dr. Ahn to evaluate the security and performance of the security features of a new web protocol, HTTP 2.0.
Interdisciplinary
STS 364: National Security & International Terrorism
FSE 194: Perspectives on Grand Challenges for Engineering
Entrepreneurship
MGT 290: My Life Venture
FSE 301: Entrepreneurship for Engineers
Global Dimension
POS 467: International Security and Conflict
STS 332: Global Issues in Science and Technology
Service Learning
Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS): Worked on the Whiffey project and the Boys & Girls in STEM project.
Karime Jocelyn Rosas Gomez
Theme: Health
As Karime ventured into her theme of health, she came to realize the grand challenges involving health and how interdisciplinary components–global economy, societal, and political issues–relate to current health problems. She challenged herself by joining Dr. Nikkah’s Tissue Engineering lab even though she did not have much of a background in biology. However, through research and dedication for the subject, she was able to learn all that she needed to in order to succeed.
Research Experience
Karime worked in Dr. Nikkah’s Tissue Engineering lab and focused on working towards designing a bioreactor for cardiac cell stimulation.
Interdisciplinary
FSE 194: Perspectives on Grand Challenges for Engineering
ASB 462: Medical Anthropology: Culture & Health
Entrepreneurship
FSE 301: Entrepreneurship for Engineers
IEE 220: Business & Industrial Engineering
Global Dimension
GPH 314: Global Change
ASB 100: Introduction to Global Health
Service Learning
Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS): Worked on the Kenya Roof project
Project C.U.R.E.
Emily Herring
Theme: Health
As Emily witnessed her grandmother afflicted by dementia, she knew that she needed to pursue a career in healthcare to ensure that no one would have to go through what her grandmother did. This passion led to her interest in Biomedical Engineering. She quickly found that the biomedical field was applicable in various interdisciplinary contexts and real-world issues. She conducted research focusing on the grand challenges of reverse-engineering the brain and advancing personalized learning, and founded the startup Adaptive Designs LLC.
Research Experience
Emily worked in Dr. Jennie Si’s lab where she investigated how high order cognitive functions take place in a rat’s cortical neural network for performing tasks, such as driving, that require attention and control at the same time.
Interdisciplinary
FSE 194: Perspectives on Grand Challenges for Engineering
SOC 334: Technology & Society
Entrepreneurship
FSE 301: Entrepreneurship for Engineers
Edson Student Entrepreneur Initiative: Adaptive Designs
Global Dimension
COM 263: Elements of Intercultural Communication
GPH 314: Global Change
Service Learning
E2 Camp Counselor
Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS): Worked on the Scottsdale Training and Rehabilitation Service (STARS) project.
Morgan Kelley
Theme: Sustainability
“Participating in the Grand Challenges program has given me perspective on many of the scientific developments in the world. It has allowed me a lens through which I can view the bigger picture.” Throughout her college experience, Morgan has developed her passions and become more educated in the broader aspects of engineering. She pursued a theme of sustainability because she aspires to make the needs of the present attainable without compromising the needs of the future. She not only learned how to be a sustainable citizen of the world, but she also learned how to practice sustainability in her professional life and future career. Her work involving complex sustainability problems and her research and intern experience have prepared her to live a life as a responsible and sustainable engineer.
Research Experience
Morgan focused on the uptake and release of surfactants into and from ionic microgel networks.The removal of surfactants not only reduces waste in an oil spill but also protects fish and other aquatic animals from chemical damage. Microgels also have other applications in oil-retention as well as removal of heavy metals and other toxins from water.
Interdisciplinary
FSE 194: Perspectives on Grand Challenges for Engineering
POS 394: Introduction to Science & Technology Policy
Entrepreneurship
FSE 301: Entrepreneurship for Engineers
Dell Social Innovation Challenge
Global Dimension
GPH 314: Global Change
GPH 210: Society & Environment
Service Learning
Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS): Worked on the Fiji Lights project.
