Why UC Merced?
UC Merced is right next door to my hometown Turlock, I liked the ease of having family close while pursing my degree. Being from the valley is something I pride myself in, it was also one of the more economically viable schools for me.
Why Your Major?
Originally, I started my journey at UC Merced as an Environmental Science major, I have always been curious of the natural world but realized quickly that I did not enjoy the courses as much and after attempting an engineering course, statistics and dynamics, I realized I enjoyed the math aspect of the major and wanted to pursue ENVE. I had no idea what environmental engineers did but the title sounded serious and am now excited to more forward into the work force.
Inspiration and Mentors
A huge inspiration for me will always be my mom, she is a strong and kind woman that helped me throughout my whole academic career and its thanks to her support that I got this far. As for at UC Merced, some of my mentors included Dr Thomas Harmon and his graduate students Humberto and Yelenka, their lab and the organization SEEN helped me learn so much about community and how to apply myself as an undergraduate student.
Memorable Academic Experience
My freshman year I took psychology 1, my roommate and I created a study group of about eight girls we taught one another studying techniques and quizzed one another to ensure we passed. I am still close to lots of those girls and have always been grateful for the opportunities that struggling in classes brings.
What's Next?
I would love to say that I have a solid job lined up but currently I am seeking to work an entry job at an engineering firm, for now I will stick to my internship with the consulting firm Arcadis on the High Speed Rail Project and pursue my EIT certificate.
Anything else?
I enjoyed my time at UC Merced and am glad to bring up the number of women in engineering :)
