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In classrooms across Syracuse University, faculty use microphones engraved with the words “Property of Syracuse University”—a detail that marks a lasting contribution from a motivated student, Ahmad Alawaad.

Ahmad’s decision to attend Syracuse University was heavily influenced by his immersive internship at the ITS MakerSpace as a high school student. The experience provided him with invaluable hands-on skills, deep personal connections and a profound understanding of his potential in electrical engineering.

Growing up in a home where technology was a regular topic of conversation, Ahmad naturally gravitated toward the MakerSpace.

“I’m very interested in information technology and I’ve always tinkered around with it because my dad does IT here,” says Ahmad. His father, Alaa Alawaad, serves as a computer consultant for the College of Engineering and Computer Science at Syracuse University.

“Once I heard there was an internship, I jumped at the chance to do it.”

At the MakerSpace, Ahmad explored advanced tools that brought his theoretical knowledge into the practical world. “I was able to learn to use a laser machine, do shirt embroidery and more 3D printing. That’s what I love to do,” says Alawaad.

The MakerSpace served not only as a lab for experimentation but also as a classroom without boundaries. Ahmad’s work on various projects, including the opportunity to teach younger students and take on specialized tasks, furthered his passion for the craft.

“I helped them design, and that was so much fun.”

One memorable assignment involved engraving microphones with the words “Property of SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY,” a task that gave him a tangible sense of contribution to the campus community.

The relationships Ahmad formed during his internship were pivotal. Meeting fellow students and mentors deeply embedded in the technology field offered him both guidance and inspiration. These connections were instrumental in his technical and personal growth.

“I met two college students, Andrew and Anya, and I made deep connections with them. They taught me a lot.”

The culmination of Ahmad’s experiences at the MakerSpace was his participation in the summer college program, where he delved deeper into electrical engineering. Living on campus and interacting with a diverse group of students and professors made his college decision easy.

“After that two weeks, it really solidified my choice of going to Syracuse University.”

As Ahmad looks forward to starting his freshman year at Syracuse University, he is clear about his path: majoring in electrical engineering with an eye toward innovation.

“I intend to work for a company like JMA, CNS, Lockheed—one of those big companies, and invent stuff,” he said.

He looks forward to returning to the MakerSpace not just as a student but also as a mentor and innovator, contributing further to the community that helped him chart his own path.