Women In Engineering Day: GCU student has academic achievements recognised after receiving the Hammerman Award
A GCU student has concluded her studies on a high note after being presented with the Hammerman Award; a prestigious prize awarded to engineering students for outstanding academic performances.
The Incorporation of Hammermen of Glasgow is a charity based on engineering trades founded in 1536, supporting pensioners and students in engineering courses in the West of Scotland.
Each year, The Incorporation of Hammermen presents 24 Hammermen awards of £300 to engineering students in the four colleges and universities within the Greater Glasgow area.
Final year Environmental Civil Engineering student Sama Radwan, who is due to graduate this summer, was surprised to have been selected to win the Hammerman Award at this year’s ceremony in April.
As part of Women in Engineering Day, Sama has reflected on her achievement and feels that it’s important to celebrate female engineers in a male-dominated field.
Applying for the Hammerman Award
“Our course leader sent an email promoting the Hammermen Award, detailing the criteria for consideration. The application process required filling out a comprehensive form that included not only my academic achievements but also my extracurricular activities and personal history.
My educational journey was quite extensive, having attended eight different schools across Egypt, the USA, Saudi Arabia, and Scotland. This journey included Minya Kawma Language School and Private Evangelical Primary School in Egypt, Logan Elementary School and Northwood Elementary School in Michigan, USA, Mutawiroon International School and Madinat Elolom International School in Saudi Arabia, and finally Hyndland Secondary School in Glasgow.
My parents, who have always prioritized my education despite not coming from a wealthy background, played a significant role in supporting my academic pursuits. They ensured I had access to additional classes and tutoring, fostering my love for reading and learning. This diverse educational background, along with my involvement in various activities and awards received since childhood, strengthened my application for the award.”
Finding out that Sama had been selected for the award
“When I found out I was chosen for the Hammermen Award, I was thrilled and deeply honoured. It felt like a significant moment of validation for all the hard work and dedication I had put into both my academic and extracurricular pursuits.
Given my journey through various educational systems and cultures, this award felt like a culmination of my efforts and the support from my family and mentors. I was grateful for the recognition and excited about the opportunities it could bring.”
Concluding her studies on a high note
“Absolutely, receiving the Hammermen Award was a perfect way to mark the end of my degree. It felt like a culmination of all my efforts and achievements throughout my academic career. This recognition not only celebrated my academic success but also my involvement in various extracurricular activities and community service, making it a truly fulfilling way to conclude my studies. Additionally, I received the GCU Common Good Award, further highlighting the impact of my contributions to the university and the community.”
The importance of celebrating women’s achievements during Women in Engineering Day
“Celebrations like Women in Engineering Day are crucial because they highlight the achievements of women in a traditionally male-dominated field. They help break down stereotypes and inspire young women to pursue engineering careers.
These celebrations provide a platform for women engineers to share their stories, encourage each other, and advocate for gender equality, fostering a more inclusive and diverse engineering community. It's essential to recognize and celebrate the unique perspectives and contributions that women bring to engineering, promoting a more balanced and innovative industry.”
Advice to female engineers at the start of their educational journey
“To female engineers starting their educational journey, I would say: Believe in your abilities and stay confident in your path. Don’t hesitate to seek help and ask questions. Build a supportive network of mentors and peers. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Remember, your unique perspective is invaluable, and you have the power to make significant contributions to the field of engineering.
Stay curious, stay persistent, and always follow your passion. My journey involved adapting to different cultures and educational systems, which taught me the importance of resilience and the value of diverse experiences. Whether you're pursuing interests in sports, arts, or academics, these experiences will shape you into a well-rounded individual capable of making a significant impact in the engineering world.”
By Rachael McAlonan
Got a SCEBE or GSBS story? Email me at Rachael.McAlonan@gcu.ac.uk or connect with me on social media