The concept of a “Science and Engineering Diplomat” is relatively unfamiliar to many, even within the professional community. For a long time, engineers have often been confined to their specialized working environments. In the article Engineers Outside the Box: Pathways to Global Impact|Science & Diplomacy (translated: Breaking Boundaries: The Path for Engineers to Make a Global Impact: Science & Diplomacy), Dr. Fhamida N. Chowdhury (2018) questioned the paradox that in important meetings for developing national or international policies related to science and engineering, the voices of engineers—those who truly understand the field—are often absent. Based on this reality, she believes that the world needs more Science and Engineering Diplomats to contribute to nation-building efforts. To her, these diplomats, who are not only experts in their field but also possess diplomatic skills, will create more positive impacts on the community.

Võ Anh Quân is a student who possesses all the necessary qualities to become a future Science and Engineering Diplomat. With excellent academic achievements and public speaking experience through participating in MUN (Model United Nations) competitions, Anh Quân convinced the Admissions Committee and secured a spot at UIUC for the 2020-2021 academic year—a place where many groundbreaking technological inventions that changed history were born.