Alumna Profile: Shireen Basheer

Qualifications

Master’s in Structural Engineering and Master’s in Space Studies.

Current Job Title/Designation and name of company 

Aerospace Structural Engineer at OHB.

Tell us briefly about your current job and company.

I am currently working as a Spacecraft Structural Engineer at OHB in Bremen, Germany. The company is one of the leading independent forces in European space, and is involved in the sectors of Human Spaceflight, Earth Observation, Exploration/Science, Communication, Navigation, amongst several others. My tasks involve conducting structural analysis on spacecraft, supporting new technology development, and supporting satellite projects from the proposal phase until the launch campaign.

What is your most memorable experience in school? 

It is hard to pinpoint just one memorable experience throughout my 11 years at GIS, as I thoroughly enjoyed my time there! However, I do remember enjoying the sports days. I also have great memories of organising mufti day with my friends.

What were your favourite and least favourite subjects in school, and why?

My favourite subjects were Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, as I was interested in Science and Maths from a young age, and hence I thoroughly enjoyed those subjects. My least favourite subject was probably Business Studies, as it was a field that I was not very interested in.

What extracurricular activities did you do? 

For my extracurricular activities in secondary school I played basketball and football, competed in the school’s athletics team, and sang in the choir. In primary school, I also took basket-making, origami, and juggling. 

What was the best thing about your school? What important lessons did you learn in your school that have helped you in your life?

I remember being genuinely excited to go to school every day, as the quality of the education was excellent, with the teachers bringing out the best in you and making you excited to learn.

I also met some of my closest friends at GIS and despite the time apart and the distance between us, we still maintain close relationships with each other.

Studying in a multi-cultural environment helped me broaden my views of the world, and to work with people from all backgrounds. It also taught me about the importance of diversity. 

If you could travel back in time, what is the one thing that you would change when you were a student? 

Teenagers in general are always trying to fit in, and sometimes it’s better to stand out. I think I would listen to myself more, and spend less time caring so much about what other people think!

What advice would you give to current students of your alma mater?

The advice I would give GIS students is be humble. Attending an international school is a privilege not afforded to everyone, and we should never forget that.

I would also tell them to make use of the vast number of extra-curricular activities offered at the school. Having a wide range of interests and skills will take you far in life, as is important to have a life outside of your career!