Student Spotlight September 2017

    Sadaf Ahmed

     

     

     

    Sadaf graduated in 2015 with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Louisville, where she majored in Chemical Engineering. She is a Master’s student in the Computer Engineering Computer Science department, and currently holds a position as a Graduate Assistant in the Graduate School.

     

     

     

    Interview:

    1. What brought you to the University of Louisville?

    I was drawn to the campus culture and diversity.  The faculty in my department is also incredibly friendly and supportive, going above and beyond to ensure the success of every student in the program.

    2. Specific areas of research (how you chose this research, why it interested you):

    I have an interest in data science and ethical engineering. I want to find a use for data science for social justice.

    3. How would you describe your area of study/ specific research to your grandmother?

    My grandmother is the most intelligent woman I’ve ever met. I would tell her I’m trying to learn more about society using computers.

    4. What made you go into this field of study?

    I have always wanted to make a positive impact in my community on a local level. I’ve worked with nonprofits around Louisville and have seen some of the issues this community was facing. I think there is a lot of impact to be made through data analytics. The idea of extracting knowledge out of numbers gets me out of bed

    5. Long-term goals/aspirations:
    I want to help influence policy. I want to help society in the way it needs help--according to the data, rather than just guessing.

    6. What has been your favorite part of the graduate school experience at UofL?

    All the opportunities available to me and wonderful people that I’ve met and will to meet.

    7. What do you feel is the greatest challenge that graduate students face and how have you dealt with this challenge?

    Well I can’t speak for everyone else but for me it has been wanting to do everything and not having enough time. I want to join more student groups, work with more professors, help with more projects, etc.

    8. Family life:

    I grew up in rural Kentucky with a huge family of boys: me vs. 8 brothers.


    Fun Facts
    A talent you have always wanted: I’ve always wanted to be able to sing well
    Favorite book: Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
    Favorite quote: “Consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative.” -Oscar Wilde
    Role Model: Muhammad Ali
    Favorite Vacation Destination: California
    If you weren’t in graduate school, what would you be doing now? Looking for my break into reality television.