News Adam Iddriss

Bioengineering Major

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Adam is majoring in bioengineering with a concentration in biotechnology and artificial organs. He is also pursuing a minor in chemistry and a certificate in international studies.

Why Adam Chose Pitt

“Pitt provides challenging academic programs, opportunities for experiential learning, a diverse urban setting, and a supportive network of faculty and staff dedicated to student success. Selecting a college that offered an integrated curriculum and direct exposure to engineering was very important to me.”

Global Education

After he completed his sophomore year, Adam traveled to China through a study abroad program to learn about manufacturing and globalization, study language, and visit sites of cultural interest including the Great Wall. Adam says, “It was such an amazing experience!” He also studied in Brazil and Tanzania to further enhance his understanding of global issues in engineering. This exposure prompted Adam to complete an internship in a pharmacology laboratory where he gained direct exposure to international research.

How the Pitt EXCEL Program helped Adam Succeed

Adam notes, “Engineering is one of the most demanding disciplines to pursue.” The University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering offers mentoring and tutoring resources to help students succeed. The Pitt EXCEL Program offers academic counseling, tutoring, motivational workshops, and experiential learning opportunities for undergraduate students.

“Through the Pitt EXCEL Mentoring Program for Excellence in Engineering (MPE2),” Adam explains, “I have participated in research projects in the areas of cardiovascular physiology, neuroscience, and tissue engineering. In my current work developing scaffolds for soft tissue repair, I learn about regenerative medicine in a coherent and focused manner by designing novel hydrogels that can be used in patient treatment. Each research experience has deepened my intellectual curiosity and affirmed my career aspirations in biomedical science while simultaneously making an impact in bioengineering.”

Adam was named a 2006 Harry S. Truman Scholarship winner for his outstanding academic and leadership abilities. The scholarship was announced by Secretary Madeleine K. Albright, president of The Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation. He is one of 75 students from 63 U.S. colleges and universities to be chosen as a 2006 Truman Scholar. The recipients were selected from 243 finalists from 156 institutions across the country.

Campus Involvement

As a freshman, Adam joined Facilitating Opportunities and Climate for Underrepresented Students (FOCUS), a program dedicated to the retention of minority students through social events, academic support, and peer mentoring. Adam recalls, “The best part of the program is that it is completely free!” He is also a member of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), an organization that sponsors engineering-related activities, service initiatives, and social events for students on and off campus. “From my involvement in campus activities, I have met fascinating people, developed friendships, and gained vital career development experience.”