Abdifatah Ali

Patti Grace Smith Fellow, Class of 2022
University of Cincinnati , Mechanical Engineering, ‘26
Host Institution: Virgin Orbit

My name is Abdifatah Ali. I'm a First year student in the College of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Cincinnati studying Mechanical Engineering with University Honors Program. My desire to study Engineering from the practical application of Maths and Physics to real-world situations to enhance and improve them is a field that I find fascinating and perplexing. After partaking in different engineering-based experiences, I learned how varied and inclusive this subject is, and that is the reason I want to study Engineering at University. My ambition and desire are to explore the world of Engineering and solve complex problems that as we humans face. In high school, I led a design team that built a competition crane per TEAMS specification, and co-wrote a research essay with my team. Our team was placed 3rd position in the State competition. I also participated in the Duke Energy Navigo Scholars Program during high school which allowed me to build upon my knowledge of Engineering, CAD, GIS, IT & Solar Energy. Improved my interviewing, and networking skills. Thus, I have found that the foundations of technology I'm being exposed to, paired with my experiential learning opportunities, have given me a unique approach to continually grow professionally and personally at an exceptional level. Through my professional experience and coursework, I have gained skills that focus on Mechanical Design, Aviation Systems, and Programming. In addition to my coursework, I have had the opportunity to be involved in various activities at my school and have joined organizations on campus. I'm currently an active member of the National Society of Black Engineers of UC; Engineers without Borders and UC Hyperloop clubs. As a first-generation student, my utmost goal is to graduate from the University of Cincinnati with my Engineering Degree. Upon my graduation from college, I aspire to work for an Aerospace company and contribute to revolutionizing space technology while also using my engineering education to solve complicated societal problems such as creating sustainable solutions. Therefore, this will allow me to reach my future endeavors of becoming a successful first-generation Mechanical Engineer with the ultimate goal of joining the Engineers Without Borders USA initiatives to help and empower communities around the world to meet their basic human needs.