CEE Spotlight: Natasha Baruah

Hometown/County: Guwahati, India

What drew you to Civil and Environmental Engineering?

It was back in 2014, right after my undergraduate that I knew I want to invest my knowledge and skills to improve the living condition of the people around me. I had worked at Amazon for the past seven and a half years, where I had an opportunity to learn about the company’s sustainable steps towards reaching net zero carbon emission. However, I lacked the expertise to work in a role that could positively impact the environment. Additionally, I saw that there was no access to water or water infrastructure in rural northeastern India when I would visit my grandmother. I have also experienced limited water supply due to the depleted groundwater in my hometown, which can be linked back to climate change. 

I believe that I can make an impact by building a better place for life through science and engineering. The fact that civil and environmental engineering directly aspires to improve the lives of people is the main reason why I am drawn to this discipline. The best decision I’ve ever made was to come back to school to pursue my long-term dream of receiving an education from the very best institution in this field. 

How did/does your identity influence your decision to pursue engineering/STEM?

Coming from India and having experienced environmental issues first-hand, I can share my stories with those around me. I think this is a great advantage in itself. Stories allow us to connect deeply with each other. 

In addition to developing knowledge and skills, it is important to connect with people to understand how to better serve and interact with them. For these reasons, I believe in compassion, and I always try to be compassionate when connecting with people. When we combine our lived experiences with acquired engineering/STEM knowledge, we are able to drive necessary change not only in our world but also in the disciplines of engineering/STEM. 

How did your lens on diversity, equity, and inclusion take shape both as you grew up and as you entered adulthood and academia?

India has a diverse culture, and I grew up in a very diverse background. From my work experience, I had the opportunity to work and interact with people from different communities worldwide, which helped me learn and grow as a person. I believe that diversity, equity, and inclusivity are essential for personal and professional growth. It helps me perceive and gauge a problem or a situation from different perspectives.

I believe women in tech and engineering can empower and inspire younger women all around the world within all communities! Someday, I wish to inspire someone around me to make a change in their lives. 

What positive experiences have you had at CMU that you would hope others would have?

The best thing about studying at CMU is that programs are interdisciplinary and we can choose our own career paths. I like how everyone around me is so brilliant, and I get to learn every single day. Regarding academia, I have found like-minded people here who motivate me to go the extra mile to push the limit to learn. The learning graph has always been upward. The professors and staff are extremely approachable and always give out their best. In a data-driven world, CMU’s research is at the forefront in its respective fields. I’ve felt that I belong here, a place full of opportunities and possibilities. 

In your position as a graduate student, how do you advocate for inclusion?

As a graduate student, I think it is very important to be heard. Respecting others’ backgrounds and experiences are important for inclusivity. I think each of us has the power to create a compassionate and inclusive environment around us by respecting each other and strengthening communities by giving back. 

Do you have any advice for incoming (students, faculty, or staff)?

Never stop believing in yourself!

If you have a dream, work hard for it and never stop believing in yourself. After eight years in corporate, I took the step to pursue my dreams and came to CMU. CMU is a great school with the smartest people around. Connect with as many people as possible because the best ideas come out when you collaborate with people!