Seven Questions with... Zarin Haque

What are you studying, why are you interested in this subject and what do you plan to do in the future?

I have always known that I would pursue a life in STEM – I loved working with circuits and discovered that Electronic and Electrical Engineering (EEE) was my calling. During my time at UCL, it has become clear how broad the subject is, and even though designing a working circuit brings me immense joy, I would prefer working with data science and machine learning going forth. With the fourth industrial revolution underway, I believe that educated analysis of information and implementation through machines will bridge inequalities in less privileged regions of the world where provision of healthcare, education and other amenities suffer from the lack of efficient manpower. 

What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at UCL?

Unquestionably, my degree is full of projects that are academically interesting. However, it was the UCL Engineering Tutoring programme that has proved to be the most exciting thing that I have gotten involved in. In the beginning, we had face-to-face sessions at schools in East London, where we tutored secondary school pupils on STEM subjects. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we quickly transitioned to online tutoring in order to support schools and community centres in East London; it was extremely riveting to be part of the transition in learning methods. The best part of the tutoring programme for me was when pupil’s summer grades were released, and after overcoming numerous challenges, all my tutees' results improved by at least one grade. From lecture theatres full of people to a screen in an isolated room – the change was a completely new experience to undergo, simultaneously as a student and a tutor.

Have you discovered any hidden gems during your time at UCL?

The view from the top floor of the Student Centre is breathtaking – especially when you are a Coldplay fan looking towards the BT Tower, humming their song, Fix You which was written inspired by the landmark. As an engineering student though, my top experience would be the London Centre for Nanotechnology, which is located next to the Student Centre and is where I got to know about the research and fabrication of quantum microchips. 

Give us your top three things to do/see/go to in London:

1. Watch a play at Shakespeare’s Globe
2. Walk along on the Tower Bridge at sunset, and witness its beauty at night when it is lit up
3. Visit the Camden Market on the weekends. 

Right now, however, walking around London to fish out the best graffiti and murals is the best thing to do as exercise. 

What’s one thing you’d like to see in a post-Covid world?

I would really appreciate remote working and learning becoming a supplementary option in our usual pre-Covid lifestyles. For numerous occupations, hours of travel time and loads of energy can be directed towards getting work done than getting to the workplace. Alongside that, remote and blended learning options open doors for students who live in less accessible regions. 

Who inspires you and why?

Marie Curie is my biggest inspiration as her work made leaps and bounds in physics and chemistry. During a time when female representation in science was close to non-existent, Marie Curie paved the way with her achievements as the first female in numerous designations of the scientific world.

What would it surprise people to know about you?

I think it would be surprising if people knew how much dark chocolate I eat.