Aniya Edwards (BS‘23, MS’24) is a first-year master’s student in Civil Engineering and was the 2023 Undergraduate Research Pitch Competition winner and audience favorite. She presented her research work focusing on sustainable construction materials. 

During her senior year, Aniya’s advisor introduced her to the OUR Scholars scholarship program which paved the way for her involvement in sustainable construction material research. Her focus was understanding the recyclability of materials and their application to construction and infrastructure. She tested various conditions they work best in, utilized these materials as fillers in cement, and assessed the pros and cons of each type. Aniya shared that this process provided an “understanding of the unique properties of each recycled material, (so) we can utilize them to improve the physical, mechanical, thermal, and environmental properties of cementitious materials.

Dr. Mirian Velay-Lizancos, Aniya’s research mentor and assistant professor of civil engineering, created a comfortable work environment and supported her in navigating the challenges of experimental research. Aniya said she was intimidated in beginning research, but Dr. Velay and her team of graduate students helped her stay driven. She connected with those around her through their shared experiences as first-generation college students – many being the first in their families to receive a college degree. She shared that beginning her own project was “a dream that not everyone has the chance to experience.”

“I grew up in a low-income industrial area in northwest Indiana. I was fortunate enough to learn how to be resourceful with what many would consider to be waste products. Upon entering university, it became apparent that there would need to be a global shift in how we view, understand, and use our waste products to sustain a growing infrastructure in a shifting climate.”

Aniya Edwards

As such, Aniya wanted her research to be able to benefit all lower-income communities. Her undergraduate research experience motivated her to assist these communities with sustainable practices. She has been able to continue her research as a master’s student and aims to support these communities by reducing the amount of waste directed to landfills and to be included in construction projects. 

Aniya’s career goal is to become a professor and has developed skills from her research that will be valuable such as her ability to manage a project and analyze data. As a prospective structural forensics engineer and designer, these crucial experiences support her professional goals as she continues her Purdue education. Aniya recommends others to be proactive and take charge of their future.

“It can be quite easy to get lost in the sea of research opportunities and possibilities. Try to keep a level head, remain organized, and stay focused on pursuing the goal that you have in mind. It’s never too late to forge the path you want to take in your life.”

Aniya Edwards