Although my grandfather passed away before I was born, he lives on through the memories and stories my father has shared with me. In Bangladesh, my grandfather founded the first school system in his village and instilled the value of learning in my father,who was accepted into the country’s best engineering school, scored at the top of his class, immigrated to the United States to earn a Ph.D., and become a senior scientist at the University of Delaware.

As I began my own UD journey, I was determined to not only perform well academically, but to do what my grandfather had done—leave an impact. I set out to accomplish this through my leadership in student organizations and initiatives. Whether it was mentoring underclassmen through SASE (Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers), or being involved with Student Diversity and Inclusion to found the first shared space on campus dedicated to Asian and Pacific Islander students, I feel as though I have planted seeds that will one day blossom. Now, as a UD alumnus, I hope to continue to make an impact.

The opportunities my father had were directly impacted by the Civil Rights movement, and as Asian-Americans, we benefit from the model minority myth. In our current state, injustices such as police brutality against Black Americans occur amidst the backdrop of a pandemic that has taken hundreds of thousands of lives and an economy that does not work for its neediest.

Now more than ever, action needs to be taken. To those reading who feel these issues do not directly affect you, I encourage you to acknowledge the privilege which allows that. Challenge your views and remain a humble student of humanity. Hold those you know accountable for ignorance. Hold institutions, including UD, accountable to the values they claim to uphold, and ensure that your local government represents your voice. As I strive to honor my grandfather’s legacy, I remain committed to leaving an impact that improves our world. As fellow alumni, I hope you do the same.

Showvik Haque, EG20, earnedhis degree in mechanical engineering and now works as an engineer at Boeing Defense Systems in Ridley Park, Pa.