Aka also volunteers her time to help African refugee families as they adjust to a new life in the United States, specifically encouraging them to further their education. In addition to her volunteer work, Aka is a member of the Student Alumni Association and the African Students Association at Georgia Tech.
To learn more about Aka, continue reading the interview that follows.
ISyE: How are you contributing to EWB-GT’s fundraising efforts?
AA: I have been helping the fundraising team on a project to implement a clean water distribution system in Cameroon, Africa. I have been making phone calls and distributing information to potential sponsors who may be interested in supporting this trip, and EWB-GT in general. Gifts in support of this project will assist with travel expenses, as well as the cost of construction for the water distribution system, solar pump, and storage tank.
ISyE: For any of our readers who would like to help support this project, where can they go for more information?
AA: That would be great! Anyone who wishes to make a donation to the Georgia Tech Foundation in support of EWB-GT can contact Nancy Sandlin, the director of development for ISyE, at 404-385-7458, or nsandlin@isye.gatech.edu.
ISyE: What have you enjoyed most about working with EWB-GT?
AA: EWB-GT is 100% run by students. It is amazing that students can take what they learn in class and apply it to such a great cause. For example, Georgia Tech students are responsible for designing the water tank and water distribution system which will be used in Cameroon.
ISyE: How do you plan to apply what you are learning as an ISyE student to EWB-GT?
AA: As an industrial engineering student, I plan on working with the team to offer more efficient and cost effective ways to help those in need. For example, I can use statistical data to determine how much water a community needs each day, or to assist in finding out the probability of disease in the water. I hope to have the opportunity to travel with EWB-GT, and work on location.
ISyE: With the strenuous work load from your classes, how do you have time to volunteer?
AA: It is always easy to find time for things we love. When I have a little free time away from my books, I find time to do what I am passionate about.
ISyE: What motivated you to pursue a degree in industrial engineering?
AA: I have always known I wanted to be an engineer, but I wasn’t sure in what capacity I wanted to pursue this field. My strength lies in mathematics and problem-solving. As an industrial engineer, I can use my strengths for the good of humanity, helping underprivileged communities, which is where my passion lies.
ISyE: What are your hobbies and interests?
AA: I enjoy Agbadja, a traditional dance from my home in Togo, and listening to soukousse and zouk music, popular music in African culture. I also like to travel and explore other cultures. On my last visit to Africa, I visited Benin, my family’s native country, to learn more about my heritage.
ISyE: What is your favorite thing to do on the Georgia Tech campus?
AA: The Georgia Tech Christian Campus Fellowship (CCF) is a great place to meet fellow students and make friends here on campus. I enjoy attending the CCF events and listening to their guest speakers.
ISyE: How do you hope to contribute to society, making the world a better place, as an industrial engineer?
AA: Using my skills as an industrial engineer, I hope to work with disadvantaged communities, helping them gain access to such basic needs as clean water, food, and healthcare.
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