Extracurricular Activities
I am actively involved in several organizations that align with my values and passions. As a member of the Latinx Club at Oregon Tech, I am committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus and supporting the success of underrepresented students. Additionally, as a member of the Society of Women Engineers, I am part of a community that empowers and advocates for women in engineering and technology. As a member of SWE, I have access to various resources and opportunities that help me grow as an engineer and a leader. SWE provides a supportive community where women can connect, network, and share knowledge. They also provide a platform for advocacy and outreach. The organization advocates for policies that promote diversity and equity in STEM and works to increase the representation of women in engineering and technology through outreach programs and partnerships. Being a member of this society has helped me develop my technical skills and knowledge and empowered me to advocate for myself and others. As a woman in engineering, I am proud to be a part of this community and to help promote diversity and inclusivity in the field. Outside of campus, I volunteer with Coalicion Fortaleza, a non-profit organization in Medford, Oregon, that provides support and resources to the Latinx community. Through my involvement with this organization, I can give back to my community while developing leadership skills and gaining valuable experience in project management and event planning. These experiences have enriched my personal growth and equipped me with the skills and perspective necessary to make a meaningful impact in the world.
A Little Bit About Me
As a woman and a Latina, I am acutely aware of the lack of diversity in the engineering field. I am committed to using my platform to break down these barriers and inspire others who may not see themselves represented in this field. I believe that by working together and supporting one another, we can create a more equitable and inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. Growing up in a small town in Oregon, I have faced many challenges and obstacles, including the devastating wildfires that swept through the area and destroyed my home. While this experience was traumatic, it taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and perseverance. Through hard work and determination, I have found peace and grown from this situation.
Why I Chose Oregon Tech and My Major
I chose Oregon Tech because of its unique combination of a close-knit community and exceptional engineering program. Being closer to home allowed me to stay connected with my roots, while the small, supportive environment fostered my growth as a student. With an evident passion for civil engineering, I knew this was the right place to develop the skills I needed to make a lasting impact in my community.
My Influential Professors
Professor Mark Neupert's course on globalization profoundly impacted my worldview, providing me with a deeper understanding of how our world is interconnected and how globalization affects various aspects of our lives, including engineering and infrastructure. Even though he was not directly involved in civil engineering, his teachings helped me appreciate engineering projects' social, economic, and environmental impacts and their connection to global issues such as climate change, inequality, and human rights. This perspective enriched my education and inspired me to use my engineering skills to create a more sustainable and equitable world.
My Greatest Learning Experience At Oregon Tech
My most significant learning experience at Oregon Tech was overcoming imposter syndrome as a Latina woman in engineering. With the help of supportive professors and peers, I learned to recognize my strengths and gained confidence in my abilities. This experience taught me the importance of diversity and inclusivity in STEM fields. I developed a strong sense of self-worth and confidence that will serve me well in my future endeavors and contribute to advancing diversity and innovation in the engineering field.
My Plans After Graduation
After earning my degree, I plan to use my skills and knowledge to make a difference in low-income communities by designing parks that provide accessible green spaces for families and individuals. Growing up in poverty, I understand firsthand the importance of having safe, welcoming places where people can gather and enjoy the outdoors. I am committed to leveraging my education and experience to create parks that not only meet the basic needs of the community but also enhance their quality of life.