Julia King
Theme: Sustainability
It is easy to get lost in the minor details of obtaining an engineering degree and consequentially lose sight of the bigger picture. For Julia, engineering is nothing if you do not apply your skills and knowledge to benefit society. Julia has always had a passion for the subject of providing access to clean water, so it only made sense for her to pursue a theme in sustainability. She believes that there is much work to be done in the field of energy efficiency and water conservation. After involving herself in research throughout her college experience, she plans on continuing to research and find solutions to the world’s sustainability problems. “I love research and believe that taking an active stance on your personal learning is one of the most proactive ways to further collective human knowledge with the idea that with more knowledge humankind can work on creating a more sustainable world.”
Research Experience
Julia worked with Dr. Mary Laura Lind on the production of a reverse osmosis molecular sieve inclusion mixed matrix membrane for potable water recovery.
Interdisciplinary
FSE 194: Perspectives on Grand Challenges of Engineering
PUP 301: Introduction to Urban Planning
Entrepreneurship
FSE 301: Entrepreneurship for Engineers
IEE 220: Business & Industrial Engineering
Global Dimension
GPH 210: Society & Environment
GPH 314: Global Change
Service Learning
Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS): Worked on the House of Refugee project and Kenyan Mango Peeler project
Hara Kumar
Theme: Energy
From a young age, Hara realized the importance of energy in our lives and the importance of conserving our energy consumption. He took to living a life dedicated to conserving energy as he recognizes that working to conserve your personal energy consumption is the single most important that an individual can positively benefit the environment. He chose a major in Engineering Management because he “reasoned that being able to influence policy decisions and affect standards would be the best way to maximize [his] contribution to any field.”
Research Experience
Hara participated in the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program where he worked with Energize Phoenix.
Interdisciplinary
FSE 194: Perspective of the Grand Challenges of Engineering
European Eurasian Energy Policy: study abroad in Finland
Entrepreneurship
Demola: study abroad in Finland
FSE 301: Entrepreneurship for Engineers
Global Dimension
Interacting Interculturally: study abroad in Finland
Global Risk & Environmental Security: study abroad in Finland
Service Learning
Engineers without Borders: Worked as the Shonto Program Manager where he prioritized and formalized infrasturcutre projects into a partnership between the Shonto capter of the Navajo nation and the SU chapter of Engineers without Borders.
Sami Mian
Theme: Energy
Sami entered the Grand Challenge Scholars conflicted between two themes, security and energy, and ultimately chose to focus on energy. He came to realize that a major need in computer engineering is improving efficiency by using less energy. By learning to conserve energy, we can also conserve our resources. As our society becomes more dependent on electronic devices and computers, the need to conserve energy is more important than ever. He recognizes the problems arising with fossil fuels, pollution, and diminishing resources and plans to “help lower the requirements and usage of energy, as well as help encourage research into cleaner energy sources.”
Research Experience
Sami participated in the Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative (FURI) program where he worked with Dr. Martin Reisslein and his Wireless Video Sensor Network Project Group (WVSNP). He focused on developing and testing a way to transmit high-bandwidth data over large distances using a low-powered solution.
Interdisciplinary
FSE 150: Grand Challenges for Engineering
SOC 334: Society & Technology
Entrepreneurship
FSE 301: Entrepreneurship & Value Creation
Changemaker Innovation Challenge
Global Dimension
COM 263: Elements of Intercultural Communications
Sustainability & Development: study abroad in China
Service Learning
Fulton Ambassadors: Representative of the Fulton School for incoming students
Arizona First Lego League tournaments: Judged and organized the tournaments both at ASU and in the community.
Tony Nguyen
Theme: Sustainability
When Tony became aware of his Vietnamese culture, the poor health its citizens are in and the contaminated water supply, he knew that he needed to use his knowledge in engineering to improve the area’s conditions. He chose a theme in sustainability because he plans to conserve today’s resources for our use and needs in the future. Tony recognizes that engineers are real heroes as engineers have the resources, skills, and knowledge to improve the world. By taking courses focused on interdisciplinary aspects of engineering, he gained a broader knowledge of the world and its numerous problems and how these broad aspects relate to his central goal of sustainability. For Tony, a quote that exemplifies his engineering and college experience is one from Albert Einstein: “We can’t expect to solve a problem using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.”
