Women's History Month: March
In the College of Engineering, all are welcome. To better share the stories of how our faculty, staff, students and alumni are diverse in their many varying forms, we are celebrating various heritage and other nationally recognized months. This recognition will include stories about those in our greater engineering community, as well as sharing events and other opportunities.
Sussan Moussavi
PhD Student
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Q: Describe a bit about your personal and/or professional background.
A: I am a PhD student in Civil and Environmental Engineering, specializing in Environmental Engineering. I completed both my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Civil Engineering at UNL. As an undergraduate student, I worked in a geotechnical/materials research lab, was involved with the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Society of Women Engineers, and worked as a dance instructor at a local dance studio. As a graduate student, I have taken on the role of the President of both the Civil and Environmental Engineering Graduate Student Association and the UNL Chapter of the American Water Works Association/Nebraska Water Environment Association. I also love to travel and explore new places, go to the beach, and hangout with friends!
Q: What is your role in the College of Engineering – and what do you enjoy (love!) about what you are doing?
A: My main role in the College of Engineering is working as a graduate research assistant. My research focuses largely on the environmental sustainability and resilience of civil infrastructure systems. Thus far, I have mainly examined small wastewater treatment systems, although I am expanding my studies to include offshore renewable energy infrastructure as well. I love what I do. To me, civil engineering is all about ensuring the safety and well-being of the public. I strive to focus my work on areas that promote this idea in practical, ethical ways.
Q: Why is it important to celebrate one’s heritage? Why is it meaningful to you and your family? Is there a specific example/event/tradition of how you showcase or celebrate your heritage in its many forms?
A: In engineering, projects thrive off of innovative, diverse ideas. People from different backgrounds bring many different ideas to the table, and it's important to celebrate and promote this in engineering to ensure that our projects are as successful as possible in every way.
Q: How do you bring your own unique background to your role/responsibilities in the college or your professional life?
A: I'm proud to be a woman in engineering. Although the numbers are improving, being a woman in this field can still feel lonely at times. As an undergraduate, I quickly came to realize this, which prompted me to join the Society of Women Engineers. Through this organization, I met some really amazing friends that helped me through that first year. Through my current role as a graduate research assistant, I try to constantly promote women in engineering by attending different events like "Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day" and the "Women in Science Conference." My mom (an Environmental Engineer) continues to serve as a great role model for me, and I strive to do the same for other women in the field.
Q: What advice or words of wisdom could you share with others in our engineering community (staff, faculty, students, alums)?
A: If engineering is something you want to do, don't give up! I've heard plenty of upsetting comments directed towards women in engineering, but by joining the Society of Women Engineers I was able to identify a great support system early on. I also found some close friends through the American Society of Civil Engineers and my classes. Don't be afraid to reach out to your fellow students, get to know each other, and work together on things. It makes all of the late night study sessions even more fun!
