I drive a 1995 BMW 318i convertible. While most people see her and think she's past her prime, I see reliability. My BMW is a year older than me, and like me, she keeps moving forward. Every repair, from patching the rusted floor hole on the driver's side, to replacing the broken steering boot, reflects resourcefulness and patience, qualities I've cultivated as a first-generation student, now female engineer in the nuclear industry. Like when I'm driving, I worry whether I'm moving towards the right direction in my career and personal life. With my 30s approaching next year, I feel the pressure of milestones I've yet to reach: graduating with my Master of Science in Engineering Management to lead complex nuclear projects, paying off my undergraduate student loans and buying a home, and starting my own nuclear business. But just like with my BMW, I'm learning that being intentional matters more than meeting a societal timeline. My story didn't begin with specialty programs or industry connections. I come from a rural, traditional Mexican household, where I've had to break generational cycles and overcome barriers to pursue my undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering. Over the years, I've served as a caretaker, interpreter, tutor and advocate for my family. These responsibilities taught me resilience; however, they also meant that I had to finance my own education, resulting in over $60,000 in student loans. Despite those challenges, I earned my degree and focus on building a more sustainable, equitable energy future. Around the world, countries are ramping up their nuclear programs to meet growing demands of energy while reducing their impact on the environment. However, underrepresented communities are often left behind in these conversations. That’s why I’m committed to bridging that gap. Charles Cheesman's Student Debt Reduction Scholarship will allow me to shift my focus from my financial constraints to advancing nuclear technologies, expanding international collaboration and mentoring the next generation of underrepresented STEM leaders. Through my master’s program, I will gain technical and leadership skills needed to manage complex nuclear projects and advocate for energy solutions that balance environmental, social and economic needs on a global scale. While disasters such as Chernobyl, Three Mile Island, and Fukushima have shaped public perspective towards nuclear energy, these incidents have conjured international collaboration to strengthen nuclear safety and security. To continue fostering this conversation on nuclear safety and security in our communities, I continue working in nuclear and advocating in leadership roles in organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency, Women in Nuclear and North American Young Generation in Nuclear. I organize STEM pipeline programs, simplifying complex STEM topics like nuclear into stories that all ages can understand. I've spoken on panels to help students, many first-generation, visualize their futures in STEM. While I cannot afford to donate monetarily, I donate my time and lead a scholarship initiative for undergrad first-generation students. I believe that isn't just about meeting project deadlines, it's about reshaping the systems we build and the future we imagine. As someone perusing a career at the intersection of energy, management and policy, the support from this scholarship will contribute to my ability to complete my course work while I continue to work full-time as an engineer to pay off my undergraduate student loans, attend relevant energy conferences and access research opportunities that will advance my practical experience as an emerging leader in the nuclear industry. Like learning how to repair something that is a by-product of its environment on my BMW, I continue to navigate my engineering career with the intention of learning as I go.

I once heard a professor say "Energy that is spent on surviving, is energy not used towards evolving" during my 8am thermodynamics class. While this was used to describe the three laws of thermodynamics in physical systems, I feel like these laws can be applied metaphorically to understand our health. The three laws of thermodynamics explain how energy is finite, how energy grows to be chaotic in a closed system as time goes by, and that there are natural constraints on a system's ability to reach a perfect order and efficiency. When compared metaphorically, mental, emotional, and physical health are different types of energy, where like a physical system, our human body processes through mind-body connection. These energies are interlinked, supporting our bodily functions as we go through life. To be honest, I retook thermodynamics. Not once... Not twice... But, three times. The second time I failed, I was working 30+ hours at a pharmaceutical manufacturing plant as an engineering intern while taking on 18 credits in my mechanical engineering degree. That semester, I was struggling to keep my head above the water. I felt like I was existing to survive- to pay for rent and groceries, to pay for car insurance and gas, to pay for tuition and my interest-only student loan payments while in school- to pay for the fact that as a first-generation student, I would have no financial or family support during this time. My energy was spent trying to balance school, work and my personal life. However, I was mentally drained. Between all-nighter study sessions after class and work, trying to eat healthy and work out so I don't gain weight, trying to salvage a romantic relationship and being my family secretary - seeing the "FINAL GRADE: D" on the screen cracked my sanity. Thoughts crossed my mind: "I'm a failure... I don't deserve to be in engineering... This means I have to spend yet another year delaying my graduation..." I was trying to hold myself together while these thoughts crossed my head. I couldn't fathom being in engineering school one more year. Mentally, I felt defeated. Despite being in the field, I felt like I wasn't good enough. I didn't know it yet, but failing thermodynamics again defined my engineering career and shaped me into the professional I am today. During that time, I co-founded the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers chapter, a non-profit dedicated in promoting STEM through public outreach, mentorship, and professional development. Through SHPE-VCU, I organized professional development career workshops and STEM public outreach events for college students and first-generation high school students. I also led funding initiatives, bringing in $30,000 annually to support chapter operational costs. Currently as an alumni, I established a $10,000 10-year anniversary alumni funded scholarship to fund operational costs and undergraduate scholarships for the student chapter. I also found my passion in the nuclear industry through an internship opportunity at a global Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) company that designs, procures and builds megastructure projects like nuclear power plants. Currently, I work here full-time supporting a first-of-a-kind nuclear reactor demonstration project and am involved in leadership positions across various global non-profits that promote international collaboration, innovation, and workforce empowerment. Although mentally I felt defeated, I carried on and accepted my loss. I gave myself time to grieve over the fact that I would be in school one more year. Through this experience, I learned that failure is delay, not defeat. It is simply a chance to try again. Despite not graduating on time, I got to enjoy new experiences that later turned into my passion.

