Titiksha Singh

Where are you from?

I am from New Delhi, India. 

Why did you choose UB?

In addition to being drawn to UB as one of the top 40 public universities in the United States, I chose to come here because it is an enormous university with a very diverse student body. Also, the strength of UB Alumni’s vast network and the high UB pride helps for maximizing post-graduation opportunities and kickstarting your career in the industry. 

Why did you choose to go into engineering?

My father is an electrical engineer and has always been the greatest inspiration for me. Since I was a little girl, I have seen my father work extremely hard in the electrical industry, where his work had a great impact on society. 

The fact that everything that happens in this world can be justified with the help of scientific reasoning has always fascinated me. For me, science is the answer to everything. Physical laws and phenomena apply to everything on this planet and there is so much the world can achieve with the help of technology. These factors keep adding to my passion and interest in engineering. 

What do you like most about engineering at UB?

The faculty and the extensive amount of engineering research opportunities! The faculty is a team of passionate and hard-working mentors, who make you think out of the box and look for ways to make a difference in the world with what is being taught inside the classroom. Also, through the research projects offered at UB, you can engage in give you the engineering experience you need from an early age and help you figure out your exact field of interest. 

What is your favorite place on campus?

My favorite place on campus is the Lockwood Library Silent Study area, where I usually go to study in between my classes. It is a quiet place and has a very nice vibe to it. I also to check out the books during my study breaks!

What are you working on right now?

I am currently working on a Silica Aerogel Project. We are analyzing how adding fiber to our sample will improve the thermal and mechanical properties of the material and how changing the ratio of the chemicals used in the process (and/or adding new chemicals) will help in reducing conductivity and pore size. I have always been very passionate about research. I am about to start working with Professor Danial Faghihi on the predictive modeling of plastic deformation polycrystalline materials this upcoming Spring semester. I am also working on a research paper on my silica aerogel project and wish to complete it by May 2021.

What else do you do on campus?

I am the Secretary of the Society of Women Engineers. I became a part of SWE in my freshman year because SWE encourages women to achieve their full potential in careers as engineers and leaders by expanding the image of the engineering profession as a positive force in improving the quality of life. I am a member of the social sorority for women in Engineering- Phi Sigma Rho. As a sister of Phi Sigma Rho, I strive for academic and professional excellence but recognize that developing lasting bonds of friendship and support with other women in STEM is essential to my success. We are actively involved in academic, philanthropic, and social activities. I strongly promote academic excellence and support achievement while maintaining a social balance. I also recently became a member of the prestigious Mechanical Engineers’ Honors Society, Pi Tau Sigma. Lastly, I work as a Teaching Assistant in the Mathematics Department where I help students understand the application of Calculus in Static and Dynamic System Modeling in Engineering.

What have you done that you are most proud of?

My research poster for the Silica Aerogel Project was selected by UB to be published on its ELN website for the 2020 Engineers Summit. It is so far one of my biggest accomplishments; being acknowledged for something that I am very passionate about gave me a great sense of achievement. I worked on this poster under the guidance of Professor Shenqiang Ren and my research mentor Donald Petit.

What are you passionate about?

I am extremely passionate about innovating, designing and manufacturing models that will help create an efficient and energy-sustainable world. I enjoy mathematical algorithms and problem-solving. I got interested in doing research ever since I started to wonder where the facts and conclusions in STEM originated from. I love to apply my skills and knowledge into practical scenarios which is why I am a part of several research projects on campus. I also love to teach, share ideas and connect with professionals on subjects of curiosity. 

What are your future plans?

I wish to work towards getting a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. I am particularly interested in Mechatronics, Manufacturing and Material Science. I hope to eventually work in the industrial manufacturing sector. 

Has there been a particular faculty or staff member that has been formative during your time at UB, and how so?

Professor Ren has always been the most inspiring, helpful and motivating mentor for me. He instilled a great interest in research in me and has always been there to guide me and help me with research projects, classes and further studies in the field of engineering. 

What is your advice for prospective students?

UB is a great place to expand your boundaries and explore everything the world has to offer. There is so much to learn and every day is a new learning experience. Meet new people, connect with faculty members, work with teams, and learn to share your ideas and experiences. Put yourself out there because the world is yours!

Titiksha Singh received a 2020 Leaders in Excellence Scholarship from the UB Engineering and Applied Sciences Alumni Association (UBEAA).