I am a student at Cal Poly Pomona. I came to the United States at the age of 12 from Mexico. I chose Civil Engineering as my major because I wanted a career that would be productive and contribute to the development of the world.
Engineers are required to be problem solvers in order to meet the challenges of urban structures, transportation, bridges, water, waste and power systems to provide the vital infrastructure for every modern, developed society today. Through the engineering organizations such as Society of Hispanics in Science and Engineering (SHSE), I have taken steps towards my professional dream as a student in the engineering field by attending the National Conference in order to obtain an internship. Also through SHSE I was able to reach out to high school students by being part of the program “Advancing Careers in Engineering” (ACE). ACE conducts engineering students to visit High Schools to inform high school students about what engineers do and try to get prospective students interested in the field.
I have always been driven by my passion to be a leader in my community and academically as well through my school work. I am currently in the Dean’s honor list at Cal Poly Pomona as well as a member of the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, which is a great honor to receive for first year students. I was also invited to be part of a leadership seminar “Maximizing the College Experience” in New York City in January 2008. In the Summer of 2008, I'll study the history of civil engineering and modern architecture in Egypt!
Without a doubt HSF helped me stay on track with my educational goals, providing me with information about internships and leadership programs. My HSF mentor helped me stay focused and kept me updated on great internship opportunities, announcements and recommended me for the Goldman Sachs Program. There are no words to describe how much HSF has contributed to my success. The Hispanic Scholarship Fund has been a blessing in my life.
My advice is DO NOT be scared to step out of your comfort zone because stepping out and taking leadership roles on campus is the fastest and most rewarding way to learn about yourself. The best advice I want to give new students is to never let go of an opportunity because you are scared. Network and ask many questions. I remember one thing my mother would always tell me and now I realize the importance of this phrase because I live it everyday. “Preguntando se llega a Roma.” You can accomplish a lot by asking questions.