As a first-generation student and female engineer in a male-dominated field such as nuclear, I've learned that being the first often means being the blueprint. From translating documents for family members to starting my Master of Science in Engineering Management and contributing to global nuclear energy projects, my STEM journey has been anything but linear. As global energy demand grows, it is vital to we understand and communicate the socioeconomic and environmental impact this will have especially on the communities it will affect the most. Understanding this, I am an engineer on a first of a kind nuclear power plant development project in a private-public partnership with U.S. Department of Energy. I conduct research regarding socioeconomic and environmental impact of the project site lifecycle, from construction to operations. Fluent in English and Spanish, I’m also passionate about building connections across cultures and disciplines to shape a more resilient, sustainable energy future through mentorship and outreach. I understand firsthand what it feels like to walk into a classroom, C-suite boardroom, nuclear construction field, and nuclear conferences and feel like I don't belong, especially as a Latina. I actively serve in leadership positions with Women in Nuclear (U.S. WIN), North American Young Generation in Nuclear (NAYGN), and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), where I advocate for professional development, diversity, and inclusion across the industry. Through these organizations, I don't just participate in STEM spaces, I reshape them. I lead STEM workshops, college readiness programs, engineering pipeline mentorships and professional development workshops for local grade schools, universities and professionals. I’ve spoken on panels to help students, many of them first-generation women students, visualize their futures in STEM. While I cannot afford to donate monetarily, I volunteer and lead a scholarship initiative for undergrad first-generation students pursuing a career in STEM. I believe diversity in engineering isn't just about representation, it's about reshaping the systems we build and the future we imagine. This fall, I will be attending graduate school for a Master of Science in Engineering with a concentration in Engineering Management at Virginia Commonwealth University. This degree will provide me with the tools necessary to lead complex nuclear development projects while continuing to use my platform to mentor others and advocate for underserved communities. My goal is to bridge the gap between technological advances and society all while ensuring to bring the voice of the underrepresented into these conversations. Through a combination of education, outreach and leadership, I hope to contribute meaningfully to building a more sustainable, inclusive and safer world.

I didn’t have the privilege of following a path, I designed one. As a first-generation student, the eldest of six children, and a woman in a male-dominated field like nuclear, I've learned that being the first often means being the blueprint. From translating documents for family members to starting my Masters of Science in Engineering with a concentration in Engineering Management and contributing to global nuclear energy projects, my journey has been anything but linear. My experience spans from engineering design, construction field walkdowns and engineering technical documentation. I bring strong coordination skills, a problem-solving mindset, and a drive to support clean energy development. Pursuing this master's will provide skills necessary to manage and lead complex nuclear development projects. Fluent in English and Spanish, I’m also passionate about building connections across cultures and disciplines to shape a more resilient, sustainable energy future through mentorship and outreach. I understand firsthand what it feels like to walk into a classroom, C-suite boardroom, nuclear construction field, and nuclear conferences and feel like I don't belong. I actively serve in leadership positions with Women in Nuclear (U.S. WIN), North American Young Generation in Nuclear (NAYGN), and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), where I advocate for professional development, diversity, and inclusion across the industry. Through these organizations, I don't just participate in STEM spaces, I reshape them. I lead STEM workshops, college readiness programs, engineering pipeline mentorships and professional development workshops for local grade schools, universities and professionals. I’ve spoken on panels to help students, many of them first-generation women students, visualize their futures in STEM. While I cannot afford to donate monetarily, I volunteer and lead a scholarship initiative for undergrad first-generation students perusing a career in STEM. I believe diversity in engineering isn't just about representation, it's about reshaping the systems we build and the future we imagine. Internationally, I have also represented the U.S during different international initiatives. I have lead urban development projects, in partnership with the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to design and implement a infiltration garden to mitigate flooding in high risk urban locations and while also supporting migrant communities in the state of Hidalgo. I've also represented the U.S. in the International Atomic Energy Agency Lise Meitner Program hosted in Argentina, where I helped created a project charter and execution plan to design, build, and license the domestic deployment of a first-of-a-kind nuclear small modular reactor using global nuclear standards