PhD candidate awarded scholarship for transportation research
Raguez Taha, a PhD candidate in CME, was recently awarded the Helene M. Overly Memorial Scholarship through the WTS Greater Chicago Area chapter for the 2023-2024 academic year.
The WTS is an organization that attracts, sustains, connects, and advances women’s careers to strengthen the transportation industry.
“I was truly honored when I learned that I had been awarded the scholarship. It’s an incredible moment of validation of my hard work and dedication to both academics and extracurriculars, inspiring me to continue to strive for excellence,” said Taha, who is working under the direction of Professor Didem Ozevin in the Nondestructive Evaluation Laboratory at UIC.
“Her commitment to research and outreach activities greatly impressed me. Her outstanding efforts have quickly elevated her to my research laboratory’s top 1% of PhD students,” Ozevin said.
In the lab, Taha is investigating the feasibility of a novel method for structural repair, which integrates 2D image reconstruction with 3D printed materials. She is also planning to conduct large-scale testing on decommissioned CTA bridge parts, and she is involved in engineering education research with a colleague, particularly focusing on group dynamics in engineering courses.
Taha wants to foster a supportive environment where the next generation of engineers can thrive and grow.
“I’m passionate about mentoring and empowering young minds, helping them realize their potential and make meaningful contributions to society. Additionally, I’m dedicated to pushing the boundaries of engineering by developing novel methods that solve current challenges and also promote sustainability and resilience,” she said.
Throughout her academic journey, she has maintained a strong commitment to excellence in her studies and extracurricular activities. Her hard work and dedication, along with the guidance of her mentors, Ozevin, Duana Love, who introduced her to WTS, and Laura Bloomberg, who played a crucial role in motivating her to expand her research endeavors, have shaped who she is personally and as an engineering student.
Taha met Ozevin as an undergraduate student at UIC and has known her for more than a decade. Taha said Ozevin has been “a role model and mentor” throughout her academic career. She noted that transitioning from industry back to academia after a long break was challenging, but Ozevin made the process “seamless.”
“Dr. Ozevin has been instrumental in shaping my research interests, providing valuable opportunities to work on projects that have expanded my expertise and exposure. She consistently offers feedback when needed and allows me to pursue projects that ignite my passion. Beyond her technical support, she fosters a welcoming and supportive research environment,” Taha said.