I received a full scholarship from Cornell University and finished my bachelor’s of science in electrical engineering in 2005. I stayed on to pursue my master’s, became a research associate and taught at the university for several years. I started my Ph.D. in 2011 and completed my dissertation in graphene bioelectronics in 2014. In 2013, I started my career as an equipment and process engineer with Applied Materials and continued to work with the company while completing my degree. In 2015, I relocated to California to work for a small MEMS foundry as their equipment engineer, and soon after was hired by Garmin as their senior design engineer designing the newest technologies in automation and global positioning systems.
What is your greatest professional or personal achievement to date?
The greatest professional achievement was completing my doctorate and publishing my work in Nature, the most prestigious scientific journal in the world. My biggest personal achievement was breaking down the definition of normal that is regularly self-imposed upon us and daring to be different, imperfect and fluid, without caring how I am perceived.
How did KCP prepare you for your career?
KCP offered a unique experience because one was able to interact with students and teacher from all walks of life, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or social stature. This diversity was key in preparing me for an engineering culture that embraces inclusiveness regardless of background.
Why are you proud to be KCP?
The sense of community bestowed upon the students. I also enjoyed my advanced Calculus class with Mrs. Consuelo Rubio.