and under the guidance of global nuclear leaders. I worked along side different nuclear professionals from Russia, France, Sweden, Kazakhstan, Japan, Kenya, the Netherlands, Poland, the UK, Canada, Belgium, Romania and Argentina. Back home in the U.S., I bring back that international effort, through mentorship and leadership that connects global innovation in nuclear to my local communities. As I continue to grow into my role as an engineer in the nuclear industry, I am often called upon to take on leadership roles in my workplace and community. As a first-generation student, woman and minority, I continually engage with respective global nuclear leaders and contribute to conversations on international collaboration, innovation, and workforce empowerment in nuclear energy. In order to grow more into a leadership position, I find it imperative to learn by doing. In this case, learning by doing means continuing my education beyond a bachelor’s degree. Over the years, I have spent helping others access resources and support through mentorship and public outreach programs. Today, I find myself seeking that same kind of support though scholarship opportunities like the Champions of a New Path Scholarship, as will allow me to continue advancing in my engineering career without the weight of student loan debt on my shoulders. This scholarship will help me fund my Master's of Science in Engineering with a concentration in Engineering Management at Virginia Commonwealth University while I continue working full-time to finish paying off the last of my mechanical engineering undergraduate student loan. My master’s degree will equip me with the necessary tools to build myself as a servant leader in the energy sector and expand my impact on a global scale. I believe I deserve the Champions of a New Path Scholarship, as I truly understand the power of academic support because I’ve been on both sides of it. I am committed to continuing the cycle of paying it forward.

I never had the privilege of following a path, I had to create one. As a first-generation student, the eldest of six children and 26 grandchildren, and a female engineer in a male-dominated field, I've learned that being the first often means being the blueprint. From translating documents for family members to starting my Master of Science in Engineering Management and contributing to global nuclear energy projects, my journey has been anything but linear. In my family's rural traditional culture, women are expected to marry young and have children. I choose differently. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at the age of 26, unwed and childless. Being the first to go to college, I pursued my engineering degree without financial (and emotional) support. I paid for my tuition out of pocket and faced every setback alone; sometimes retaking courses, working 30+ hours while taking full course loads and learning what advocating for myself meant. These adversities shaped my core values: resiliency and a deep sense of responsibility to light the way for others. I understand firsthand what it feels like to walk into a classroom, C-suite boardrooms, nuclear construction fields, and nuclear industry conferences and feel like I don't belong. Throughout my academic and technical roles, I have served in leadership roles at various organizations that champion diversity and equity across various underrepresented groups such as Women in Nuclear and Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. I have represented the U.S at International Atomic Energy Agency Lise Meitner Program, where I helped create a project charter and execution plan to design, build, and license the domestic deployment of a first-of-a-kind nuclear small modular reactor using global nuclear standards and under the guidance of global nuclear leaders. Back home in the U.S., I bring back that work, through leadership and mentorship that connects global innovation to local communities. I don't want to just participate in STEM spaces; I want to reshape them. I do believe that increasing access to STEM means having honest conversations about money, debt and navigating college as a first-generation student. I continue to volunteer for STEM nights at local schools, simplifying complex topics like nuclear into stories young bright minds can understand. I've spoken on panels to help community college and university students, many of them women of color, visualize their futures in STEM. I want to normalize the presence of diversity in STEM, particularly in the nuclear industry. Affording tuition with no family support or lack of financial guidance was the most stressful part of my engineering journey. With no guidance, I took out variable interest private loans to finance my degree, that skyrocketed to 18% by the time I graduated in December 2022. I live frugally- renting with roommates, driving my ole reliable 1995 BMW318i, and track every expense while making $2,000 monthly payments that I increase with every raise or bonus. This financial hardship led to me to donate my time and lead a scholarship initiative for undergrad first-generation students at my alma mater. Over the years, I have helped others access resources and support beyond my technical role. Today, I find myself seeking that same kind of support through Sloane Stephens Doc & Glo Scholarship as I continue working full-time to pay off my mechanical engineering undergraduate student loan and look for funding opportunities for my master's program. I truly understand the power of academic and financial support because I’ve been on both sides of it. I am committed to continuing the cycle of paying it forward.

