Meet a CBEE-er! Jasmine Ives, is a Chemical Engineering major on the Environmental Engineering and Sustainability track. Hear about why she chose UMBC, what research she is involved with, and what she loves about the chemical engineering program.

To learn more about undergraduate programs in UMBC's Department of Chemical, Biochemical, and Environmental Engineering, visit us at: https://cbee.umbc.edu/academics/prospective-undergrads/

Watch all CBEE-er Profiles

Meet a CBEE-er! Kelsey Gray is a Ph.D. Student in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering at UMBC. Hear about why he chose UMBC, what research he's working on, and what he loves about the chemical and biochemical engineering program at UMBC!

“When I visited this place it felt like home. The support, the way I was welcomed, I knew I had to be here.” -- Kelsey Gray, Ph.D. student, Chemical and Biochemical Engineering 

To learn more about Graduate Programs in UMBC's Department of Chemical, Biochemical, and Environmental Engineering, visit us at: https://cbee.umbc.edu/grad/

Watch all CBEE-er Profiles

Meet a CBEE-er! Joshua Dayie is a Chemical Engineering major on the Biotechnology and Bioengineering track. Hear about why he chose UMBC, what research he's working on, and what he loves about the chemical engineering program!

"There [are] really great mentors that guide you through every single step of the way and help you feel prepared every single semester that you’re here." - Joshua Dayie

To learn more about Undergraduate Program in UMBC's Department of Chemical, Biochemical, and Environmental Engineering, visit us at: https://cbee.umbc.edu/academics/prospective-undergrads/

Watch all CBEE-er Profiles

Meet a CBEE-er! Meredith Morse is a Chemical Engineering major on the Biotechnology and Bioengineering track. Hear about why she chose UMBC, what research she's working on, and what she loves about the chemical engineering program!

"The professors really make themselves approachable and it’s given a lot of opportunities for me to connect with them and find mentors" - Meredith Morse

To learn more about Undergraduate Program in UMBC's Department of Chemical, Biochemical, and Environmental Engineering, visit us at: https://cbee.umbc.edu/academics/prospective-undergrads/

Watch all CBEE-er Profiles

by: Arya Honraopatil

Meet Samiha Sharlin. 

Samiha Sharlin is a chemical and biochemical engineering doctoral student in the department of Chemical, Biochemical and Environmental Engineering. Samiha received her B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) in 2017. She is now pursuing her Ph.D. in the ATOMS Lab under the supervision of Prof. Tyler Josephson, where her research focuses on enhancing simulation methods for adsorption in porous materials using machine learning. In her free time, she enjoys exploring nature and tuning in to spiritual podcasts.

Tell us about your path to UMBC.

After completing my engineering degree, I entered the workforce and found myself in a job not aligned with my academic background. Despite being promised a research-oriented position, I ended up in Supply Chain Management, which left me feeling unfulfilled and disconnected from my passion for research and engineering. Additionally, the majority of the industry jobs I desired were located in unsafe areas on the outskirts of the country, creating further challenges and concerns. These experiences sparked a profound realization that I wanted to be in academics and continue my studies.

In my search for the right institution, I sought recommendations from trusted sources, and one of my friends from undergrad school spoke highly about her experiences at UMBC. As I researched colleges in the USA, UMBC consistently stood out to me as an inclusive and supportive community. UMBC has not only provided me with a platform to explore and grow academically but has also offered a supportive and inspiring community that has truly enriched my journey.

left to right: Dr. Josephson, Parivash Feyzishendi & Samiha Sharlin outside of UMBC's University Center in Spring/Summer 2023. Photo Credit: Sharlin Sharlin

What do you love about CBEE? 

"Prioritize people over projects” - I have always believed in this! And especially in graduate school, the journey can be long, and being in a supportive environment is crucial. At CBEE, I've found the best of both worlds – a community that values individuals and fosters meaningful projects. The warmth and close-knit community in this department is truly special. You instantly feel connected with the professors, and they genuinely listen and value your input.

