Dreams That Shaped My Path

It all started during my early years in school, around the age of 14. At that time, Tehran was experiencing frequent air pollution crises, with the city repeatedly shutting down due to hazardous air quality. Observing this troubling reality sparked an idea in me. I designed a catalytic converter aimed at reducing emissions from Tehran’s aging fleet of vehicles, particularly focusing on those contributing the most to pollution.

Excited about my solution, I shared the idea with a classmate, who happened to be related to a mechanical engineer. He suggested that his brother could assist with filing a patent for my idea. But as fate would have it, this classmate presented my idea as his own during a school ceremony, receiving recognition for it. As the situation unfolded, many of my classmates realized the idea was mine, and they boycotted him for taking credit.

The school’s disciplinary supervisor intervened, and we were all called to explain ourselves. In that moment, the supervisor, with a tone of doubt, told us, "If someone is truly creative and talented, their accomplishments should be sustained, not just a one-off achievement." His words struck a chord with me. It became my motivation to prove that I could consistently create and bring innovative ideas to life.

From that experience, I became even more determined to demonstrate my creativity and abilities to the world. Over the years, I went on to win Best Student Paper awards, become a finalist in the National Geometry Olympiad, and gain recognition for my contributions to solar-powered UAVs and composite materials.

This drive to prove myself only grew stronger as I pursued my education in Mechanical Engineering. Ultimately, this journey led me to a place where I could combine my passion for solving real-world problems with my love for engineering and innovation. I aspire to become a mechanical engineering professor who can help gifted individuals in society—those who are often overlooked or suppressed—unlock their potential and share their ideas with the world.