Q & A

How does it feel to have become a first-generation college graduate?

Being a first generation college graduate is too big of a subject to wrap my head around. At one end, I reached one of the goals that I set out to achieve. I feel both proud of myself for completing this feat while also feeling nervous for what the future holds. At the same time, I’m excited to see what I can make of myself now. I can’t even begin to imagine how the next few years to come will end up going.

What are your future plans – after graduation and longer term career goals?

My future careers include pursing a job in my field. I’m currently working at Tesla in the GigaTexas Site as part of the New Product Introduction team. In the long term, a career goal of mine is to work as an engineer while having a good work-life balance.

Tell us about the impact your Breakthrough experience has had on your life? What impact has it had on your family?

I always say this when I speak about Breakthrough, but I would not be where I am today if it was not for this program. Without the guidance, opportunities, experience, or community that Breakthrough has offered throughout the last 10 years of my life, I would not of had the level of success I have achieved so far. The program began influencing each aspect of my life from the very start, from the people in my life, to the work experienced I gained throughout high school and college. Breakthrough saw me and my cohort grow up alongside the staff who dedicated their time and effort to help us reach our goals. I went from meeting the Site Directors who later became my co-workers, and the summer friends that turned into life-long friends and roommates. Even my family has been able to seek opportunities and guidance because of Breakthrough.