Graduation Date: June 2009
Degree(s): B.S. Civil Engineering

During her three months with Sibol ng Agham at Teknolohiya, inc. (SIBAT) Kathy divided her time between the office and the field. While in the office, Kathy created a program that enables SIBAT to perform financial evaluations of its microhydro projects. In addition, Kathy edited SIBAT’s grants. While in the field, Kathy worked with the renewable energy team to take the measurements needed to size and place a wind turbine and to lay pipes; improve a microhydro project setup to minimize debris buildup; harvest and planted organic produce; and evaluate a landslide area. Outside of work, Kathy was able to learn about the Philippines through participating in the relief effort following disastrous typhoon Ondoy, fishing with local villagers using nets, and dancing the night away with the kids living around the Mangarita farm.

"I learned concrete skills such as how to fix a motor, some programming skills in Excel, how to fill in USAID grant applications and so many Philippines related things that I couldn’t possibly think of them all: some Tagalog, how to navigate the transportation systems, cultural norms, current events etc. In more general terms, I learned about how NGOs operate ..."

Kathy Cooper

"A MAP Fellow such as Kathy provides new perspective and knowledge in our areas of work. It certainly makes a difference that certain tasks do get fulfilled because of their placement. But perhaps more importantly, Kathy and Matt's presence did bring life to the organization by our everyday conversations and interactions. They provided ideas we could work on in the future and offered their advice on certain technical issues."

Charlene C. Tan, Volunteer Program Manager
Sibol ng Agham at Teknolohiya, Inc.