Just as a house needs a strong foundation and framework, faith begins with a strong belief; one where trust in something greater than ourselves, shapes our own values and worth. Through faith, I believe I am worth the dreams I aspire to achieve. For dreams are placed in our hearts as a divine assignment, a part of greater plan. Without a strong foundation or framework, everything else crumbles. Faith is a house full of many rooms. Prayer, grace, grief and doubt uphold these rooms, embracing different complexities that my faith has held to throughout the many seasons of my life. From financing my undergrad degree in mechanical engineering as a first-generation student, to working with the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs on community service projects, to representing the U.S.A through the International Atomic Energy Agency Lise Meitner Program in Argentina for leadership training, to now going for my part-time masters in engineering while working full-time as an engineer in the nuclear industry and establishing a scholarship fund for underrepresented undergraduate students, each room has endured its own remodeling project to achieve my dream as a servant leader in the nuclear industry. Faith isn't blind, for windows let the light in. The light represents moments of clarity, divine guidance and understanding as I continue down my uncharted path as a woman in engineering. There are moments where I've sat in silence, praying that I passed my engineering classes or that the organizations I advocate in such as the Society of Hispanic Engineers and Women in Nuclear receive sponsorships to help others in need. I've often cried in these rooms, praying that I can make enough money to survive and pay off my undergraduate student loans all while working toward my career and creating space for others through diplomacy, education and community service. Tempted to fall into deep despair during these moments, the embrace of the warm sunlight pours through the windows, reminding me that I am worth my dream of financial freedom and being the voice for underrepresented communities as technology continues to evolve. Through trial and error, I've learned discernment to understand what I need to let in and what I need to walk away from. Coming from household where education was not valued and no family support, I've endured heartbreak, rejection, loneliness and pressure throughout these rooms. I learned to have faith in myself and believe in my worth, where as a woman, I am not restricted to marriage or motherhood, and that my ambition in education and career is not viewed as selfish or rebellious against traditional views. I've learned to welcome my truth and shut the door to anything that may put me in harm's way. Faith lives at the intersection of the known and unknown. It demands trust without guarantees, committing to something we can't fully see. Remodeling my faith has not been easy. I've had to tear down beliefs that were handed down to me that didn't fit with my values and worth. I've had to reinforce areas that cracked under pressure. I've has to brush dust off of my aspirations to maintain my dreams alive. Through advocacy work and stepping into rooms where policies are made, I've created space for those who come after me, to shelter in dreams I've once fought to believe in myself.

I come from a rural, traditional Mexican household, where I've had to break generational cycles and overcome barriers to pursue my undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering. Over the years, I've served as a caretaker, interpreter, tutor and advocate for my family. These responsibilities have taught me resilience, however, they also meant that I had to finance my own education, where it resulted in over $60,000 in student loans. Despite those challenges, I earned my degree and focus on building a more sustainable, equitable energy future on a global scale. As a first-generation student and female engineer, I am deeply aware that many people, especially those in underrepresented communities, are not familiar with the evolving energy landscape, particularly in the nuclear industry. That is why I am committed to bridging that gap. Receiving this scholarship would directly support both my educational and long-term career goals in nuclear energy. This fall, I will begin my Master's of Science in Engineering, with a concentration in Engineering Managment, where I will focus on gaining the technical and leadership skills needed to manage complex nuclear projects and advocate for energy solutions that balance environmental, social and economic needs on a global scale. Around the world, countries are ramping up their nuclear programs to meet the growing demands of energy while reducing their impact on the environment. While disasters such as Chernobyl, Three Mile Island, and Fukushima have shaped public perspective towards nuclear energy, these incidents have conjured international collaboration to strengthen nuclear safety and security. I find it imperative to continue fostering this conversation on nuclear safety and security in our communities, hence why I continue working in nuclear on a full-time level as an engineer and advocating in respective organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency, Women in Nuclear and the North American Young Generation in Nuclear. This scholarship will help me lessen the financial burden on my shoulders and allow me to shift my focus on advancing nuclear technologies, expanding international collaboration and mentoring the next generation of underrepresented STEM leaders rather than on financial constraints. As someone perusing a career at the intersection of energy, management and policy, the support from this scholarship will contribute to my ability to complete my course work while I continue to work full-time as an engineer to pay off my undergraduate student loans, attend relevant energy conferences and access research opportunities that will advance my practical experience as an emerging leader in the nuclear industry.

