Washington MESA is celebrating 40 years of empowering students and building futures! Read more about the impact we’ve had on our community and share your MESA Story.
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Sky Cisneros
A journey of creativity and problem-solving
One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in MESA Club was during my first year, when my friends and I participated in the school’s annual food fundraiser. This event, where clubs sell food and turn the school into a vibrant street fair, gave me the perfect opportunity to blend creativity and the scientific method. Together, we decided to create an “engineer’s quesadilla,” or the MESAdilla.
What began as a fun food idea quickly evolved into a hands-on experiment. We spent time drawing out our plans, testing recipes, and tweaking our design until we perfected it. Our MESAdilla had three layers made from one tortilla, carefully cut to account for area loss when folding over thick ingredients. It was like being food scientists, testing different cheeses and tortillas to determine the ideal balance of meltability and structural integrity. The process not only helped us raise money for the school but also allowed us to apply the scientific method in a practical and enjoyable way.
This experience stands out as my favorite because it allowed me to combine my love for food, science, and creativity. It was a reminder that problem-solving and innovation can come in many forms—whether it’s engineering a perfect quesadilla or solving complex equations.
A creator at heart
At my core, I am a creator. I’ve always had a passion for understanding how the world works, whether it’s through mathematics, music, or the art of cooking. I’m constantly daydreaming, imagining improvements, and finding solutions. This mindset extends to my love for cooking, where I’ve found that baking is essentially chemistry. I’ve spent years experimenting with doughs, learning how to control yeast respiration, manipulate gluten proteins, and even explore the magic of the Maillard reaction—all through trial and error, combined with self-guided research.
This passion for creation and exploration is something I’ve inherited from my family. My grandfather and uncle are both engineers, and my dad is a geoscientist. Growing up, we built things together, like a climbing wall in our backyard, and I even helped build a second story to our house without a construction company. These experiences reinforced my desire to build and innovate, and I’ve continued that spirit in my own life. I’ve even crafted furniture for my room, including a Lego display shelf and a piano stand, always enjoying the process of turning ideas into tangible creations.
Engineering as a path to innovation
I’ve realized that my love for problem-solving and creativity is a perfect fit for applied engineering and design. Whether I’m developing new recipes or designing innovative products, the joy of critical thinking and creating something new is what drives me. Engineering and design offer a world of possibilities, and I’m eager to explore the many fields within this broad subject. I believe that the best way to succeed is to find something you love to do and find someone who will pay you for it, and I am confident that engineering and design are where my passions and skills align.
Shaelin Triebe, Spokane MESA
A journey of discovery and innovation
One of the most impactful experiences I’ve had through the MESA program was participating in the MESA Design Challenge. The challenge inspired me to think outside the box and expanded my love for science. It pushed me to be more creative and innovative, and it eventually led to me and my classmate winning 1st and 2nd place in the HeroX Parity Project. The $1000 prize was a tremendous help, and I know I wouldn’t have had that opportunity without the MESA program.
This experience was not only about winning a prize but also about the incredible mentors I had along the way. One mentor who made a significant impact on me was Mr. Parker Britton, my science teacher. In 2023, he was awarded MESA Teacher of the Year, and it was so well deserved. He taught me not only science but also life lessons, and I could always rely on him for guidance. Mr. Britton became a mentor I could confide in, and he played a crucial role in shaping my growth.
Another person who has been an amazing mentor is Sarah Halsted, who I met after receiving my $1000 prize. Sarah offered me a spot on the Spokane MESA Advisory Board as a Student Representative, which opened up an entirely new level of involvement for me. Being part of the board has been incredibly inspiring. It has given me the opportunity to share my voice and represent other students in the program, and it’s something I’ll always be grateful for.
Discovering new passions
One of the moments that had the greatest impact on me was during a field trip to Whitworth University in my sophomore year. The campus was only 15 minutes away from my high school, but the experience was life-changing. We toured the campus, and later, we visited a Biochemistry lab, where Biochemistry majors ran the session instead of professors. I loved everything about the lab—the hands-on experience, the research, and even the moments when things didn’t go as planned. It was all so intriguing to me.
