Siddhartha Bajracharya: Outstanding Graduating International Student
Siddhartha Bajracharya of Kathmandu, Nepal, is the Outstanding Graduating International Student in the Maine College of Engineering and Computing. A computer engineering major, Bajracharya discovered his passion for embedded systems, a specialized computer system combining hardware and software, through high-altitude ballooning workshops at the University of Maine and Montana State University. He collaborated with students and faculty from institutions across the country to design sensors and launch high-altitude balloons. These experiences expanded his technical skills and helped him build a nationwide network of peers and mentors. He plans to continue his academic journey by pursuing a master’s degree in computer engineering at UMaine.
Why did you choose to come to UMaine?
I chose UMaine for its outstanding reputation and resume in electrical and computer engineering, with exceptional faculty and a history of notable achievements.
Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?
Participating in high-altitude ballooning workshops at UMaine and Montana State University provided me with the opportunity to collaborate with students and faculty from universities across the country. This experience not only broadened my network but also sparked my interest in embedded systems, which has become my primary area of focus.
Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new?
The Nepali graduate students here at UMaine have been incredible role models for me. They’ve not only mentored me academically but have also guided me in navigating life in general, offering valuable insights and support along the way.
Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at UMaine better, and if so, how?
I had the opportunity to collaborate with Dr. Rick Eason on the high-altitude ballooning project, which was especially meaningful as I was the last class he taught before retiring. Despite his retirement, he continued to lead the ballooning project, and he remains active in it to this day. Contributing to balloon launches across the country and working with the sensors that went up in the balloons has been a central aspect of my undergraduate experience
What has coming to UMaine enabled you to explore beyond academics?
Meeting people here from all over the world has been one of the most unique experiences in my life. From the international dance festival to the annual culture fest, it has been a blast to interact with cultures that are completely new to me. Also, I’m grateful to have the opportunity to represent my home country, Nepal.
What experiences have you had at UMaine that really highlight the ingenuity of Mainers?
Mainers have been the reason Orono feels like home to me. They have been so accepting of me and have shown me the way of life in the hard, cold winters.
Did you have an experience at UMaine that shaped or changed how you see the world?
UMaine as a whole was an experience that changed how I see the world. It marked my first introduction to the United States, and the academic and cultural differences compared to what I knew growing up in Nepal were striking. This exposure not only helped me grow personally but also professionally, expanding my worldview and deepening my appreciation for diversity.
Describe UMaine in one word and explain.
Resilient.
UMaine thrives through Maine’s harsh winters and challenges with a strong commitment to learning, community, research and innovation.
What’s on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate?
I plan to pursue graduate studies and earn a Master of Science in Computer Engineering.
Contact: Taylor Ward, taylor.ward@maine.edu