Innovating on the Farm: Melissa’s Story

Growing up around chickens and pigs isn’t an obvious starting place for an engineer, but Melissa is set to change that. She’s studying computer engineering at UC Davis in hopes of giving back to the agriculture-focused community she comes from - specifically by bringing innovations and robotics to help farmworkers.

College: University of California, Davis, studying Computer Engineering

• What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM or a trade, and what excites you most about this path?

  Coming from a primarily agriculture-focused community, I pursued STEM not only because I was passionate about it, but also so that I can give back to my community in the future. I am excited to use my skills in automation and robotics to create innovations that will reduce the laborious process for farmworkers in the agricultural industry.

• How do you see this scholarship helping you achieve your career goals, and what difference do you hope to make in your field?

  The SEFF Scholarship gives me confidence in my ability to embark on new adventures and find internships or academic research positions so that I can learn more about how to make a significant difference in the STEM world. I am ready to make change and take on my dreams without limits.

• Who has been your biggest supporter or role model throughout your education?

  My sister has undoubtedly supported me through thick and thin. She pushes me to become a better version of myself and gives me confidence that I can achieve more than what I believe.

• What are you most excited about as you begin your college or trade school journey?

  As I embark on this new journey, I can’t wait to build new experiences and partake in extracurricular and academic endeavors. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to experiment, research, and innovate through my computer engineering studies.

• What’s one fun fact about you that people might not expect from someone pursuing a career in your field?

  Although I am interested in computer engineering, people are always shocked to hear that I grew up around 15 chickens and have raised two pigs throughout my life.

• If you could instantly learn any skill before starting college or trade school, what would it be?

  If I could instantly learn any skill before starting college, I would definitely choose to master my comprehension skills because most exams and studies revolve around it.

• If you had an entire day to do whatever you wanted—no school or work—how would you spend it?

  If I had an entire day where I could do whatever I wanted, I would spend it painting. Painting with music has always been a hobby of mine and allows me to feel at peace with myself.