Let me share a heartwarming incident that illustrates this point - When I first arrived, I had come in quite late - just one day before classes began. Unfortunately, I missed orientation and also hadn't registered for classes. I wasn’t sure if I could attend classes without registration which resulted in me missing my first class. However, when Dr. Raikar saw me wandering in the department hallway, she already knew my name and warmly approached me. To my surprise and delight, she graciously shared the notes for the class I had missed without hesitation. It made me feel incredibly welcomed and supported right from the start. This kind of caring and personal attention has been a consistent experience throughout my time at CBEE, and it has deepened my appreciation for this wonderful community.

What do you love about your academic program?

One of the things that sets CBEE apart is its unique combination of biochemical, chemical, and environmental disciplines within the same department, which is a rarity among engineering programs. This was especially beneficial for me because I was uncertain about which track to pursue for graduate school. CBEE offered the opportunity to do rotations, allowing me to explore different options before committing to a specific research direction. As an international student, it was challenging to visit labs beforehand, and CBEE's approach gave me the freedom to make an informed decision.

Another invaluable aspect of CBEE is its mentor-mentee program, through which I had the privilege of connecting with Maisha, a UMBC alumnus now who was also an international student from Bangladesh. Maisha’s support and guidance were exceptional – she assisted me not only in academic matters but also in various smaller details I was unfamiliar with, including documentation and personal chores. Her willingness to help and incredible support made my transition to UMBC and the graduate program much smoother. The sense of camaraderie and support within CBEE truly made all the difference in my graduate school experience.

Additionally, CBEE also places emphasis on networking to cultivate strong professional connections and provides us with opportunities to meet alumni and industry professionals through career development events throughout the academic year. My advisor has also consistently encouraged me to attend conferences, allowing me to network with leaders in my field of research while also presenting my work. Last year, I had the opportunity to present at an AIChE conference in Phoenix, and this summer, I participated in a week-long program at the Micron School of Materials Science and Engineering at Boise State University to learn the applications of quantum chemistry. Through this, I have had the privilege of getting to know many talented individuals in my discipline who are working on exciting research projects. I always come away from these experiences with meaningful connections and inspiring ideas that drive me to work harder and approach my projects in creative ways.

Samiha Sharlin standing beside her poster at the 2022 AICHE Annual Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona. The poster is titled MONTE CARLO SIMULATIONS PREDICTING ADSORPTION OF 1,4-DIOXANE IN ALL-SILICA ZEOLITES. Photo Credit: Samiha Sharlin

Tell us about someone in the department who has inspired you or supported you & how did they do it?

Andrea [Miller, Graduate Program Coordinator] has been an incredible support throughout my time at CBEE. With her, I never hesitate to seek advice or ask questions because she creates a comfortable and open atmosphere. Despite usually struggling to ask for help, I've never felt that hesitation in her presence.

Dr. Leach, as the Graduate Program Director, was also a significant source of support for me during the lab rotations. And, of course, I can't speak highly enough about my advisor, Dr. Josephson. He has consistently gone above and beyond to understand and assist me, particularly considering the challenges of being a first-gen international student. In fact, the entire department has been incredibly supportive, and I've always felt their genuine dedication to helping students succeed.

What’s the one thing you’d want someone who hasn’t joined the UMBC community to know about the support you find here?

As I've emphasized earlier, the people you surround yourself with are of utmost importance. At CBEE, you'll discover an environment that is truly conducive to learning and growth - supporting you academically, professionally, and personally. UMBC also offers a wide range of student organizations that cater to diverse student interests. UMBC MSA (Muslim Student Association) has given me a sense of belonging and comfort that I did not expect to find in college. I am grateful for the wonderful people I have met through them and the positive and uplifting atmosphere they foster.

What would you tell others who are in your shoes at UMBC?

After coming here, I felt like I was in a race at first, and I couldn't help but feel that I was falling behind in every aspect of life. However, as I looked around and saw the diverse backgrounds and unique stories of everyone, I had a deep realization and learned to make peace with my timeline and embrace the individuality of my path. Now, this experience has transformed into a truly rewarding journey.

Embarking on this adventure of pursuing my dreams in a foreign land, far away from my family and friends, was a daunting decision. Yet, with time, I discovered my way and something truly special: a new family of friends who have made this journey far more meaningful and fulfilling!

