August 2010
Q: When were you involved in MESA and how did you hear about it?
A: I learned about MESA through a friend I met at freshman orientation. She was in the program and we happened to be in the same science class. I joined MESA during my second year of junior high school and continued my involvement through high school.
Q: How did MESA affect you?
A: From the minute I joined MESA with my twin brother, we took on projects and competitions together. I remember winning second place in the egg drop competition, building a container that could take the impact of a falling egg without harming it. We received 3rd place in building the tallest tower out of straws without it falling over.
In high school, I became more involved in MESA. I was motivated by the critical and analytical challenges provided through my involvement with MESA. I have always enjoyed building things. In a competition, I learned implementing the simplest ideas can be the smartest resolution.
MESA has had a strong impact in my life. It gave me the opportunity to challenge myself and left me with a feeling of accomplishment with every competition I finished.
Q: Was there something MESA offered that particularly helped you with your classes or major?
A: In MESA, I had more resources available to me and a closer connection with teachers and students. The things that MESA offers that I believe is fundamental in what I do today are learning the value of team work, networking, and organization. I found these skills to be critical during and after college.
Q: What is your degree in and when did you graduate?
A: I went to the University of California, San Diego and originally majored in chemical engineering. I switched majors my sophomore year in college to political science-international relations and graduated in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in that field. It may seem like quite the change; however, I was in Model United Nations in high school, which amplified my interest in international and local politics.
Q: What do you do now?
A: Today I am a District Representative for California State Senator Lou Correa, 34th Senate District, which covers the cities of Santa Ana, Buena Park, Fullerton, Anaheim, Garden Grove, Stanton and Westminster. I work in the district office, solving casework for Senator Correa and helping constituents access state resources if they are having difficulties connecting with that agency. I represent my hometown, the city of Santa Ana, for Senator Correa. As a District Representative my duties include following local policy and constituent services, and attending community events when the Senator is in Sacramento. As a District Representative, I also help in organizing town halls and workshops for the residents of the 34th district to connect them to services that agencies and local organizations provide.
Q: What advice do you give other students in math, science or engineering fields?
A: Many of you who study math, science and engineering fields will face challenges that you can overcome. I suggest taking art, media and dance classes or become involved in community service projects. In a job interview they look for people that do more than study and get good grades. Those who have an art minor, join a club or have an extracurricular activity on their resume have better chances of getting hired. They show they are sociable, creative, they’re critical thinkers, and a team worker.
When looking for that specific job in your field of study, no matter what it entails, I cannot stress the importance of having skills in critical thinking, teamwork, leadership and public speaking. Public speaking helps you to get rid of your fears during a job interview. During a job interview employers will remember those who are articulate, audible, and well presented.
Q: Were you the first person in your family to go to college? If so, how does that feel?
A: My twin brother and I are the first ones in our family to go to college. My brother is finishing his civil engineering degree at the moment. I feel great that I am doing what I love. You can't go far if you don’t open yourself to the possibilities. College has helped me get to where I am today. My family is very proud of me, but nothing comes close to the feeling of accomplishment when you graduate and get your first job.
Q: What does MESA mean to you?
A: If you read the answers to my questions above, need I say more?
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