My name is Syeda Fakhra Jalal, and I am the daughter of Syed Jalal ud Din from Chalt Nagar. I completed my primary schooling at Nagar Academy Chalt and pursued my matriculation and intermediate studies in pre-medical at Public School and Colleges, Jutial Gilgit.
After my intermediate studies, I felt confused about my career path. Since childhood, I had always wanted to engage in research and innovation and was a bright student.However, there is a stereotype that high achievers must become doctors, so I applied for MBBS. Fortunately, my merit was just a few points short, and I was rejected. Initially, I was devastated, But deep down, I realized that pursuing medicine would not align with my dream as I always wanted to think out of the box.
I then applied to IBA, Habib University, and Salim Habib University, and I was accepted at all three. Ultimately, I chose biomedical engineering, as it integrates all the fields of science I had been interested in since childhood. I studied for four years in this program on a 100% scholarship, and I am currently in my final semester at Salim Habib University.
The university has provided me with the resources and platform to achieve my dreams. I published a paper and received numerous academic excellence awards and certificates throughout my journey. I became a part of IEEE, where I honed my leadership skills and participated in various competitions that enhanced my practical abilities. I was fortunate enough to take part in a robotics competition, and our team was selected for a trip to Tokyo, sponsored by IEEE, where we won third place among the top teams from Asia and the Pacific.
Currently, I serve as the chairperson of the IEEE student branch at Salim Habib University, and I am excited to share that I have been selected as an IEEE Day Ambassador for 2024.
My journey has just begun, and I have much to accomplish. So far, the keys to my success have been persistence and focus. My teachers have always motivated and supported me, and I owe a great deal to my husband, who continuously encourages and supports me.
In this era of science and technology, it is crucial for everyone to understand and learn about technology, whether in healthcare, communication, agriculture, or any field of interest.
My advice to the younger generation, especially girls, is to follow your passion. Stay focused and persistent, and Allah will surely create paths for you.
