Originally From: Olongapo City, Philippines
Fellowship Start Date: Spring 2021
Research Subdiscipline: Structural and Earthquake Engineering
Research Advisor Dr. Moustafa

What inspired you to pursue a PhD?

Having a higher education had always been a struggle especially for people like us who belong to minority groups. Coming from a poor country, I have seen how higher education can make a difference in the lives of not only the person but also for the community to which he or she belongs. These events inspired me to pursue higher education and to make a difference that can improve the lives of others. With this advantage on my hand, I will be able to support different initiatives that inspire young people to go for research and develop new technologies that can be used for the future growth of this country. With the support from GAANN, I am excited to start this journey and eventually make an impact in the research community.

What are you most interested in learning more about during your PhD study?

I have always been interested in developing new ways to improve the structural integrity of structures. With the technology on our hands, I am aiming to develop new techniques for modeling emerging new materials such as Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC). Hopefully, in the next 20 years, UHPC will be widely accepted as new material in construction. In addition, I wanted to advance myself in programming, which will tremendously help my goal in understanding the behavior of UHPC both as a material and a structural component.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I enjoy being with my friends and tour different places, especially in California and Nevada. I always love trying different food and immersed ourselves in other cultures.