Rawdah Abdullah
Rawdah Abdullah is a driven undergraduate student at Dominican University, pursuing a degree in mathematics with aspirations to specialize in mechanical or aerospace engineering. Alongside her major, she is minoring in computer science, and plans to transfer to the Illinois Institute of Technology to further her studies in mechanical engineering. With a keen interest in how things work, Rawdah’s curiosity drives her to understand complex systems, particularly in the fields of engineering and technology. She is especially passionate about automotive engineering, vehicular design, and the integration of innovative technologies into transportation systems. Her academic journey is marked by a commitment to broadening her knowledge base and learning new skills that complement her engineering pursuits.
Beyond her academics, Rawdah has actively sought diverse experiences to develop a well-rounded skillset. She worked as a Financial Literacy Intern at Dominican University, where she contributed to creating informative visuals for the university's financial literacy webpage. She has also gained hands-on experience in the automotive field, contributing to the Formula SAE/Motorsports team at Illinois Tech, where she aims to apply her engineering knowledge in a real-world setting. Additionally, her part-time roles at Avis Budget Group and Kohl’s allowed her to develop valuable customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that further enhance her ability to work in a variety of settings.
In addition to her academic and professional endeavors, Rawdah’s passion for learning extends into her free time, where she constantly seeks new topics to explore and integrate into her skillset. She enjoys engaging in a range of activities, from digital programming and circuit design to volunteering as a student election judge. Rawdah's commitment to expanding her knowledge, coupled with her hands-on experience in both engineering and service-oriented roles, positions her for success in her future career, where she hopes to contribute to advancements in mechanical and automotive engineering.
• Physical Science Responsible Conduct of Research
• GE Engineering
• Illinois Institute of Technology
• Dominican University
• The National Women's Engineering Society
• MAA Society
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my parents. They’ve been my biggest supporters, always encouraging me to pursue my passions and never letting me doubt myself. Their belief in me has been a constant source of motivation, helping me overcome obstacles and stay focused on my goals.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The biggest obstacle I face is often myself, but I stay motivated by the support of my parents, who have been instrumental in my success. To women aspiring to enter engineering or similar fields, my advice is simple: “Just do it.” Don’t hold back—there's a place for you, and you have the ability to make a real impact.