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KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western �鶹��ýӦ�� University undergraduate student Anika Tabassum, has been named a Tau Beta Pi scholar, receiving a $2,000 scholarship from the engineering honor society.

“Tau Beta Pi's scholarship programs are highly competitive and help students achieve their goals,” says Dr. Damon Miller, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering and chair of the �鶹��ýӦ�� Kappa chapter of Tau Beta Pi. “Anika is a dedicated student and actively seeks experiences that round out her studies. She is most deserving of this recognition.”

Tabassum is a senior from Bangladesh who is majoring in computer engineering with minors in computer science and mathematics. She works as a research assistant at WMU’s Energy Efficient and Autonomous Vehicles Lab with Dr. Zachary Asher, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering. Her research involves upgrading computer vision systems and working on embedded hardware for advanced driver assistance systems in inclement weather conditions.

“That opportunity alone encouraged me to try my best and become involved in many activities,” says Tabassum.

In addition to her academic profile, Tabassum’s activities, internships and community involvement supported her selection as a Tau Beta Pi scholar.

“My professors are truly inspiring,” says Tabassum. “Their research, knowledge and enthusiasm for this field continually motivate me to learn more and contribute to the community.”

She is currently completing a second summer internship as an embedded software engineer intern at Gentex Corporation.

During her time at WMU, Tabassum has worked as a tutor in computer engineering and computer science for the STEM Talent Expansion Program, housed in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. She also served as a program assistant and academic mentor for WMU’s Mentoring for Success program.

She also supports students as president of the WMU Google Developers Student Club.

Following graduation, Tabassum would like to pursue a master’s degree while working in embedded systems. “We are in a very important era of technology,” says Tabassum. “The entire technological landscape seems to be shifting, leading to many exciting projects such as hardware accelerators that enable the widespread use of artificial intelligence, neuromorphic computing, and the advancement of e-textile technology for identifying health conditions.”

Tau Beta Pi is the world’s largest engineering society and provides more financial assistance to engineering students than any other engineering society. Membership represents the highest honor to be obtained by an engineering student and is awarded on the basis of high scholarship and exemplary character.

Tabassum, who plans to graduate in December 2024, is the second WMU student to receive a scholarship from the organization this semester.  Sergei Akhmatdinov, B.S.E.’23, was awarded $10,000 for graduate studies in June. (See related item)

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