I remember failing thermodynamics, not once, but twice, when I was working toward my undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering. In order to pass, I needed a 70% average. I failed both times with a 69%. You see, the class rubric stated that only three exams accounted for your grade average. Harsh, right? However, according to most mechanical engineering professors, thermodynamics is a "weed out" class, meaning it is a challenging undergraduate course designed to reduce the number of students in the engineering program. The intention is to influence students to choose their major wisely early on in their college years or decide to drop out/switch majors after taking such "weed out" class. However, as a first-generation student, I couldn't afford to keep failing, college is terribly expensive. At the time, I working as an environmental engineer intern at a nearby pharmaceutical manufacturing plant while I was in school. When I received my final grade the second time around, I remember I was sitting in my office at work. I logged into my grade portal and saw the "D" on the screen. I was stunned. I really thought I had it the second time around. I vividly remember studying my tail off and pulling all-nighters in the library with my study group. Disappointed, I continued to work through my shift as if nothing happened. As you can imagine, I was actually pretty devastated about failing thermodynamics twice. To make it worse, the class was a prerequisite to my third-year engineering classes and offered only in the spring semester. Both times, I ended up failing the cumulative final exam. After the second time I failed, I felt lost. I had failed this class twice, and it was delaying my graduation year. I felt as if engineering wasn't for me, even though I was already working in the industry. I didn't know it yet, but this failure defined my engineering career and shaped me into the professional I am today. Despite knowing that it was a "weed out" class, I ended up taking thermodynamics for a third time the following spring semester. Knowing it would delay my graduation year, I accepted my losses and took advantage of this time to find new opportunities. During that time, I co-founded the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers chapter, a non-profit dedicated in promoting STEM through public outreach, mentorship, and professional development. Through SHPE-VCU, I organized several coding boot-camps, professional development career workshops and STEM public outreach events for college students and first-generation high school students. I also led funding initiatives, bringing in $30,000 annually to support chapter operational costs. Currently as an alumni, I established a $10,000 10 year anniversary alumni funded scholarship to fund operational costs and undergraduate scholarships for the student chapter. I also found my passion in the nuclear industry. I ended up finding an internship opportunity at a global Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) company that designs, procures and builds megastructure projects like nuclear power plants, solar farms, airports, cities, NASA rocket launchers etc. Now, I currently work here full time supporting a first-of-a-kind nuclear reactor demonstration project and am involved in leadership positions across various global non-profits that promote international collaboration, innovation, and workforce empowerment. To all the students who feel like they can't keep going - I urge them to push through. Your education is a valuable tool that opens doors to the unknown. Third time's the charm, I told myself. I studied, I cried, I even lost my graphing calculator during the process- but I persevered and passed.

As I continue to grow into my role as an engineer in the nuclear industry, I am often called upon to take on leadership roles in my workplace and community. As a first-generation student, woman and minority, I continually engage with respective global nuclear leaders and contribute to conversations on international collaboration, innovation, and workforce empowerment in nuclear energy. I actively hold leadership roles in organizations such as Women in Nuclear (WIN), North American Young Generation in Nuclear (NAYGN), the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers at Virginia Commonwealth University (SHPE-VCU) and the International Atomic Energy Agency Lise Meitner Program (IAEA-LMP). When given the right support, first generation students are exceptionally resilient and thrive. During my undergrad years, I co-founded the SHPE-VCU student chapter, a non-profit dedicated in promoting STEM through public outreach, mentorship, and professional development. Through SHPE-VCU, I organized several coding boot-camps, professional development career workshops and STEM public outreach events for college students and first-generation high school students. I also led funding initiatives, bringing in $30,000 annually to support chapter operational costs. Currently as an alumni, I established a $10,000 10 year anniversary alumni funded scholarship to fund operational costs and undergraduate scholarships for the student chapter. On a professional level, I am committed to building the future of nuclear as a global solution for clean sustainable energy. I am an engineer on a first-of-a-kind nuclear advanced reactor development project in a private-public partnership with U.S. Department of Energy. This project will bring clean reliable energy to over 500,000 homes and business in the surrounding community. True to my roots of mentorship and outreach, I continue to create space for knowledge transfer between experienced nuclear professionals and the public. I am Vice President of North American Young Generation in Nuclear(NAYGN) employer chapter, where I help lead Capitol Hill Day in Washington DC, advocating for Nuclear technologies and safety to US. Government Representatives. I also serve as Public Outreach Chair for Women In Nuclear(WIN), hosting workshops regarding STEM, nuclear history, safety and upcoming technologies for professionals, local universities and K-12 students in the DC/Virginia/Maryland region. Internationally, I am also supporting the establishment of a WIN Poland chapter to support new nuclear development in Poland. I am also a participate of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Lise Meitner Program, where I advocate for peaceful nuclear energy uses through technical and professional development trainings. In order to grow more into a leadership position, I find it imperative to learn by doing. In this case, learning by doing means continuing my education beyond a bachelor’s degree. Over the years, I have spent helping others access resources and support through mentorship and public outreach programs. Today, I find myself seeking that same kind of support through this opportunity. This grant will allow me to continue advancing in my engineering career without the weight of student loan debt on my shoulders. It will help me fund my Master's of Science in Engineering with a concentration in Engineering Management at Virginia Commonwealth University while I continue working full-time to finish paying off the last of my mechanical engineering undergraduate student loan. My master’s degree will equip me with the necessary tools to build myself as a servant leader in the energy sector and expand my impact on a global scale. I truly understand the power of academic support because I’ve been on both sides of it - and I am committed to continuing the cycle of paying it forward.

