Rosha Amin

Graduation feels like the final prize, says Rosha Amin who graduated from the University of Waikato with a Bachelor of Engineering with Honours in Civil Engineering in September.

“It’s the ultimate recognition of what I have done in my degree, a recognition of my success and hard work throughout this journey,” Rosha says.

It was a bittersweet day, marking her first chapter's closing and another's opening.

While Covid-19 had its own challenges; creating disruption, uncertainties, and distance, Rosha says her final two years of her degree were the most memorable.

“I felt more ambitious to achieve the best, I got closer to many of my classmates, and I formed very close friendships.

“The community and culture at Waikato is amazing. We all helped each other achieve our best, could relate and comfort each other in busy and hard times, and laugh and be happy about our successes.”

Rosha particularly enjoyed her design papers where she was able to design electric boats, life-scale bridges, buildings, and airports, and understand how their design applied in real life.

“Civil Engineering allowed me to use my knowledge and passion for architecture and management.”

Rosha works for Tonkin + Taylor and has recently been seconded to Piritahi Alliance, a construction company in Auckland that prepares lands for development and delivers new homes on behalf of Kāinga Ora - Homes and Communities. She transforms engineering designs into 3D models that are used for engineering design, review, construction and client presentation.

Originally from the Middle East, Rosha moved to New Zealand 10 years ago where she spent most of her time in Hamilton and Te Awamutu.

She encourages other students to “say yes to opportunities and aim to learn as much as possible”.

“While studying, focus on your after-university plan, search for companies and see what the options are, which ones you like, and the requirements for acceptance. Apply early so you don’t miss your chances. And again, enjoy this chapter of your life to the best!”

Rosha also completed her Diploma in Engineering Management in January 2022.