After a traumatic brain injury, computer science and engineering student Ayush Saha rebuilt his life and launched a mission to solve real-world problems through data, teamwork and code. At UC Davis, he’s flipped setbacks into strength — both in the lab and on the mat.
Two first-generation UC Davis engineers, Rui Ming Yu and Krystle Catamura, are honored for their perseverance, purpose and impact. From mentoring in STEM to championing environmental justice, their journeys show how curiosity and courage can help shape California's future.
Each year, the departments recognize 13 graduating seniors for showing exceptional leadership, academic achievement and service both in and out of the classroom.
The UC Davis College of Engineering proudly congratulates all Aggie Engineers in the Class of 2024! Meet our 13 Outstanding Senior Award recipients, who have demonstrated the best in leadership, academic achievement and service both in and out of the classroom.
Hailing from San Jose, California, Flores reflects on her time at the UC Davis College of Engineering with fond memories. Her favorite memories include going bowling with other Aggie Engineers after presenting large projects and being inspired by engineering professors who show passion for the field.
As a first-generation college student, Man Yu, a graduating senior in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, or ECE, knew he had to do something incredible to make his family proud. When he was in high school weighing his career pathway options, his parents encouraged him to choose ECE.
For Joseph Morrison, a graduating senior in the Department of Biomedical Engineering, or BME, this Saturday’s commencement ceremony is just the beginning of his educational journey. After graduation, he plans on earning his MD and Ph.D., which will take him eight to nine years.
Where many might fear failure, Muhammad D Arshad, a graduating senior studying civil engineering, embraces it. He believes that failure, combined with a bit of hope, will result in success.
Our next #SeniorSpotlight is Derek Lee, a computer engineering major and Class of 2020 graduate!
One of Derek’s favorite memories from his time at UC Davis was working with the College of Engineering and his professors to sponsor SacHacks, the first major intercollegiate hackathon in the Sacramento area, as that made him feel closer to the faculty.
Derek starts his software engineering job in January and his advice to incoming engineering students is to focus on extracurricular activities if you do not plan on going to grad school.
Our first #SeniorSpotlight is Zoren Habana, a mechanical and aerospace engineering Class of 2020 graduate! Some of Zoren’s favorite memories were made in the Bainer Hall computer lab, where he solidified many friendships with fellow engineers.
“I would spend nights at the computer lab finishing up homework and projects, but it wasn't so bad since I was around my friends and colleagues,” said Zoren. “I cherish the memories I made in the computer lab because of how much time I spent there struggling with my colleagues to get work done. Misery definitely loves company.”
