Graduate Student Looks Forward to Beginning Career in Civil Engineering

When Saron Hagos ’22 M.S. was growing up in Eritrea, a country of six million in Africa, her father, a civil engineer, sometimes brought her and her siblings with him to construction sites. Those trips sparked an interest in civil engineering at an early age, and she has always been impressed by structures and how much effort goes into creating them.

Hagos, who will receive her master’s degree in civil engineering at Spring Commencement, is excited that her family will be coming from Eritrea nearly 7,000 miles away, to attend the celebration.

“My accomplishments are the result of not just my hard work and dedication, but also the emotional and financial support of my entire family,” she said. “They have supported me from the day I left Eritrea three years ago. It makes me so pleased and grateful that my family will rejoice over my accomplishment, since it is also theirs.”

‘One of my favorite recent memories’

Hagos describes Eritrea as a small and beautiful country in eastern Africa, explaining that it is a diverse nation where the people are known for their hospitality. As a Charger, she was excited to share her culture with the University community and to learn about other cultures.

"Working as a structural engineer is something I’ve always wanted to do."Saron Hagos ’22 M.S.

President of the University’s African Graduate Student Association, Hagos helped host events and was involved with a variety of activities at the University. She and her fellow members of the organization welcomed new African students, helping them settle in and offering them support. They also celebrated their culture with the University community as part of the International Festival.

“Participating in I-Fest with other international students is one of my favorite recent memories,” said Hagos. “We displayed tables with various cultural dishes. It allowed us to share our foods and culture while also learning about the cultures and delicacies of other countries.”

‘Something I’ve always wanted to do’

Hagos, who enjoys mathematics and physics, served as a research assistant in the University’s Civil Engineering Department, working with Byungik Chang, Ph.D., P.E., MBA. After Commencement, she plans to work as a structural engineer for SGH in Boston, Massachusetts. After gaining more experience over the next several years, she plans to pursue her doctorate.

“Working as a structural engineer is something I’ve always wanted to do,” she said. “The University assisted me in making connections with students and faculty members from various backgrounds and experiences, and that enabled me to expand my knowledge and get more familiar with different experiences and skills.”