Before this field trip, I was determined to go to nursing school, but after experiencing Biochemistry, I started to rethink my future. I realized that I could see myself working in a lab, possibly researching a cure for cancer. That day opened my eyes to the possibilities within Biochemistry, and I started imagining a future in science that I had never considered before. My ultimate goal is to do something that I truly enjoy, and I hope to make a difference by helping others along the way. Cancer has affected my family deeply, and I feel strongly about finding ways to fight this disease. If it wasn’t for that field trip, I may never have discovered my passion for Biochemistry, and it’s all thanks to MESA that I now have a new path to follow.
MESA: A foundation for growth
Without MESA, I wouldn’t be where I am today. The program has opened doors, connected me with amazing mentors, and encouraged me to pursue my passions. MESA has given me the tools to think creatively, tackle challenges, and dream bigger about my future. I look forward to the endless possibilities ahead as I continue to explore the world of science, and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunities MESA has provided.
Noe Ortega Mejia
A passion for STEM: Shaping the future
Growing up, I was always captivated by Legos and computers. My natural affinity for hands-on projects and problem-solving helped me excel in STEM classes throughout middle and high school.
One pivotal experience was participating in a summer program focused on electrical and computer engineering. Although the program was held online during the pandemic, it left a lasting impact on me. The lessons I learned and the skills I developed confirmed my desire to be part of the transformative force that is shaping our future. STEM fields are at the heart of solving some of the world’s most critical challenges—from developing groundbreaking medical treatments to creating sustainable energy sources. I knew that I wanted to contribute to these efforts and ensure that this progress benefits humanity in a meaningful way.
Breaking barriers: A vision for inclusivity
As I dove deeper into the world of STEM, I became increasingly aware of how underrepresented certain communities are in these fields. As a member of the Latino community, I realized that my journey could represent something bigger. The world of STEM is often dominated by those from privileged backgrounds, and I wanted to make sure that all races and ethnicities have an opportunity to contribute to global progress.
My goal is to not only excel in my own STEM career but also to empower young people from diverse backgrounds to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles society places in their path. By representing Mexico, the United States, and the Latino community, I hope to inspire students who may feel excluded from these fields. I want them to see that they, too, can be part of this evolution and make their own impact in the world of STEM.
Building on skills: Ready to contribute
My background in computer science, programming languages, and hands-on manufacturing has equipped me with a solid foundation for a career in engineering. I plan to pursue a degree in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, where I hope to deepen my understanding and contribute to innovations in technology. I am particularly passionate about the potential of AI and machine learning to address complex global challenges, such as predicting natural disasters or improving medical diagnoses.
While technical skills are essential, I also understand the importance of collaboration in STEM. Interdisciplinary work is key to solving the world’s most complex problems, and I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate with experts across different fields to create solutions that can revolutionize industries and improve lives.
The Path Ahead: Making a Positive Impact
As I continue my education and career in STEM, I am driven by a singular purpose: to make a positive impact on the world. I believe that technology can be a powerful tool for change, and I am committed to using my skills to contribute to a better future. My journey isn’t just about mastering technical skills—it’s about using those skills to solve real-world problems, empower underrepresented communities, and ensure that the benefits of progress reach all corners of the globe.
STEM holds limitless potential, and I am eager to be part of this exciting field, working alongside others to make the world a better place.
Itzak Martinez Chavez
In my first year of MESA, I was assigned to a project that would not only challenge me but also spark a deep personal transformation. My partner and I were tasked with creating a prosthetic arm for a young girl who had lost her arm and dreamed of playing the violin. Coming from a world of Zoom learning to face-to-face interactions, there was an awkward tension as we navigated new material and worked with our instructors and peers. The challenges felt daunting—but this project pushed me out of my comfort zone in ways I hadn’t expected.
Overcoming obstacles with teamwork and resilience
Working together to solve problems with my partner, we learned how to communicate better and lead effectively, even when we disagreed. At first, our team dynamics weren’t smooth. We encountered friction over decisions, but we soon realized that we needed a better approach to resolve conflicts. By tag teaming specific leadership tasks, we were able to work collaboratively, blend our ideas, and achieve something meaningful—building a prosthetic arm that could help our client fulfill her dream of playing the violin. This experience taught me more than just technical skills; it taught me the value of leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. It reminded me that, even in challenging times like the aftermath of the pandemic, we can rise above obstacles and accomplish great things.
The impact of compassion
That lesson of resilience stayed with me as I continued my journey. I had always known that I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare, but it wasn’t until my grandmother was diagnosed with cancer that I found my true calling. I watched her battle through countless treatments and doctor visits, but it was the nurses who made the biggest impact on her. My grandma, who spoke only Spanish, would light up every time a Hispanic nurse walked into her room. Their care wasn’t just medical—it was emotional. They brought a sense of comfort and confidence that went beyond the technical aspects of their job. My grandma would always say that, although the surgeons checked on her, the nurses made her feel at ease in a way no one else could.
