Fulbright alumnus Abderrahmane
before his presentation on the benefits of piezoelectricity, a clean way of
generating electricity using mechanical pressure
Attending
conferences has always provided me with new ideas and perspectives, but
participating in the Fulbright Alumni Regional Conference on Natural Resources
in Cairo, Egypt from December 4-6, 2016 was particularly beneficial. As a
participant, I had the chance to network with an amazing group of Fulbright
alumni who work in fields as diverse as meteorology, renewable energy and
architecture. Conversing with these Fulbrighters and learning from their
research was a wonderful personal and professional experience for me.
Nataly, another Fulbright
alumna attending the conference, shares her research on fighting cancer using
plant-based compounds
The
research presentations I listened to were rich in information and insightful.
For example, from one presentation, I learned about a new method of treating
cancer by using organic chemical compounds. I was also introduced to the
presenter’s admirable Alumni
Community Action Grant project, Pink Steps Lebanon, which
helps breast cancer survivors live a healthy lifestyle. This part of the conference
broadened my perspective on how to contribute to society, and it gave me a
better idea of the types of projects funded by the Fulbright Alumni Community
Action Grant. Through yet another presentation, I was amazed to learn that the
cheapest solar installation on record is in Abu Dhabi, a byproduct of that city’s
expansion of renewables. For my presentation, I was able to draw on the
knowledge I gained as an Electrical Engineering student at the University of
Arkansas. I spoke to the group about the benefits of piezoelectricity, which is
a clean way of generating electricity using mechanical pressure.
Abderrahmane and fellow
Fulbright alumnus Adnan meet before the conference
In
addition to the engaging academic atmosphere, the conference was also a
fantastic Fulbright networking opportunity. For example, I talked with an alum
who spoke three languages with a perfect accent and full proficiency. That was
amazing! I also met a Fulbrighter who is a very successful author and blogger. That
conversation inspired me to start writing about topics that I am passionate about.
Overall, the Alumni Conference gave me the opportunity to learn from
successful, dedicated professionals in the field of Natural Resources. This was
a unique growing experience because it provided me with valuable insight into
how others have learned to follow their passions.
Abderrahmane
is an alumnus of the Fulbright Foreign Student Program. He graduated in 2016 from the
University of Arkansas where he earned a master’s degree in electrical
engineering.