The 2023 participants for the I-COMSE workshop on Fundamentals and Applications of Density Functional Theory at the Micron School of Materials Science and Engineering at Boise State University. Photo provided by Samiha Sharlin. 

Catherine Wraback, '23 chemical engineering, traditional track and AIChE co-president 

Meet Catherine Wraback, a senior in the chemical engineering traditional track, President of the AIChE student organization, and a CWIT (Center for Women in Technology) Scholar. Catherine was also the President of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) ChemE Jeopardy team which won first place at the 2022 national competition. She will be heading to GE Aerospace to become a part of the Edison Engineering Development Program. Take it away, Catherine! 

Catherine Wraback, chemical engineering '23, poses in the GE Aerospace office after accepting the Edison Engineering Development Program offer. Image courtesy of Wraback.

Q: Why did you choose UMBC?

The Chemical, Biochemical, and Environmental Engineering (CBEE) department at UMBC has a strong sense of community, which I experienced firsthand during a campus tour. I was impressed by the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the department, and it was clear that the faculty and students form a close-knit group. One of the main reasons why I was attracted to UMBC is the family-like environment within the CBEE department, where professors and staff not only care about the academic success of their students, but also their personal well-being. This dynamic ensures that students receive the support they need to thrive both personally and professionally.

Q: Tell us about someone in the department who has inspired you or supported you & how did they do it?

Dr. Raikar and Dr. Castellanos are remarkable professors at UMBC, who go above and beyond to support their students. Dr. Raikar is known for her open-door policy, which makes her approachable to all students, and she is always willing to lend an ear and provide guidance on any topic. Her classes are not only inspiring, but also challenging and intellectually stimulating, which keeps students engaged and motivated.

Dr. Castellanos is an advocate for the needs of her students and encourages them to approach problem-solving from a holistic perspective, considering the broader impact on society. Her passion for thermodynamics is contagious and inspires her students to develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter. 

Both Dr. Raikar and Dr. Castellanos are instrumental in running the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChe) at UMBC. Their guidance and support ensure that the student organization runs smoothly and provides a valuable platform for students to develop their leadership skills, network with peers and professionals, and participate in various academic and social events.

Q: What do you love about your academic program?

The chemical engineering bachelor's program at UMBC offers a variety of tracks, which allows students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. One of the most beneficial aspects of the program is the ability to choose elective courses, which provides students with the flexibility to customize their curriculum and explore various topics in depth. I particularly appreciated the ample opportunities to take labs, which provided me with hands-on experience and helped me develop my practical skills. Additionally, the program encourages students to design their own projects, which fosters creativity and innovation, and provides a platform to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Q: What clubs and orgs are you a part of and why? How was that experience?

I have had the privilege of serving as the President of the AIChE chapter at UMBC, as well as being a part of the Jeopardy Team, which has won at both the regional and national level. I am on the women's ultimate frisbee team at UMBC and attend practice twice a week. Being involved in these extracurricular activities has taught me valuable lessons in teamwork, conflict resolution, and leadership. Through these experiences, I have learned to approach disagreements with empathy and respect for diverse perspectives, while also managing multiple responsibilities and growing as a leader.

Moreover, being part of these teams has given me the opportunity to have fun and connect with my peers outside of the classroom. I have formed close personal connections with my teammates and learned a lot from their unique perspectives and experiences. These extracurricular activities have also taught me the importance of compassion and understanding towards others, and the value of taking time to enjoy the company of friends.

Q: What would you tell others who are in your shoes at UMBC?

I strongly encourage everyone to get involved in extracurricular activities and events on campus. Don't hesitate to attend office hours, ask questions, and engage with your professors, as they are a valuable resource and can provide guidance and support beyond the classroom. Additionally, attending student organization meetings and other events is an excellent way to meet new people, build connections, and broaden your horizons. Getting involved in extracurricular activities can help you build a well-rounded skill set that will serve you in your future endeavors.

2022 AIChE ChemE Jeopardy National Championship team and their advisor (l-r): Max Bobbin, Catherine Wraback, Dr. Neha Raikar, Colin Jones, and Pavan Umashankar. Image courtesy of Wraback