Statement of Purpose

My decision to choose environmental engineering as my undergraduate major in civil engineering was

motivated by the idea of a "safe and sustainable environment with suitable urbanization for all living
beings." My hometown is Chandpur, and during every rainy season when I was a youngster, I would
practically always witness flood water entering our home's ground level. I suffered a variety of health
problems in 2011 after relocating to Dhaka because of the abrupt change in air quality, and I could sense
how much-uncontrolled development had polluted this area's air, water, soil, and other environmental
components. The tremendous degree of sound pollution and haphazard deforestation shocked me. I have
always had a profound affection for the environment and animals, and I was saddened to witness Mother
Nature's utter devastation all around me. I wanted to do something to preserve the environment, but not at
the cost of civilization's advancement. I adore the idea of urbanization, civilization, and technological
development done sustainably. It is possible with the aid of effective civil engineering. I so want to pursue
further courses in civil engineering with a focus on environmental engineering and continue building my
career in this field. I've always been curious about scientific theories and new information, with a preference
for mathematics and physics. I completed successfully the S.S.C. and H.S.C. exams with a GPA of 5.00 from
the Dhaka Board. After passing the HSC examination, I was allowed to pursue my bachelor's degree in the
Department of Civil Engineering at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), arguably
the top-ranked university in Bangladesh. With a CGPA of 2.80 on a scale of 4.00, I graduated in 2021. My
bachelor's degree in civil engineering major in environmental engineering, with transportation engineering
as the minor. My CGPA fell below 3.00 on a scale of 4.00 as a result of several health and family-related
difficulties. I also never failed a departmental or non-departmental theoretical or sessional course, except CE
204 (Computer Programming Sessional), which I retook and passed in the year after failing it. On the
Coursera online learning platform, I enrolled in a few courses, including MS Excel specialization,
environmental laws, an overview of solar system energy, an introduction to climate change and health, and
indoor air quality. I started working with the Institute of Water Modelling (IWM) as a Junior Design Engineer
on June 9th, 2022. Working there is assisting me in better understanding the hydraulic structures' design
logic, building processes, and methods. This has assisted me in re-polishing my expertise in the AutoCAD
program. I started various part-time jobs while pursuing my college studies to support myself financially
because I don't come from a very wealthy household. In addition, I struggled with serious physical and
mental health problems that made it extremely difficult for me to maintain part-time work and finish my
education at the same time. My family was always there for me throughout those difficult times. I wouldn't
be who I am now without their unwavering support. I learned from my family to never give up on your
aspirations. I took a break from academics and struggles after my undergraduate years, and I can say that I
am a lot better today, both physically and emotionally, and I am confident to pursue my studies for a
master's in civil engineering. I am in the right frame of mind at that precise moment to do everything in my
power to accomplish my goal. My undergrad thesis topic was on Situation Analysis of Toilet Systems in
Railways and Waterways Transport Modes in Bangladesh. I worked under the supervision of Dr. Rowshan
Mamtaz, Professor, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, on reviewing the state of fecal
sludge management in various modes of transportation, including railways, waterways, and roads in
Bangladesh and other regions of the world, examining the differences in fecal sludge management of toilets
in various modes of transportation between Bangladesh and other nations, identifying barriers to improving
toilets in movements in Bangladesh, and finally suggesting some likely improvements to toilets in
movements. Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are among the programs in which I am proficient. I am
also skilled in record keeping, reporting, teaching, and training many subjects. I have experience in
quantitative surveying from my undergraduate coursework, and I excel at data review and analysis. I am
skilled in creating poems, sketching, painting, and portraying natural settings and living things. I specialize in
public speaking, editing, and playing musical instruments. While working at my part-time work, I not only
developed my intellectual talents but also significantly enhanced my social abilities. I occasionally had to
decide quickly and with great importance. I grew fairly skilled at efficient communication and active
listening. This type of exercise helped me become a better team worker and taught me to trust my gut when
I'm making decisions on my own. I am certain that the Department of Civil Engineering will view me as the
ideal candidate for the post-graduate program due to my academic background and the aforementioned
talents. If granted the chance, I look forward to contributing to the program's continued success and
changing the world for the better with my efforts.
Sincerely,
Mahira Tasnim