My background in mechanical engineering and engineering management will empower me to shape the building the future of nuclear energy on a global scale. My experience spans throughout the nuclear construction lifecycle, from engineering design and calculations to construction field walkdowns and technical documentation, on projects such as the advanced nuclear reactor Natrium Demonstration Project (where I am currently supporting) and Nuclear Power Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 (where I was a construction field mechanical engineer). I bring strong coordination skills, a problem-solving mindset, and a drive to support clean energy development through safe, scalable nuclear solutions. I’m a Plant Design and Piping Engineer working at the intersection of advanced nuclear energy, EPC execution, and regulatory support. I currently work at a global Engineering, Procurement, and Construction company (EPC), supporting the design, construction and operations start-up of a first of a kind nuclear reactor power plant, Natrium. As an engineer, I work closely with supply chain and construction management to ensure design constructability for critical safety systems throughout the nuclear plant. Being on a first-of-a-kind project, I support different manufacturers to ensure that their products are technically acceptable to use for our systems. Having past experience not only in nuclear construction, but also in machine manufacturing, I have seen how both construction and manufacturing shape the outcome of a first of a kind project. Both construction and manufacturing adhere to codes and standards in order to ensure the safety and quality throughout the lifetime of the project cycle. This is imperative to focus on the availability and components needed to build such projects that impact the livelihood of the communities they are built in. Beyond my technical role as an engineer, I empower younger generations and demographics that often aren't seen in manufacturing or construction through different respective organizations. I actively serve in leadership positions with North American Young Generation in Nuclear (NAYGN), U.S. Women in Nuclear (U.S. WiN),the International Atomic Energy Agency Lise Meitner Program (IAEA-LMP) and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) where I advocate for professional development, diversity, and inclusion across the industry on a global scale. As a first-generation student, woman and minority in the EPC world, I engage with respective global nuclear leaders and contribute to conversations on international collaboration, innovation, and workforce empowerment in nuclear energy. Over the years, I have spent helping others access resources and support beyond my technical role. Today, I find myself seeking that same kind of support through this opportunity. Eldorado Tools Scholarship will allow me to continue advancing in my engineering career without the weight of student loan debt on my shoulders. This scholarship will help me fund my Master's in science in Engineering with a concentration in Engineering Management at Virginia Commonwealth University while I continue working full-time to pay off my mechanical engineering undergraduate student loan. This degree will prepare me with the necessary skills to grow as a leader in the energy sector and expand my impact on both a national and global scale. I truly understand the power of academic support because I’ve been on both sides of it - and I am committed to continuing the cycle of paying it forward.

Ahh, yes… Calculus, a mechanical engineer’s best friend! As a mechanical engineer, I became very fond of Calculus, despite us having a rocky start in high school. To be quite honest, when I first met Calculus, I couldn't wrap my head around the fact that it could be used to describe and model how systems change! Yet, as I began to understand Calculus and learned how to speak and write the same language, I realized that its different dialects, such as differential calculus and integral calculus, helped me understand how to optimize my system design calculations and modifications. In mechanical engineering, calculus is used in various applications. Differential calculus is used to figure out how forces will move objects, for example, when we are trying to measure how car engines and brakes work together to control the speed of the car. Integral calculus is used to understand how energy itself changes and how that energy changes in machines, for example, how materials such as rubber and metal will react when faced with temperature changes or crashed into. I wholeheartedly believe that calculus is important to the STEM field, due to its versatility in applications across different industries, STEM or not STEM related across the globe. Upon the ancient beginnings of calculus to its modernization through the learnings of Issac Newton and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, we learned that we could use calculus to explain natural phenomenon, which often is not neat and very chaotic. In STEM, our problems in our respect fields often come from how things change, grow, decays or flows. Calculus is that tool that helps us solve these complex problems for complex systems through the use of equations. Calculus helps us predict and control how well (or how bad) our physical system design will work. It guides us throughout the lifecycle of product delivery, from the theoretical analysis of a system design to the predicting and setting start-up and operation conditions of the physical system. Having interfaced with different organizations and regulatory bodies on a global scale, I can say that calculus is a universal language used across different fields around the world. It's not just a set of equations; it gives humanity the ability to model and control change. It gives us a vision, one where between science, math, and the humanities, are able to design the future, prevent catastrophe and understand life at a fundamental level. From atoms to galaxies, to epidemics to the creation of the internet, calculus gives us the mathematical tool to understand, design, and control our environments.

