Hometown: Xalapa, México

Technical Area: Spaceflight

What made you decide to pursue an aerospace engineering degree?

I have always liked everything space related. Since I was five years old, I remember looking at the sky and wondering what was beyond that. I wanted to study something that could answer those questions. However, I did not know about this major until I found about it online. I read about aerospace engineering and I was fascinated with it. I thought it fit me perfectly and I didn’t think twice.

What has been your biggest challenge while pursuing your aerospace degree at UT?

Being not only a transfer student, but also an international student, was very challenging. I think my biggest challenge was the language and the culture. I was always afraid I was not going to understand or be understood by others. I was worried I would fail or I wouldn’t like it. Thankfully, it was not like that. Students and professors are very reachable, nice, and willing to help. Everyone is there to give you a hand if anything gets difficult. There is no challenge that cannot be overcome.

What are some things you really enjoy about living in Austin, TX?

I love living in Austin. I like how you can be yourself and everybody respects you. I love that it is very diverse and has a lot to offer. I like that you can learn a lot from people from various places in the world. It is also a cultural place with many activities for different interests: music, art, sports, etc. It is a great city with an environment that welcomes you no matter who you are or where you are from.