Twins Attending College of Engineering and Honors College

Twins Andrew and Elizabeth Ghartey are both admitted to the W.A. Franke Honors College, but are diverging on their engineering focus: Andrew is majoring in electrical and computer engineering, while Elizabeth is majoring in biomedical engineering. Andrew plans to then specialize in orthopedic medicine after graduation. 

"I find it rather fascinating," he said. "It applies a lot in weightlifting strength and athletics."

Andrew was selected for the College Board National Recognition Programs, which help underrepresented students with academic honors stand out on college and scholarship applications. Among other competitive awards, he received a four-year renewable undergraduate tuition scholarship under the university's National Scholars Tuition Award program.

The Gharteys' father, Kofi, who is an electrical engineer at Intel, has set an example.

Learning to think like an engineer as his dad does, Andrew said, will serve him throughout his life – in his career, in daily tasks such as cooking, and in approaching schoolwork.

"I observe him and how he goes through things. It reflects problem-solving skills and a lot of adaptability," Andrew said.

The Gharteys recently spoke with KGUN9 about their education goals and attending the same university. Outside the classroom, the twins are interested in joining new clubs and trying new sports: Andrew said he'd like to learn Portuguese and try the food at every dining hall on UA's campus, while Elizabeth said she'd like to keep her volleyball skills sharp and play in an intramural league.

"I always say that I want to challenge myself so that I can keep improving," Andrew said.