Whether in college advocating for STEM to first generation high school students locally or advocating for nuclear energy on a global scale, I am passionate about mentorship and equitable access to opportunities. As the oldest of six children and 26 grandchildren in a first-generation immigrant household-where the highest level of education was middle school- navigating college was daunting. I realized how students like myself face multiple systematic challenges such as bias, language barriers and economic hardships. I was fortunate enough to find my mentor who guided me through my engineering undergrad. This mentorship provided unique guidance navigating college, careers and identities. In turn, this empowered me to mentor peers and advocate for opportunities and inclusion within the College of Engineering and beyond. When given the right support, first generation students are exceptionally resilient and thrive. During my undergrad years, I co-founded the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers at Virginia Commonwealth University(SHPE-VCU) student chapter, a non-profit dedicated in promoting STEM through public out reach, mentorship, and professional development. Through SHPE-VCU, I organized several coding boot-camps, professional development career workshops and STEM public outreach events for college students and first-generation high school students. I also led funding initiatives, bringing in $30,000 annually to support chapter operational costs. Currently as an alumni, I established a $10,000 10 year anniversary alumni funded scholarship to fund operational costs and undergraduate scholarships for the student chapter. On a professional level, I am committed to building the future of nuclear as a global solution for clean sustainable energy. I am an engineer on a first of a kind nuclear power plant development project in a private-public partnership with U.S. Department of Energy. I conduct research regarding socioeconomic and environmental impact of the project site lifecycle, from construction to operations. True to my roots of mentorship and outreach, I continue to create space for knowledge transfer between experienced nuclear professionals and the public. I am Vice President of North American Young Generation in Nuclear(NAYGN) employer chapter, where I help lead Capitol Hill Day in Washington DC, advocating for Nuclear technologies and safety to US. Government Representatives. I also serve as Public Outreach Chair for Women In Nuclear(WIN), hosting workshops regarding STEM, nuclear history, safety and upcoming technologies for professionals, local universities and K-12 students in the DC/Virginia/Maryland region. Internationally, I am also supporting the establishment of a WIN Poland chapter to support new nuclear development in Poland. I am also a participate of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Lise Meitner Program, where I will assist with refurbishment and development of the Argentinian Nuclear Power Program. Being first generation, I am cognizant how little the general public knows about nuclear energy and its safety culture. As global energy demand grows, it is vital to we understand and communicate the socioeconomic and environmental impact this will have especially on the communities it will affect the most. I believe education and transparency are essential for building trust and ensuring inclusive progress. This fall, I will be attending graduate school for a Master of Science in Engineering with a concentration in Engineering Management at Virginia Commonwealth University. This degree will provide me with the tools necessary to lead complex nuclear development projects while continuing to use my platform to mentor others and advocate for underserved communities. My goal is to bridge the gap between technological advances and society all while ensuring to bring the voice of the underrepresented into these conversations. Through a combination of education, outreach and leadership, I hope to contribute meaningfully to building a more sustainable, inclusive and safer world.

One technology that inspires me is nuclear technology. It is used in nuclear reactors to generate energy, in medicine to examine organ functions or defense to power military submarines and aircraft. It's found industrial settings such as nondestructive testing and inspection, oil and gas exploration and road construction. Even when it comes to our food, this technology is used to sterilize tools and equipment as well as destroy microorganisms, bacteria, viruses or insects that maybe present. It is used to make the world cleaner, safer and more secure. Being fascinated by this fact, I am currently an engineer on an active nuclear advanced reactor development project that's a public-private partnership with the U.S Department of Energy and other entities. When this project is complete, the advanced reactor power plant will have replaced an old existing coal power plant and generate electricity to power over 500,000 homes and businesses in a nearby town. This nuclear-generated electricity decreases over millions of metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions that otherwise comes from fossil fuels. Around the world, countries are establishing or revamping their nuclear programs to welcome in new nuclear development. While in the past, there has been devastating accidents such as Chernobyl, Three Mile Island or Fukushima - such events have prompted global partnerships to ensure nuclear safety and security through organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Nuclear safety promotes proper operating conditions, prevention of accidents and advocating for safe practices for the workers, the public, and the environment. Nuclear security is also promoted to prevent malicious acts involving nuclear materials or radioactive substances. Through the IAEA, I will be representing the United States along with other member countries in the Lise Meitner Program, where I will gain insight in refurbishment and development of the Argentinian Nuclear Power Program. Being first generation myself, I am cognizant of the fact that not many people know about what nuclear is and how safe it is compared to other energy sources. While development is happening on a global scale, it is important to note the socioeconomical and environmental impact of this technology. I will attend graduate school this fall for a Master of Science in Engineering. Through this master's program, I plan to gain the skills necessary to manage complex nuclear development projects as energy demand continues to rise globally, while keeping the end user in mind.