Research Experience
Tony volunteered in Dr. Mary Laura Lind’s lab where he worked on the development of mixed matrix membranes.
Interdisciplinary
FSE 194: Perspectives on Grand Challenges of Engineering
POS 394: Introduction to Science & Technology Policy
Entrepreneurship
FSE 301: Entrepreneurship for Engineers
IEE 220: Business & Industrial Engineering
Global Dimension
STS 332: Global Issues in Science & Technology
COM 263: Elements of Intercultural Communication
Service Learning
Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS): Worked on the House of Refugee project
Fulton Ambassadors: Representative of the Fulton School for incoming students, and served as the Recruitment Director.
Frederick Sebastian
Theme: Health
Dallas Sigrist
Theme: Security
Dallas’ interest in surveillance systems, weapons, and aircraft prompted him to pursue a theme in security. Though he had an interest in other themes–including health, energy, and sustainability–security seemed most logical and applicable to his passions and major in Chemical Engineering. The Grand Challenge Scholars Program allowed him to have a more interdisciplinary academic experience. He learned about various business principles and intellectual property in his entrepreneurship courses, and he learned about how security relates to wars in his global courses.
Research Experience
Dallas worked in Dr. Jeremy Lin’s lab, focusing on the investigation of the diffusion rates of hexane through a specific Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework, ZIF-68. In short, this project works towards removing toxic organic vapors in the case of a chemical warfare.
Interdisciplinary
FSE 194: Perspectives on Grand Challenges for Engineering
PHI 320/BIO 312: Bioethics
Entrepreneurship
FSE 301: Entrepreneurship for Engineers
IEE 220: Business & Industrial Engineering
Global Dimension
POS 467: International Security & Conflict
STS 332: Global Issues in Science & Technology
Service Learning
Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS): Created an organization called Students Encouraging Returning Veterans in Education (SERVE), then joined a project called Keeping Phoenix Beautiful (KPB).
Swetha Swaminathan
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
To Swetha, “the perfect engineer is just like the perfect Starbucks drink: a creative problem-solver who is capable of working tirelessly to ensure success.” As a biomedical engineer, it seemed only fiiting for Swetha to choose a theme in health. Her desire to improve healthcare for the world encouraged her to search for ways she could increase her knowledge and experience to enable her to do just that. An interest in cancer research, drug delivery systems, and autoimmune diseases drove her to research the grand challenge of engineering better medicines. Her research and experience opened her eyes to the everyday applications of biomedical engineering, and she hopes to work to integrate the study of biomedical engineering into elementary education. “I was eager to learn how I could do my part, and this program truly showed me how biomedical engineering was the segway to success, a way to inspire others while continually inspiring myself.”
Research Experience
Swetha aligned her research experience with her Honors thesis and focused on the themes of health and education in a project entitled Build-a-Hero: Enhancing Biomedical Engineering as a Socially Relevant Discipline. This is a weeklong after-school experience for elementary-aged students where they will learn about and understand biomedical engineering through hands-on activities.
Interdisciplinary
FSE 194: Perspectives for Grand Challenges on Engineering
ASB 462: Medical Anthropology: Culture & Health
Entrepreneurship
FSE 301: Entrepreneurship & Value Creation
MGT 290: My Life Venture
Global Dimension
MIC 314: HIV/AIDS: Science, Behavior, & Society
Visualization & Simulation study abroad program: Tokyo, Japan
Service Learning
ASU PreK-12 internship program: This internship involved communicating the importance and relevance of engineering to elementary, middle school, and high school students.
Mentored at the Fulton summer engineering camp: Participated as a student ambassador and mentor at the water science camp at the Kyrene School District.
2015 GCSP Graduates
Markey Olson
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health
Heather Martin
Major: Electrical Engineering
Theme: Health
Kevin Tyler
Major: Electrical Engineering
Theme: Sustainability
2013 GCSP Graduates
Pankti Shah
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Theme: Health