Helloooooo everyone! ≽^•⩊•^≼
My name is Nancy Martinez, and I’m a rising sophomore at Jones studying Civil & Environmental Engineering! I’m focused on Urban Planning and want to do more with making cities more accessible in regards to transportation and water resources. During my time at Rice, my goal is to really just get involved in more things that I’m interested in and want to embrace more of my culture. I’m heavily involved in Mariachi Luna Llena and Across All Borders, both clubs have helped me be closer with the Hispanic community at Rice and are stress relievers from hefty engineering courses. In the future, I definitely want to work with Hispanic communities doing Civil & Environmental Engineering projects, which makes this trip perfect for me!
The iSEED Mexico program has captivated my interest for a long time, not only due to its wonderful location but also the program’s significant educational benefits. As a first-generation, Mexican woman, this program would provide me an opportunity to deepen my connection with my cultural identity and explore the intricacies of civil engineering within Mexico. These topics hold immense importance for me, especially since I am pursuing a minor in Latin American Studies. Engaging hands-on in a different region of Mexico than the one I’m familiar with will provide me with a unique perspective that classroom learning alone cannot offer. Pictured is the view from my grandparents home in San De Los Lagos, Jalisco, Mexico!
Additionally, the program’s emphasis on collaboration with local communities resonates deeply with my ambitions in civil engineering. I am passionate about engaging directly with community members on projects, mirroring the program’s approach, and acknowledging that good theoretical solutions may not always translate into practical effectiveness. The opportunity to work alongside individuals who have innovatively addressed water purification challenges and devised practical solutions for their own communities is a profoundly enriching experience. Along with the program offering a unique opportunity to study in both a more metropolitan area and a more traditional area in Mexico adds an additional layer of cultural exploration. Going on this abroad journey will help to broaden my horizons to projects beyond the context of the United States.
Thank you for reading the coolest blog post ever! Now, you get more photos and fun facts to look through. •ᴗ•
I really enjoyed the hit TV show Breaking Bad. I know it’s a very popular TV show but I think its recognition is deserved rather than overhyped. I am currently still watching the spin off series (Better Call Saul) and am IN LOVE with it. More so than the original series. I highly highly highly recommend Breaking Bad. The photo is me dressed as a Pollos Hermanos Employee!
I did a lot of Latin courses in high school and made a lot of my friends through that! I loved the language and community and there were also super fun trips involved in the program. Here is a picture of the National Latin Competition last year! It was in Atlanta, Georgia so we also stopped by the aquarium and overall was one of the best out of state trips I had during my time in high school. If you ask me if I still know Latin phrases…it would take me a couple of minutes to do some translations.
Thank you for reading the blog + fun facts!!! Have a wonderful day!!