To me, generational wealth means the ability to create and maintain wealth for generations to come. When I think of generational wealth, I think of it as if it were like the Tree of Life. The Tree of Life is known as a source of life, sort of a force that connects all lives or the cycle of life and death itself. Generational wealth is similar to the Tree of Life, where the source of money is a force that connects the generations or the cycles of growth and risk-taking. Similar to the process of growing a tree, generational wealth is as followed: 1. The seed: The seed is the idea of generational wealth. It is planted with the vision and ambition of obtaining wealth to pass down to the next generation. 2. The roots: The roots are grounded to provide a strong foundation to build generational wealth. 3: The tree trunk: Each ring in the tree trunk represents hard work and major investments throughout the years. 4. The Branches: The branches represent the different paths of wealth that are created by different sources of income or monetary gain. 5. The fruits: The fruits represent the outcome of the work and investments. In this case: tangible assets such as real estate, luxury lifestyle, avoiding student loans or any kind of debt. In my family, my parents planted the seed of generational wealth by migrating from Mexico and grounding their roots in the United States. Their hard work throughout the years provided the American dream to my five siblings and me. My siblings and I branched off of my parent's hard work and grew freely to choose our career paths. We navigated through the educational and professional system in the United States and now are harvesting the fruits of our family labor. To make sure that the tree can continue thriving and giving fruit to future generations, it is important to pass down the knowledge of what it took to grow the tree and develop a process on how to maintain it. As my parents planted the seed, I plan to achieve well-established generational wealth by continuing down my path of being a patent lawyer. I recently graduated with a B.S. in Mechanical engineering with a minor in Applied Mathematics. Although I tried my best to not graduate with debt, I ended up taking on student loan debt to finish paying my undergraduate debt. Despite that, I continue to work in my full-time mechanical engineering position and study for the law school admissions test (LSAT) to get into law school and achieve my dream of becoming a patent attorney. I am also learning how to invest in the stock market and learning different avenues of passive income to maintain myself throughout law school and beyond. By establishing and growing generational wealth, I want to be able to provide a comfortable life for myself, my parents and our future family generations. I’d like to pay off my debt and save for the expenses that come with having children and to be able to pay off their tuition so they can avoid student debt. I want to teach my children, grandchildren and maybe even my great-grandchildren the importance of remembering their humble beginnings and carrying on the legacy of the hard work my parents and I put into our generational wealth. I’d like to be able to retire my parents comfortably without sending them to a nursing home and providing them with the best care in the comfort of my home.

First generation college graduate, Latina, mechanical engineer, high school student mentor, aspiring patent lawyer, and future donor to community laundry mats. These are descriptions of who I am and what I aspire to do. As the oldest of six children in an immigrant household, I continue to be first in my family achieve major milestones. I recently graduated with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Applied Mathematics. It took me seven years to graduate due to lack of financial aid. Nonetheless, over those seven years, I interned at the largest global construction company on a Nuclear Power Plant project, major pharmaceutical manufacturer and now work full-time at a major global bakery systems company. I was also a participant and urban development project owner during an immersion and volunteering program hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mexico. This inspired me to take courses in engineering law, business law, and an intro class to virtual and augmented reality. Working in various fields and learning how laws and politics affect technology advancement, I aspire to use my engineering degree to become a patent attorney. I believe it is important for engineers like myself to help others protect their innovations. During undergrad, I was a founding mother of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) at my university. This national organization is dedicated to promoting Hispanic leadership in the STEM field. I first held the position of community service chair, where I lead “Dia de Ciencias”, a program where over 75 first-generation Latinx students were hosted at the College of Engineering and part-took in different hands-on STEAM activities. During my last three years, I served as president. I lead my team of four executive board members in raising over thirty thousand dollars to assist 35 student members with travel accommodations and convention registration fees. I believe in the importance of giving back to create change in your community. I am also involved in mentoring first-generation high school students through the college application process through the Virginia Latinx Higher Education Network (VALHEN). I recognize that it is often difficult to navigate the college application process as a first-generation. I also interpret/translate for non-English speaking families at nearby elementary schools. To ensure that I am correctly interpreting and translating, I am enrolled in a Spanish Interpretation and Translation Certification program at my university to be legally certified to interpret and translate in legal spaces. Paying off my student debt will give me a sense of relief as I pursue my dream of becoming a patent attorney. If presented with this scholarship, it would help pay down my undergrad loans, as I did not receive much financial aid. I could then focus on saving up for my law degree expenses. I plan to pay this scholarship forward by giving back to underrepresented communities. My dream, apart from becoming a patent attorney, is to support local laundry mats in underrepresented communities. Some may not realize this, but laundry mats are a community hub, where members of the community hear about the latest neighborhood news or opportunities. I would love to assist in renovation costs and partnering with non-profits to provide hot meal programs on select days, child/adult educational services or simply just a safe and cozy environment while doing laundry. And lastly, I would use this scholarship as a mini breather to prepare myself for law school. I want to be able to enjoy my career as a patent lawyer and on a personal level have my own little family, without the worry of crushing debt.