Atif Ali, a Master’s graduate in Civil Engineering, has been named one of the 2025 Outstanding Graduates of Northwestern Polytechnical University. Atif stood out for his strong academic performance, remarkable research contributions, and active participation in various academic activities. Let’s take a closer look at his journey, achievements, and reflections on his transformative experience at NPU.
Atif Ali是西北工业大学土木工程专业的硕士毕业生，荣获2025届“优秀毕业生”称号。他以扎实的学术基础、突出的科研成果以及积极参与各类学术活动而脱颖而出。让我们一起走近他的成长旅程，回顾他在西工大的收获与感悟。
I am deeply honored to have been selected as a 2025 Outstanding Graduate of Northwestern Polytechnical University. This recognition is not only a testament to my academic and personal growth but also represents the invaluable experiences and relationships I’ve built over the course of my studies here. As I look back on my time at NPU, I am filled with gratitude and pride for all that I’ve learned, the challenges I’ve overcome, and the friends and mentors I’ve gained along the way.
1. My Studies and Life at NPU
My journey at NPU has been both academically enriching and personally transformative. From the first day I arrived, the university’s welcoming atmosphere and the opportunities it provided helped me thrive. During my time here, I have had the privilege of working closely with exceptional professors and peers who have supported my research and personal development.
The relationships I built with my supervisor, Prof. Chen Changhong, have been particularly impactful. His guidance and mentorship have shaped not only my academic endeavors but also my approach to problem-solving and innovation. My classmates and Chinese partners have also played an essential role in my growth, offering diverse perspectives and valuable collaborations that have broadened my horizons.
Throughout my studies, I’ve witnessed firsthand the fusion of cultures, exchanging ideas and traditions with people from all over the world, which has enriched my experience beyond just academics.
2. My Academic Achievements
Throughout my time at NPU, I have dedicated myself to excelling in my academic work. One of the proudest moments of my academic journey was being awarded the Outstanding Master's Graduate Award by Northwestern Polytechnical University for excellent academic performance and research contributions during my Master's program in Civil Engineering. Additionally, I was fortunate enough to receive the NWPU PG Presidential Scholarship First Prize, a fully funded scholarship that covered tuition fees, accommodation, and provided a monthly stipend.
My research on the effect of infill walls on the dynamic progressive collapse response of steel frame structures allowed me to explore new dimensions in structural analysis and finite element modeling. During the time of my field I performed some experiments and then I published this work. I published 1 paper, 1 is accepted and my master research also has been accepted in the 13th SHM Conference Austria.
I am also proud of my success in competitions like the International Science & Technology Innovation Exchange and Cooperation Projects Competition, where I ranked in the top 2 projects with our Cost-Based Integrated BIM Modeling for Sustainable Infrastructures project. This project aimed to streamline construction management through BIM techniques and has the potential to revolutionize the industry. Additionally, I was honored to receive the Best Poster Award at the First Xi'an “Belt and Road” Academic Forum of Engineering Science and Technology in 2023 for my presentation on the effect of infill walls during pushdown analysis and the response of steel frames.
3. My Feelings for NPU and China
Reflecting on my time at NPU, I am filled with appreciation for the unique experiences and opportunities that I have been fortunate to have here. NPU has not only provided me with a high-quality education but has also been a place where I’ve grown personally and professionally. The university's emphasis on innovation, research, and collaboration has helped me develop a deep understanding of my field and the skills needed to succeed in the future.
Living in China has been an enriching experience that has broadened my worldview. From the rich cultural heritage to the fast-paced technological advancements, my time in China has taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and global collaboration. The friendships I’ve made and the experiences I’ve gained here will remain a part of me as I continue on my journey.
4.Supervisor Chen Changhong's Words:
It has been a great pleasure to supervise Atif Ali during his Master's program. His dedication to research and his ability to approach complex engineering problems with a high level of analytical thinking have been exceptional. Atif’s work on the dynamic progressive collapse response of steel frame structures demonstrated not only his technical proficiency but also his creativity and problem-solving skills. He has been a valuable asset to the research team, consistently delivering high-quality results and showing a strong commitment to academic excellence
In conclusion, my time at NPU and in China has been a profound and life-changing experience. I am proud to have been a part of this esteemed institution and to be recognized as an Outstanding Graduate. I look forward to taking what I’ve learned and applying it to future endeavors, knowing that the foundation built here will continue to guide me in my personal and professional life. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey!
撰稿：Atif Ali
