The University of Michigan’s College of Engineering has honored Somya Valecha, a computer engineering undergraduate, with the Distinguished Academic Achievement Award for her exceptional academic performance and leadership contributions.
Despite being only in her second year, Valecha has taken on multiple leadership roles while consistently earning a place on the Dean’s Honor List. As the Professional Excellence Officer for the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), she organized career-building initiatives such as networking events and an Interview Prep Workshop. She also played a key role as Hospitality Chair for the Fall Engineering Career Fair, facilitating connections between students and recruiters. Additionally, she coordinated the Women In Leadership conference, creating opportunities for students across the university.
Valecha is a Sub-Lead of the Autonomous Software Team for M-Fly, where she has contributed to training machine learning models for an autonomous aircraft. She is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for new members on her team.
Beyond her campus engagements, Valecha has dedicated time to Project RISHI (Rural India Social & Health Improvement), a nonprofit focused on sustainable progress in rural Indian communities. Over the past year, she has been actively involved in their outreach initiatives.
In April, Valecha will travel to Washington, DC, for the SWE Congressional Outreach Trip, where she will advocate for policies promoting equal opportunities for women in STEM fields.
Looking ahead, Valecha remains dedicated to leadership and service, with a goal of bridging gaps and empowering others. Once her academic term ends, she will participate in SWEIndia in Walchandnagar, India, where she aims to inspire students to explore STEM. To prepare for this, she has volunteered at STEM-focused events in Detroit, including Summer Engineering Exploration Camp and STEM nights at underserved schools like Gompers Middle School.
With years of learning and leadership ahead, Valecha continues to shape a future where innovation and inclusion go hand in hand.
