Episode 10 - What's it like to be a first-generation engineering undergraduate student?

In this episode, Paul interviews two current first-generation college students (Ruby Valdez and Javier Ruedas) about their experiences in engineering programs. They are joined by Dr. Jessica Perez, who is a faculty member in the Electromechanical Engineering Technology Department at Cal Poly Pomona with extensive experience examining issues related to first-generation college students. Paul mentioned a NY Times article from Nov 3, 2017: Are You First Gen? Depends on Who’s Asking Ruby mentioned how she benefited from AVID in high school and the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) in college. Javier mentioned Cal Poly Pomona’s Maximizing Engineering Potential Program (MEP) and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Have comments about this episode? Send your feedback to [email protected] and Paul will personally read your email. Soundboard run by Gerardo Maldonado. Episode edited by Paul Nissenson. This episode was recorded on November 20, 2019 at Cal Poly Pomona.