Under his recently awarded Fulbright Study Grant, Tim Davis ’11 is planning to study at the Technical University of Berlin in the fall, focusing on computer vision, remote sensing, and how those technologies can be leveraged to improve humanitarian response. Currently, Tim, who studied international relations, German, and applied mathematics at Lehigh, is an information management and systems officer with a humanitarian mine action organization in Erbil, Iraq. Tim’s organization works to remove explosive contamination left behind by decades of conflict in Iraq. A large part of the programme focuses on clearing areas previously held by ISIS.

What are you most passionate about in your work?

TD: I am passionate about our mission in Iraq and honored to be a small part of a diverse, professional, and hardworking team. Removing explosive hazards and educating communities about risks are relatively tangible outputs as far as humanitarian response goes. It is also rewarding to know we are contributing to Iraq’s recovery from ISIS.

What about your Lehigh experience sparked your interest in what you do now?

TD: There is a lot of overlap between what I studied, international relations, and what I do now. The professors and classes I had at Lehigh played an important role in nurturing the interest I already had in this field, as well as providing me the skills I would need to succeed in a professional workplace.

What advice do you have for current students who are interested in your field?

TD: Specialize. Breaking into the field can be difficult with a general degree and skill set, but there is high demand for people with specialized skills.

Do you have a role model or idol that you try to emulate?

TD: I could not single out one role model. I have many, including high school teachers, professors, and bosses. The qualities that many of these people have in common, and that I try to emulate, are a tenacity when things become difficult and at the same time the ability to remain positive.

If you couldn’t work in your current profession, what area would you work in?

TD: If I had to work in another profession, I would be quite interested in trying investigative journalism. I think I’m drawn to the project-based approach as well as the potential impact that stories can have. In the information age, my technical background would also be relevant.

BONUS QUESTIONS

Which fan base do you enjoy teasing more: Lafayette fans or Duke fans?

TD: Duke Fans. They get more genuinely upset.

If you had to pick one Lehigh/Bethlehem “delicacy” to eat for the rest of your life (guilt-free), what would it be?

TD: That is a tough choice. There are so many. I think I would have to choose Pete’s Hotdogs. Not just because they were delicious (they were) but also because what a nice guy Pete was. A year after I graduated Lehigh, I went back for the first time and no sooner had I stepped through the door than Pete greeted me with a “Hey, where have you been?”