Student spotlight: Carl Lim

Meet Carl Lim, from Passi City, Philippines, a resilient community that taught him kindness and compassion. Carl chose the University of Washington for its vibrant energy and diverse community and who is pursuing a major in Electrical/Computer Engineering. Continue to read below about how he aims to break the cycle of poverty through innovative solutions.

What is your hometown?

I grew up in the Philippines in a little city called Passi City. Although our neighborhood was impoverished, we found ways to make the most out of what we had, and the people were always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. I am grateful for my upbringing, which taught me the value of community and the importance of kindness and compassion towards others.

How did you choose the University of Washington?

While on a field trip, I had the opportunity to visit the University of Washington for the first time. As soon as I stepped onto the campus, I was impressed by the vibrant energy and the people I met. I interacted with some of the faculty and students, and I immediately knew that this would be the ideal place for me to pursue my academic goals. The rich history, diverse student body, and top-notch facilities of the University of Washington make it the perfect environment for me to achieve my academic and personal aspirations.

What is your major (or intended major) if known?

I intend to major in Electrical/Computer Engineering.

Any clubs, activities or involvements you are a part of outside of class?

I am currently involved in my college’s AANAPISI (Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Student Serving Institution) program. This program creates a comfortable environment for students to connect, unwind, and receive all kinds of support to help them make the most of their college experience. The program offers various events and activities, such as cultural celebrations and networking events, allowing students to socialize, have fun, and expand their horizons.

What is one piece of advice you’d like to share with fellow students?

Prioritize and manage your time effectively while in college. This phase can be quite demanding, and you may have a lot of tasks, assignments, and activities to juggle around. You should develop a schedule or use time management techniques to ensure you have enough time to study, socialize, and relax. By staying organized and proactive in managing your time, you can reduce stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance, which will ultimately help you achieve academic success.

What are your long-term goals, beyond your dream job?

I am driven by a strong desire to use my education to develop innovative solutions that can uplift the living standards of underprivileged families. Having grown up in a disadvantaged neighborhood where necessities such as running water and electricity were often hard to access for many families, I witnessed firsthand the daily struggles of families living in poverty. The lack of resources often deprives them of valuable opportunities, leading to a vicious cycle of poverty that can be difficult to break out of. I consider myself fortunate to have had access to the resources I needed to be where I am today, and I want to leverage that advantage to ensure that every child has the same opportunities.