Amit Tripathi from Nepal has recently shared his amazing experience at University of Southern Mississippi (USM). He hasn’t just accomplished earning a double degree in Construction Engineering Technology (BS) and Economics (BA) from the University of Southern Mississippi, but he has done it by maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. Amit will be attending Iowa State University to pursue a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering. He will be researching in Construction Engineering and Management research projects, transportation engineering related research projects.

University of Southern Mississippi's unique academic programs, location, and scholarships were the main reasons that drew Amit to USM. He was surprised by “The warm nature, hospitality of local community people, and the whole university setting are really amazing.” Amit emphasized that “the principles of diversity and inclusion can be seen throughout the university and that is what allows us to grow and develop our identity as international students.”

Amit has had, as he describes them, “endless opportunities” at USM. He is especially proud of being the first international student Senator in the Student Government Association (SGA). He served as the founder and the president of the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA USM Chapter). Amit had the opportunity to lead and compete in DBIA National Student Competition and attend Annual conferences in Philadelphia, and New Orleans. Besides he served as Director of Outreach for Student Government Association Election Commission, Philanthropy Chair for Nepalese Student Association, Vice- President of Economics Club, Vice-President of Sigma Lambda Chi Construction Honor Society, Secretary of Kappa Mu Epsilon Mathematics Honor Society, Southern Miss Student Constructors, Marine Conservation Club, and others. Amit also highlights that he worked as an RA for the Institute for Advanced Analytics and Security (IAAS). Moreover, Amit served as a Learning Assistant for General Chemistry classes, worked as the Photographer/ Writer for Student Printz, and Lab monitor/tutor for the School of Construction and Design Lab. In addition, Amit interned at Jackson Brothers Construction Services, LLC and he’s honored that he received the Academic Excellence Award from the School of Construction and Design. All of this while doing a dual major and actively engaging in 7 to 8 different student organizations, he says, “it was challenging yet rewarding.”
He makes a special mention to Dr. Yuanyuan Zhang with whom Amit worked as an Undergraduate Research Assistant for the Center for Logistics, Trade, and Transportation. He points out Dr. Yuanyuan Zhang’s “continuous support, words of encouragement, and positivity whenever I need it.” Amit is also thankful to Mr. Carlos Sterling from the School of Construction and Design for his guidance, support, and help throughout his undergraduate career.

Here some piece of advice from Amit Tripathi to new students coming to USM: “There are many ways to be engaged and develop your skills. You will certainly learn, grow, enjoy, and leave USM better than you found it. All the faculty and staffs are really helpful, and they value the way you are. Dear Fellow International Students be a proud Golden Eagle and grab every opportunity Southern Miss has to offer to you.”

We thank you for sharing your refreshing experiences. Congratulations to you, Amit! We wish you the best of luck in your new adventure at Iowa State University. 

For more information: University of Southern Mississippi