I'm thinking of engineering as a career path because it perfectly aligns with my passion for STEM and my desire to shape and improve our world through technology. As a first-generation, low-income student at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, I've faced numerous challenges, but these have only fueled my determination to succeed in this field. I'm fascinated by how engineering can solve real-world problems and contribute to technological advancements that impact our daily lives. My journey towards engineering began in high school when I first discovered the power of science and mathematics to explain and manipulate the world around us. I was captivated by the idea that I could use these tools to create solutions to real-world problems. This fascination has only grown stronger as I've witnessed the rapid advancement of technology in recent years and its increasing integration into every aspect of our lives. As a BIPOC student, I'm acutely aware of the lack of diversity in the engineering field. This awareness drives me to work even harder, not just for my own success, but also to become a role model for other students of color who aspire to enter STEM fields. I believe that increasing diversity in engineering will bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the industry, ultimately benefiting society as a whole. My hands-on engineering experience so far has been limited, as I'm still in the early stages of my undergraduate studies. However, I've actively sought out opportunities to engage with engineering concepts and practices. For instance, I've participated in several robotics workshops organized by the university's engineering department, where I learned about basic programming and mechanical design. These workshops gave me a taste of what it's like to apply engineering principles to create functional devices, and they've only reinforced my desire to pursue this field. Also, I'm actively looking for internship opportunities that will provide me with more extensive hands-on experience in the field. I believe these practical experiences will be crucial in bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, preparing me for a successful career in engineering. Looking ahead, I'm excited about the potential to contribute to cutting-edge technologies that could revolutionize our world. Whether it's developing more efficient renewable energy systems, creating advanced medical devices, or working on the next generation of artificial intelligence, I see engineering as a field with limitless possibilities for innovation and positive impact. My ultimate goal is to become a successful graduate student in engineering, and eventually, a professional engineer who can contribute meaningfully to technological advancements while also inspiring and mentoring the next generation of BIPOC engineers. I'm excited about the challenges ahead and am committed to overcoming them with the same determination that has brought me this far. To conclude, engineering represents not just a career path for me, but a way to fulfill my passion for STEM, make a positive impact on the world, and pave the way for greater diversity in the field. With each step I take in my education and each hands-on experience I gain, I become more convinced that this is the right path for me, and I'm eager to see where it will lead.

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