On Saturday, October 5, 2024, Norco College’s Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) Program held its annual Student Success Day, bringing together current students with successful STEM alumni. The event highlighted the educational journeys and professional accomplishments of six former students, providing a rich platform for mentorship, guidance, and inspiration.

The MESA Program has long been dedicated to supporting students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), fostering an environment where academic success and career readiness are prioritized. This event was designed to give current students firsthand exposure to the paths their alumni have taken, showing them that their dreams in STEM fields are not only possible but achievable.

Among the featured alumni was Jimena Hernandez-Garcia, who has previously been highlighted for her academic achievements and success in the field of engineering. Jimena, alongside five other distinguished STEM alumni, shared her unique journey, discussing the challenges and opportunities she encountered in her education and current career.

The featured alumni included:

  • Jimena Hernandez-Garcia: Earned a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of California, Riverside. She has served as a Peer Mentor and currently works as an Electrical Quality Engineer at Hyundai America.

  • Miguel Toledo: Obtained a B.S. in Chemistry with a minor in Environmental Science from the University of California, Santa Barbara. He is now a Manager/Senior Process Engineer at Apeel Sciences in Goleta, CA.

  • Estefani Ontiveros: Graduated with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from California State University, Los Angeles. She currently holds the position of Structural Analysis Engineer at Terran Orbital.

  • Harsha Antony: Pursuing a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at the University of California, Riverside. She has participated in various research initiatives and internships, including those with NASA and the Department of Defense.

  • Valerie Flores: Holds a B.S. in Biology from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and an M.S. in Public Health Policy and Administration from California Baptist University. She works as a Project Manager at Nitto Avecia Pharma Services.

  • Taylor Pedretti: Earned a B.S. in Computer Science from California State University, San Bernardino. He is currently a Software Engineer at VSolvit.

The day was filled with dynamic interactions, with students engaging in thoughtful conversations, asking questions, and receiving valuable advice. The alumni covered a variety of topics, from navigating academic challenges to exploring career options and maintaining work-life balance in fast-paced STEM environments.

Dr. Monica Green, President of Norco College, commended the alumni for their dedication to giving back to the Norco College community. “Our alumni are proof that with the right support and determination, our students can achieve incredible things. The connections made at events like Student Success Day help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.”

About the MESA Program

The MESA Program at Norco College is part of a statewide effort to support educationally disadvantaged students in STEM disciplines. The program offers academic support, tutoring, counseling, and exposure to industry professionals, ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed in competitive STEM fields. MESA is recognized for its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and plays a critical role in preparing students for transfer to four-year universities and beyond.

Norco College is proud of its MESA Program and looks forward to continuing to provide opportunities for students to connect with alumni and industry professionals to further their education and career aspirations.

 

For more information about the MESA Program at Norco College.