Major: MS in Electrical Engineering
Hometown: Malawi, Blantyre
Ask Grace a Question
When did you become interested in engineering?
At a tender age, I developed an interest in science and mathematics and wanted to continue doing this. I come from a background where I had no role model in engineering, and I had many questions that led me to the engineering path. As I started to study engineering, my interest grew, and I had so much to share. As such, I wanted to bridge the gap that was there due to a lack of information. I later started visiting students to inform them about engineering through an organization I founded called FAR.
What made you choose Drexel’s graduate school?
I was looking for a place I could call home, and during my research, I noticed that Drexel had a great international student office and other programs that help students excel. In addition, I wanted an institution where I would get theoretical and practical knowledge through the co-op program. These factors made Drexel my top priority. Now that I am here at Drexel, I realize that I made the best decision; the professors are very professional and experienced, ensuring that every student is up-to-date and understands the topics.
Tell us about some of your research and career plans
I have developed an interest in furthering my education here at Drexel University. My interest is in alternative energy and electronics applications. In my community, only 20% of the population has electricity, and I know that the knowledge from this will directly impact Malawians. I have already identified different professors, like Professors Kelvin J. Scoles and Thomas Halpin.
What extracurricular activities do you enjoy?
I love volunteering and serving my community or reaching out to underprivileged people and becoming a helping hand. This also provides a platform for me to learn from different people. I am also a farmer, growing legumes and planting pine trees.
What advice would you give students thinking of attending graduate school?
Ambitions can't wait; you should start applying for grad school, believe you can do it, and start working on it. You can only know how far you can go if you start. Drexel has a wide range of programs, and the staff at Drexel are always ready to provide support, whether academic or beyond.