Font Size

content body

Hu "Oliver" Zhao continues to draw inspiration from the life lessons he learned as an Honors College student, shaping both his personal growth and academic career. Currently, a doctoral student at Texas A&M University, Zhao and his journey are a testament to resilience and dedication. 

Following his graduation from Auburn, Zhao earned his master's degree in civil and environmental engineering at UCLA in June 2023. He is continuing his academic journey at Texas A&M, where he is pursuing a doctorate in geospatial science and engineering resilience.

. 

image of oliver standing in front of mount rushmore

A time of transformation

Last year was a transformative year for Zhao, who faced significant personal challenges, including recovering from a life-threatening head injury. While overcoming hardship, Zhao continued to rely on the values he gained as an Honors College student: serving others with compassion, pursuing truth with courage and conviction, honoring the diversity of human experiences and contributing to the creation of an ethical world. These principles continue to guide him in his work and in his commitment to making a meaningful impact in his field. 

image of oliver at speaking at a conference

Earning his accolades

In addition to pursuing a doctorate, Zhao serves as the president of Tau Beta Pi at Texas A&M, a national engineering honor society. He is also a member of the World Economic Forum Global Shapers Houston Hub, a data visualization research assistant at the Urban Resilience Lab and was a Clinton Global Initiative University Fellow in 2022.

In 2024, Zhao earned several prestigious accolades, including the TAMU Civil and Environmental Engineering Excellence Fellowship, the Troy Marceleno '60 Fellowship and the UCLA Engineering Achievement Award in Student Welfare.

 

oliver at a conference in front of a blue background with another conference goer

The Honors factor

Despite overcoming personal challenges and achieving significant academic success, Zhao attributes much of his growth to Auburn, describing it as the foundation of nearly everything in his life.

“The Auburn Honors College played a pivotal role in shaping both my personal and professional development, and I carry its values with me wherever I go," said Zhao.

Zhao graduated from Auburn in the spring of 2021 as an Honors Scholar with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. While at Auburn, Zhao was an involved member of the Honors College, serving as a student ambassador and other leadership roles across campus. In 2021, Zhao received the Wayne and Louise Crews Award, an Eagles of Excellence Award given to students who embody the full spirit of the Honors College.