The Biography

My name is Jiaqi Gu, an engineering student at the University of Pittsburgh. I am originally from just outside of Philadelphia and attended Upper Dublin High School.

I was born on September 1st, 1990 in Nanjing, China. At the age of five, I boarded a plane and moved to Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania. My first memory of the United States was seeing a white cat because its eyes were so much larger than mine. When I was 10, I moved once again to Upper Dublin, also in PA.

My decision to enter engineering was influenced by Benjamin Franklin, my passion for logic and reason, money, and most of all, my desire to help people. I wanted to become a detective at a young age because I thought detectives helped people find lost items. Unfortunately, my English was not that great back then and soon realized they are usually involved in murders. However, as an engineer, I would be able to construct products that help people and at the same time, would not engage myself in stabbings and shootings.

When I get lonely, I usually entertain myself with my various interests such as running, playing the violin, watching movies, and eating. During major depression moments resulting from bad test grades, I usually think of William Hung, one of my greatest inspirational role models. When American Idol judges criticized him, civil engineer Hung replied, "Um, I already gave my best, and I have no regrets at all". His positive attitude proves to me that failure is ok.


The Project - Redesign of Online Transient Parking Map

We will be working with the Oakland Transportation Management Association to update an online parking map designed to help motorists find the nearest parking space.

Community Partner: Oakland Transportation Management Association


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