Major: Aerospace Engineering
Hometown: Panama City, Panama
Clubs and activities: Undergraduate Research in the OpenUAS team, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), Aerospace Engineering Peer Mentor
Awards and honors: Dean’s List, AIAA Diversity Scholar, Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) Scholar, University Honors Program, Tau Beta Pi
Who was your most influential mentor while at Iowa State?
Kristin Rozier, assistant professor of aerospace engineering, welcomed me in her research team. She gave me the opportunity to grow as a leader and understand the research experience.
What would you consider your greatest accomplishments at Iowa State?
Moving for college, learning to be independent, adapting to the cultural differences. Throughout this ride I faced many challenges which I have learned to embrace. Trying new experiences and moving outside my comfort zone.
What’s your favorite memory of your time at Iowa State?
Traveling to Washington, D.C with AIAA for Congress Visits Day. It was my first time traveling there. We overcame some hiccups along the way, and I got to share the experience with an amazing group of people.
What’s your favorite place on campus?
Howe Hall for sure. Whether it is in the atrium with my friends and peers working on schoolwork and projects or in the labs for long hours, Howe Hall is where the highs and lows of this journey happened.
What’s your advice for first-year Iowa State engineering students?
Be ready to put in the work. Do not be afraid of making changes and seeking new challenges/experiences. Reach out to people when in doubt.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Free time or not, calling my family is the first thought that comes to my mind. I also like to read books, take walks, and enjoy the outdoors.
What’s one lesson you’re taking away from this challenging pandemic year?
This year has been a reminder that it is okay to stop, take a break, and work on yourself.
What are your plans for after graduation?
The plan is to come back next fall and work on my graduate degree.