Barsha Khanal Wins Six UNM Scholarships
UNM engineering student Barsha Khanal earned six scholarships totaling $9,500 for the 2026 academic year to support her research in sustainable concrete.
Barsha Khanal, an international undergraduate student in the Gerald May Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering at the University of New Mexico, has received six scholarships and awards totaling $9,500 this year. The funding, detailed in a university announcement, is for her academic and research excellence.
As a student from Nepal, the scholarships significantly reduce the financial burden of her education. This allows Khanal to concentrate more fully on her coursework, research, leadership roles, and professional development.
"More importantly, receiving support from different engineering organizations motivates me to continue working hard and contributing to the engineering community," Khanal said. She expressed gratitude to the donors and organizations for their belief and support, adding, "Their support encourages me to make the most of my education and, in the future, give back to other students and the engineering community."
Academic and Research Focus
Khanal works as an undergraduate student researcher in the lab of associate professor Maryam Hojati. Her research focuses on geopolymer materials and sustainable concrete. Beyond the lab, she holds several leadership positions. She is the secretary of the UNM American Society of Civil Engineers and the social media manager for the engineering honor society, Tau Beta Pi. She previously served as vice president of the Nepali Students Association. For more on student activities, see our squad page.
She has also represented UNM at the ASC Regions 6 and 7 Heavy Civil Competition in Reno, Nevada. After completing her undergraduate degree, Khanal plans to attend graduate school to continue research in structural engineering. Her long-term goal is to develop more sustainable and innovative materials for civil infrastructure. You can find related academic standings here.
Scholarships Awarded
The university source lists the six scholarships Khanal received for the 2026 academic year. The awards come from a mix of professional associations, industry foundations, and university programs.
- 2026 New Mexico Solid Waste Association of North America, Roadrunner Chapter Scholarship Award
- 2026 AGC-New Mexico Building Education Foundation/Be Pro Be Proud Undergraduate Scholarship
- 2026 AGC-New Mexico Building Education Foundation/Be Pro Be Proud Empower Her: Women of Construction (Dr. Deb) Scholarship
- Structural Engineers Association of New Mexico Outstanding Junior Student Scholarship & Award
- 2026 UNM Information Technologies Ann Myers Scholarship
- Institute of Transportation Engineers New Mexico Section Jerome W. Hall, Ph.D., P.E. Memorial Scholarship
Additional Recognition
In the Spring 2026 semester, Khanal received further recognition. She was honored with the CCEE Outstanding Junior Award at the School of Engineering's annual student awards ceremony. This award highlights her standing within her department. For detailed performance stats, visit our site.