Witnessing this level of care sparked something in me. I realized I wanted to be the person who could bring that same level of comfort to others, especially those in my community. I became determined to become an ER nurse and serve ethnic minority communities with culturally sensitive and compassionate care. It wasn’t just about providing medical treatment—it was about building trust and offering comfort when people needed it most.
Academic success and community involvement
Throughout high school, I’ve worked tirelessly to pursue my dreams. I ranked in the top 100 students of my senior class, secured an internship, and even managed to balance college courses with my high school workload. I also earned my CNA license through an NAC course, allowing me to work in my community while pursuing my degree. Outside of academics, I volunteered at a local STEM summer camp, where I helped inspire youth to explore STEM fields by bringing in guest speakers who worked in various industries. This experience not only strengthened my passion for STEM but also deepened my commitment to making a positive impact in my community.
Looking back, it’s clear that every step of this journey, from my MESA project to my grandmother’s experience with cancer, has shaped my desire to heal, lead, and serve others.
Daniel Marcus Uhm
Entering high school, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in STEM, but I wasn’t sure how to get started. That’s when I found the MESA program and it quickly became the most meaningful part of my high school experience. It wasn’t just about learning new scientific concepts—it was about being part of a community of like-minded students who shared my curiosity and passion for solving real-world problems.
Finding my place in STEM
The MESA lunchtime club was where it all began for me. It was a space where I could meet new people, including upperclassmen who were interested in the same things I was. During my first year, I learned a lot from the MESA officers, especially about how to approach a project and apply what I was learning in class to solve practical problems. One of the first projects I worked on was the annual popsicle stick competition.
Turning ideas into action
As I progressed through high school, MESA helped me apply my growing knowledge to bigger challenges. One of the most impactful experiences was when my team and I worked on a project for MESA Day, where we designed an air monitoring and filtration system for families living near superfund sites. Seeing how our work could potentially improve the quality of life for people in vulnerable communities made me realize the true power of STEM: not just to understand the world, but to change it for the better.
Another important project I was involved in was the Conrad Challenge, where my team designed a battery-powered COVID-19 vaccine cooling system for rural communities. It felt amazing to know that our innovation could directly help people in need, and being named “Conrad Innovators” for our work was a huge honor.
Experiencing STEM in the real world
MESA showed me how STEM can address global challenges. During a service trip with the University of Washington’s Clean Energy Institute, I helped install solar panels in rural Guatemalan villages. Working with UW students, I witnessed how problem-solving in STEM could overcome barriers like limited access to technology and difficult transportation. This experience inspired me to continue using STEM to support underserved communities.
Looking toward the future
Through my work with MESA and my hands-on experiences, I’ve realized that my passion for STEM goes beyond just understanding how the world works. It’s about using that knowledge to solve problems that improve people’s lives, particularly those in underserved communities. I’m grateful for the opportunities MESA has given me and how it has shaped my journey. I know that with the right support and community, STEM can truly be a tool for change.
Albert Albanes, Seattle MESA Teacher
I truly appreciate all the in-class lessons that MESA provides for our students. The opportunity to team up with a MESA educator and collaborate on the best ways to teach STEM has been incredibly impactful and beneficial for our class. It also offers our students a valuable model of teaching as a communal effort, showing them that it’s not just about one person leading, but about collaboration.
One of my favorite memories is our field trips to the University of Washington. It’s always amazing to see our students’ eyes light up as they explore the buildings and take in the experiences, especially since many of them are first-generation students. These trips make a lasting impression and open their eyes to possibilities they may have never considered before.
MESA has also had a significant impact on my own teaching. It’s opened my eyes to the importance of incorporating STEM in my classroom, especially as I work with Latinx students—many of whom are first-generation immigrants with limited exposure to STEM opportunities and career paths.
My advice to students would be to immerse themselves in as many hands-on STEM opportunities as possible and to have fun with it. Exploring STEM can lead to surprising discoveries, whether it’s a new interest or a deeper passion for something you already love.
I’m incredibly grateful for MESA’s presence in our classes and for the connection it creates with our students. The long-term partnership has truly made a significant impact on their educational journey.