RESEARCH

This past summer I worked in the Transportation Planning lab conducting a literature review onthe topic and being granted an opportunity to visit Korean research institute to see the how autonomous vehicles are evaluated for safety and how the courses at Morgan State University are applied to real world scenarios. My 8-week research entailed looking at electric vehicle (EV) data pertaining to lithium battery fires and their possible causes. I was intrigued to learn about how the Biden Administration’s 2030 target of 50% new car sales being EV could be met, what are the latest developments/technology to deal with lithium fires and discover if there may be any correlation with thermal runaway, firefighter data and meteorological conditions all the while ensuring public safety. I worked closely with the U.S. Fire Administration, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Pipeline Hazardous Materials Administration on the report.

EXPLORING KOREA

Having the opportunity to explore Korea was the highlight of the trip. I enjoyed bonding with my fellow cohort and making memories. Visiting Jeju Island and seeing the Haenyo women divers firsthand was a unique experience. I also enjoyed the multitude of museums, temples, zoos, beaches, musicals, sporting events and festivals during the trip.

What I will miss most about Korea is how affordable and clean the country was. The people had pride in keeping streets clean, the transportation systems ran smoothly and promptly, and food was on every corner. Overall, the affordability of being able to visit places like Busan, Jeju Island, and Bukhansan National Park without having to pay for expensive hotels and food made visiting much easier.

PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS

Figure 1: Korean Baseball Game

Figure 2: Seoul Jazz Club

Figure 3: Field Trip to KECRI

Figure 4: Attended Chicago Musical

Figure 5: Hiking Trail at Bukhasan National Park

Figure 6: Maze Land at Jeju Island

Figure 7: Cohort Pic in front of the Infamous Red Horse Light house (Jeju Island)

Figure 8: Hanging with a fellow member of Delta Sigma Theta from the Republic of Korea Chapter

Figure 9: Cohort Pic in Busan