I am a Skoltech graduate from Cairo, the vibrant capital of Egypt.

Before Skoltech, I studied Aerospace Engineering from Zewail City University. I chose my bachelor's program driven by my passion for flight and aerospace design, which I've been fascinated with from a very young age. I think watching documentaries and cartoons about it helped :)

When I entered university and began to take courses, I delved deeper into the realms of engineering and discovered a new fascination for robotics and autonomous vehicles. These machines that can operate independently and perform complex tasks with precision captivated me. That's how I shifted my area of focus towards the intersection of robotics and aerospace engineering, as they both can be traced back to fundamental principles rooted in mathematics and physics.

It is worth mentioning that, in Egypt, both Aerospace Engineering and Robotics are not widely recognized or popular career paths. I have remained steadfast in my chosen field of study because I wholeheartedly believe in pursuing what I love and being driven by passion and something that helps me feel fulfilled as a person and a professional.

I learned about Skoltech through my colleagues who had previously studied at Zewail City University. They did not only speak of the academic rigor and opportunities for research and innovation at Skoltech but also emphasized the enriching experience of living in Moscow and interacting with people from a diverse and culturally rich background. Their positive feedback about their experiences at Skoltech, both academically and culturally, intrigued me into exploring the university further.

I decided to join the Engineering Systems Master of Science program at Skoltech because it perfectly aligned with my interests and aspirations, particularly in the field of Robotics and AI. The program offered a diverse range of courses that fit my area of interest, including the Robotics course, Experimental Data Processing and Perception in Robotics. The courses' content was not only comprehensive but also reflected the latest research and advancements in the field.

One of the major factors that influenced my decision was the Intelligent Space Robotics Laboratory. I explored both ongoing and past projects conducted in the lab, and I was amazed by the level of innovation and ingenuity in each project. I wanted to be a part of a group where excellence and commitment to success (supported by state-of-the-art tools and the latest tech, of course) were the key focus.

One of the projects I worked on was called "SwarmHand," which involved utilizing Crazyflie drones in an online format. Throughout this project, I gained a deep understanding of the Crazyflie architecture and its operational ecosystem. I successfully demonstrated a 3D RRT* path planning algorithm for a swarm of drones, showcasing the practical application of my knowledge and skills. The project allowed me to engage in hands-on experimentation and problem-solving, adding to the excitement and enjoyment of the work.

Additionally, I had the opportunity to work on the "Non-holonomic two-wheeled robot" as part of my master's thesis. In this role, I was responsible for SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) and Path planning on an uneven terrain, utilizing 3D-vision-based measurements from Intel Realsense cameras. This project not only challenged me intellectually but also allowed me to contribute to cutting-edge research in the field of robotics. The opportunity to work on such innovative projects further enhanced my overall experience in the lab.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time working in the Intelligent Space Robotics Lab at Skoltech. It was a rewarding experience where I had a chance to be involved in beneficial projects and had a lot of fun. The lab environment felt like a game, which is something I believe makes a job truly enjoyable.

Beyond the projects themselves, I also greatly appreciated the Skoltech community and the diverse group of intelligent individuals with different backgrounds. The collaborative environment provided an enriching experience where I could engage with fellow researchers, exchange ideas, and contribute to the testing of their applications when needed. This sense of community and the opportunity to work alongside talented and knowledgeable peers added another layer of enjoyment to my time in the lab.

While I acknowledge that Skoltech students have received comprehensive advice from highly qualified faculty members, this insight has been transformative for me personally.

In our fast-paced world, there is often immense pressure to achieve rapid success and specialize in a particular field as early as possible. However, I have learned that this mindset may not always be conducive to personal and professional growth.

That's why I encourage students to embrace a more gradual approach, take your time and explore diverse projects until you discover your true passion. Engaging in various endeavors is never a waste of time; rather, it provides invaluable insights and helps you identify what brings you true fulfillment.