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Drawn to work that shapes cities and improves daily life, Fatin Rahman is majoring in civil engineering to make a tangible impact on the world.

“I chose civil engineering because of how broad and important it is across industries,” says Rahman, who grew up in Bangladesh and later lived in Egypt. “The range of opportunities, from construction to transportation, is so exciting to me. Standing at the threshold of so many career paths, I often read through alumni journeys for inspiration.” 

With the help of faculty and С����Ƶ’s , she landed a six-month engineering co-op at the Massachusetts Department of Transportation as a member of the bridge preservation team.

“UML’s co-op program has been exceptional,” says Rahman, who is minoring in mathematics. “The faculty here truly want you to succeed and help you in any way they can to set you up for the future.”

Beyond academics, Rahman is a leader across campus. A member of the Honors College, she previously served as an Honors Orientation Peer, helping new students adjust to college life, which was a role that reshaped her sense of purpose. 

“Serving as an Honors Orientation Peer was pivotal,” says Rahman. “I realized how much I value giving back to the community.”

Since then, Rahman has taken on an impressive number of leadership positions, including Well-Being Leader, Student Ambassador, International Students Peer Leader and Student Alumni Ambassador. Yet, her most meaningful involvement is with UML’s Society of Women Engineers, where she currently serves as vice president. 

“I’ve learned so much, from running for elections as an eager sophomore with no experience to now working with industry partners to create opportunities for young women,” says Rahman.

Attending the Society of Women Engineers National Conference in New Orleans proved transformative for Rahman. Surrounded by her peers in engineering and industry leaders, Rahman’s perspective changed.

“I started asking myself, ‘Why can’t I be on that stage one day?’” she says.

Thanks to a sponsorship from the Civil Engineering Department, Rahman and a classmate are attending the 2026 Women Who Build Summit, hosted by the Construction Institute, at UMass Amherst.

“I truly believe in the power of these events,” says Rahman. “I’m able to network and gain insights into career paths, which you just can’t get in a classroom. It’s all about building that real-world experience.”

Looking ahead, Rahman hopes to work in transportation or structural engineering, while also remaining deeply involved in community leadership.