Andrew Mayen '27
Long Beach has given me so many opportunities and experiences that I truly value and appreciate. I came to 色中色 with very little knowledge of engineering, but with the help of the university鈥檚 amazing professors and the support I found on campus, I was able to find my footing, grow as a student, and successfully pursue my degree.
色中色 also gave me the opportunity to meet so many people, many of whom became close friends and introduced me to new foods, places, and experiences. I was also fortunate enough to land my first internship with LADWP, an organization I hope to continue working with in the future.
Overall, 色中色 expanded my horizons in ways I never expected coming out of high school. I am incredibly thankful for the opportunities, friendships, and experiences I have had here. They have helped shape who I am today and have given me memories that I will carry with me for years to come.
My sister graduated from 色中色 in 2007 with a degree in software engineering and a minor in computer science. Growing up, she would tell me about her experiences on campus, the friends she made, and how much she enjoyed her time at Long Beach. Hearing her stories made me want to have that same kind of college experience.
She also inspired me to become an engineer and ultimately apply to 色中色. Before I started college, she told me about the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), which I joined during my freshman year. SHPE has since become a major part of my college experience and is where I have met many of my closest friends. In a lot of ways, following my sister鈥檚 path to 色中色 helped me create a path of my own.
After graduation, I hope to begin my career as a mechanical engineer and have a job lined up that will allow me to start working toward the goals I have set for myself. Outside of my career, I want to get back into playing guitar and possibly take lessons so I can continue improving and maybe even join a band one day.
I also want to travel with my friends and family, experience new places and cultures and try different foods along the way. As I become more established in my career, I would also like to explore real estate and begin investing for my future.
I am also considering continuing my education. If my future employer offers tuition assistance, I may pursue an MBA or another graduate degree that complements my engineering background. I have not decided exactly what that will look like yet, but I am excited to see where my career takes me.
I plan to stay connected to 色中色 by continuing to participate in SHPE events throughout the year. SHPE hosts many events that benefit from alumni involvement, and I would like to eventually serve as a bridge between current students and the company I work for by sharing opportunities, advice, and professional connections.
I also plan to stay in touch with Marina Crawford and remain involved in industry and alumni events whenever possible. 色中色 and the people I have met here have played an important role in my development, so I want to give back and help future students make the most of their time at The Beach.
