Center of Excellence for Energy Selects Cohort for the Fall 2024 Student Exchange Program
Following a rigorous selection process, 13 talented students have been selected for the Fall 2024 Student Exchange Program at Arizona State University through the USAID-funded Center of Excellence for Energy (COE/E). Among the 66 applicants, 51 were from Ain Shams University, 14 from Mansoura University, and 1 from Aswan University. Moreover, 56 applications were from undergraduate students and 10 from graduate students. After screening for eligibility, the applications were reviewed by a panel of Egyptian partner university faculty and interviews were conducted. Those who passed this stage were reviewed by Arizona State University (ASU) faculty and COE/E leadership prior to final selection. Notably, over half of the selected participants are female, demonstrating the center’s commitment to inclusivity in energy education.
Of the thirteen selected students:
- Four are graduate students and nine are undergraduate students
- 54% are female
- Nine are energy engineering students, three are mechanical engineering students, and one is a mechatronics engineering student.
- Average cumulative GPA for undergraduate students was 3.48.
To expedite the process for course registration, COE/E included a course pre-approval form in the application this cycle for students to set plans for technical coursework and obtain department and dean approval from their home universities. COE/E helped the students register for courses at ASU-US, complete the J1 visa application process, and arrange lodging and other logistics.
In preparation for their semester at ASU, students attended a pre-departure orientation designed to equip them for both academic and cultural experiences. Covering essential topics such as finances, health, safety, and cultural adaptation, the orientation ensured they were fully prepared for their time abroad. The students received their travel visas and are set to arrive in the US on August 14 in time for ASU orientation. Classes begin on August 16, 2024.
Among the selected students, PhD candidates Haya Hesham and Moustafa Amer stand out. Haya, from Ain Shams University, plans to leverage ASU’s advanced fuel cell lab to further her research in this area, with the goal of applying her findings back in Egypt. Moustafa, from Mansoura University, will focus on electric vehicle technology and AI applications in mechanical engineering while gaining insights into entrepreneurship.
The exchange program is designed to enhance students’ practical skills and knowledge in energy-related fields. Participants will work with advanced equipment and industry experts, and return with experience that will contribute to Egypt’s energy transition goals, improve higher education in energy disciplines, and strengthen the country’s capacity for innovation in the energy sector.