When University of Florida Engineering Ph.D. student Gadhaun Aslam is not researching, studying, community building or winning major awards, he loves to kick back and watch the adventures of STEM superhero young Sheldon Cooper.
“It is such a fun and heartwarming show, and I love how it blends humor with deeper themes about family, learning, and growing up,” Aslam said of his favorite TV comedy, “Young Sheldon.”
The comedy centers on an awkward pre-teen genius whose youth is governed by the glorious black and white of math and science. Minus the awkward part, young Sheldon’s life mirrored young Aslam’s life in Pakistan.
“As a kid, I always found myself torn between pursuing medicine and engineering,” Aslam said. “Eventually, I realized that engineering and computer science were my true passions. Today, my goal is not just to be an engineer, but to teach engineering and help inspire the next generation of innovators.”
That passion is serving him well in the Department of Engineering Education (EEd) in the Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering. In April, Aslam won the prestigious Gator Engineering Attribute Award and the Presidential Service Award. He also was a finalist for the Distinguished Engagement Award.
Considered the greatest distinction given by the college, the Gator Engineering Attribute Award honors students who exemplify creativity, leadership, integrity, professional excellence and service. The Presidential Service and Distinguished Engagement awards honor academic, university and community leaders.
“Gadhaun is an impressive graduate student,” said his advisor, Idalis Villanueva Alarcón, Ph.D., an associated professor and EEd chair. “His drive, intelligence, ability and passion to lead for the service of others are admirable.”
Here is more about one of EEd’s brightest stars.
Question: Were you surprised by winning three big UF student awards?
Aslam: I was genuinely surprised and deeply honored. Each award on its own is incredibly meaningful, but to be acknowledged across different areas — service, engagement and community building — feels truly special.
It is incredibly rewarding to see the time, energy, and passion I have poured into serving the Gator community, fostering spaces for both domestic and international students, and helping build supportive communities for graduate students. These awards reflect the support, collaboration and inspiration from so many amazing people around me. I feel even more motivated to continue making a positive impact wherever I can.
Q: What are your research projects?
Aslam: I am involved in several projects within the TWISTER Lab, enhancing student learning experiences through multimodal tools such as eye-tracking and electrodermal sensors. I also work on integrating data science and machine learning to better understand the connections between cognition, motivation and performance in STEM classrooms and related activities. Additionally, I contribute to projects aimed at improving faculty mentoring experiences by incorporating speech and voice analysis.
Specifically, my Ph.D. dissertation is centered on improving teaching practices in engineering through faculty professional development initiatives.
Q: How would you like to see your research make a difference?
Aslam: I hope my research creates effective learning environments in STEM education. By improving how faculty teach and mentor, and by better understanding the cognitive and motivational factors that drive student success, I aim to help more students thrive in engineering and related fields. Ultimately, I want my work to contribute to a future where education is not just about knowledge transfer but also about empowering individuals to reach their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society.
Q: Where did you grow up?
Aslam: Lahore, often called the Cultural Heart of Pakistan, where rich traditions, history and education are deeply valued.
Q: What do you like most about UF?
Aslam: The combination of excellent academic programs and a vibrant, supportive community. I also appreciate the wide range of student organizations that create spaces for connection, leadership and growth. Most importantly, I love the welcoming environment and the rich diversity of the student body. Being part of a community where people from so many different backgrounds come together, learn from one another and celebrate their differences has made my experience at UF truly special.
Q: What do you like to do outside of school?
Aslam: I love going for walks, especially at sunset. The sunsets in Gainesville are stunning – they never get old. It’s a perfect way to unwind and appreciate the little moments.