Nini Giorgadze, at just 22 years old, has been working on portfolio projects for CCEH for three years. Her career began with the construction project of the Akhalkalaki Hydropower Plant, which commenced operations in November 2022. She is currently engaged in the Bakhvi 1 and Bakhvi 2 hydropower projects, serving as a Junior Engineer.
Starting from September 2023, Nini Giorgadze will continue her studies at Stanford University as a doctoral candidate. She has secured full funding to pursue a PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering at one of the world's leading universities. Guria News offers an interview with Nini Giorgadze, who shares her journey from school to Stanford.
- Which school did you graduate from? In 2018, I graduated from the Georgian-American High School.
Where did you continue your studies after school and what was your major? Immediately after graduating from school, I enrolled in San Diego State University Georgia, majoring in Civil Engineering. What are you currently working on? In 2020, upon the university’s recommendation, I joined the Caucasus Clean Energy Holding (CCEH) for an internship in Civil Engineering. Mikhail Nibladze, the company's Executive Director, who is also a member of the advisory board at San Diego State University, introduced me to the company. I began working on one of CCEH's portfolio projects, the Akhalkalaki Hydropower Plant, in August of that year. The small-scale hydropower plant successfully went into operation in the previous November. Following this, I started working on the company's new project as a Junior Civil Engineer. This project involves the construction of two small and medium-sized hydropower plants (Bakhvi 1 HPP and Bakhvi 2 HPP) in Guria. As a resident of Guria, it is both a pleasure and a responsibility to be involved in such a significant project. I should also mention that maintaining high academic performance at the university was very important to me, and fortunately, my job always supported this goal.
Who has been your greatest supporter during such significant stages in your life? As with every stage of life, my family members have been my greatest source of motivation. I would particularly highlight my father’s involvement. What do you believe contributed to your success, and did you anticipate such results? I believe that hard work and determination are the most crucial traits for achieving any success. I had long contemplated studying in America, but this is not solely the result of recent efforts. Establishing correct priorities and values from an early age significantly contributed to my success. During my school years, I had a particular interest in technical subjects, and I was fortunate that my school supported my development in this area. I was also fortunate to have been admitted to San Diego State University on a full scholarship, supported by the Millennium Challenge Fund, which further brought me closer to American education and opened doors to top-ranked universities. Engineering is a broad field, and it is vital to find the area that best aligns with one's interests. Applying academic knowledge in a field that interests me has been shaped by the working environment.
Regarding expectations, I applied to several universities and anticipated positive responses from most of them. However, I initially assessed that the chance of acceptance at Stanford was low and thus had almost no expectations. Stanford has one of the lowest acceptance rates among the world’s top universities, especially in engineering fields. I am very happy that this high selectivity did not deter me and that I submitted my application. How do you envision yourself at Stanford University, and what are your expectations? I am still in the process of fully comprehending that I will continue my studies at Stanford starting in September. A new chapter of life begins for me, which I eagerly anticipate. Alongside receiving top-tier theoretical and practical education, I will conduct research in my area of interest, meet renowned specialists and professors, and successful peers of my generation, thereby enriching my experience.
Which faculty have you enrolled in and how long will the program take? I have been admitted to the PhD program in Civil and Environmental Engineering. Research typically lasts about five years, sometimes longer. I hope to progress quickly in this.
Let’s discuss future plans. Do you intend to stay in America or return to Georgia? Despite some skepticism, I am confident that I will return to Georgia. I chose my research topic with consideration of Georgia's realities and needs. I have been involved in the construction of hydropower plants for over two years and am well aware of Georgia's untapped energy resources and opportunities in this field. Last year, I published a paper titled “Importance of Renewable Energy, Specifically Hydropower Development.” My research will continue in this direction. I certainly plan to use the knowledge and experience gained to contribute to the development of Georgia, particularly in achieving energy independence.
What is your life motto? I have always liked the expression: “work until your idols become your rivals.” I do not have a particular motto at the moment; instead, I strive to surpass myself and make the most of every experience. Stanford represents a new opportunity for me to prove even more to myself.
What advice would you give to students and prospective students currently on this path? Choosing a university and the application process can be quite stressful, with anxiety being a constant companion. The preparation, submission, and waiting periods for applications are all highly nerve-wracking. The key is not to let this anxiety diminish your self-confidence and work ethic. I would advise applicants and students to remember that sometimes you may not fully showcase your potential in exams, but there is always more ahead and new opportunities that life offers.