Former STEM student shares her experience and gratitude
“With so much uncertainty looming with the pandemic and a stressful Spring 2020 semester, there were two events headed my way that kept me going: I would transfer from Santa Barbara City College in the Fall as a Biochemistry student to San Diego State University, and begin my summer internship with Northrop Grumman as a Technical Software Engineer.
Resources like Extended Opportunities Program and Services (EOPS), Science Transfer Program (STP), and Mathematics Engineering and Science Achievement (MESA) guided me through my STEM journey. As a first-generation, LatinX student with no safety net, these services didn’t just support me. I was more than prepared to transfer.
Northrop Grumman, an aerospace and defense company, surprised me in more ways than one. Notably, my manager was a female software engineer. I also had the opportunity to work with manufacturing, software, and electrical engineers from around the world. I met interns from various states and countries. I am ever so grateful to the Federal Title III Grant: Removing Barriers to STEM Success for sponsoring myself and a group of young intelligent SBCC women to attend the Grace Hopper Celebration, where I received Northrop Grumman’s table offer.
The opportunity to transfer and work at an internationally renowned company doesn’t happen often. I can attest so much of my success to the Santa Barbara City College faculty and staff who supported me along the way. Thank you.”
~Jeanette Espinoza
