2022 Structural Engineering Award of Excellence: Ramtin Azarbad

Every year, six outstanding undergraduate students who made significant contributions to their academic department and the Jacobs School of Engineering community are celebrated with department Awards of Excellence at the Ring Ceremony event for graduating undergraduates.

The 2022 Structural Engineering Award of Excellence was awarded to Ramtin Azarbad. Learn more about his background and future plans in this Q&A.

What do you enjoy about structural engineering, or why did you decide to pursue this field?

What has fascinated me about this field is that the projects we work on have tangible applications; you may pass by the building you helped design and can see how it has changed the landscape of the city. Aside from the major itself, the Structural Engineering community is filled with the most helpful individuals I have encountered in my four years here at UC San Diego. The upperclassmen are enthusiastic to give you advice on coursework and work-life, the peers would seize every opportunity to help you if you do not understand a topic, and the faculty is there if you need assistance and guidance.

Were you involved in any activities/groups/clubs/research labs on campus that were impactful during your time at UC San Diego?

I served as the Vice President of Development and Co-president at the Society of Civil and Structural Engineers (SCSE) for the past two years. Additionally, at SCSE, I was the technical events director for the Pacific Southwest Symposium at UC San Diego, which hosted 850+ students competing in various engineering competitions. I also served as the Vice President of Service at Circle K International at UC San Diego, providing service opportunities for the members. 

 Do you have any advice for current or future engineering students?

Step up when the opportunities arise to learn and lead. From joining a club to doing research, these opportunities are countless at UC San Diego, and can give you valuable friendships and important skills.

 Any idea what you'll do next year, or what you hope to accomplish with your degree?

Next year I will be pursuing a master’s degree in structural design and analysis here at UC San Diego. I hope to use what I learn to get a full-time position as a structural designer upon graduation.

Anything else that's important to know about your time and experience at the Jacobs School?

Engineering is definitely challenging and hard to navigate alone. It is important to seize every opportunity to get help from TAs, professors, peers, and academic support offered through the university. It is also important to make sure you save some time for your leisure and hobbies. Four years pass by quickly and you grow to miss the moments you had in college, so make sure you spend some time with friends and experience the college.