Citizenship Experience 

Milestone 2, Citizenship, holds profound significance in my personal growth and learning journey during this semester. In this essay, I will reflect on the most valuable event I attended this semester—the "professional BBQ" hosted by the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE). This event provided me with invaluable insights, shaped my career aspirations, and expanded my horizons. This event brought together recruiters from prestigious companies like Blue Origin, ULA, Google, Disney, Intel, and many others. What made this event exceptionally valuable was its relaxed atmosphere, which facilitated genuine conversations between students and recruiters. During the event, I took the opportunity to engage in discussions with these industry professionals. I was eager to learn about various aspects of their organizations, such as company culture, the skills they highly value in engineering and physics majors, and the qualities they seek in successful candidates.

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One recurring piece of wisdom from the recruiters was the immense value of Capstone projects. They emphasized how these real-world applications of our skills go beyond textbook learning, providing valuable teamwork experience and refining our technical abilities. Hearing their perspectives shed light on the crucial role Capstone projects play in shaping our resumes and making us more attractive candidates in the competitive job market.

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The impact of the "professional BBQ" event extended far beyond that evening. It has inspired me to acquire new skills and to broaden my networking abilities. This experience reinforced the significance of active citizenship and community engagement. I'm inspired to give back by sharing my insights and experiences with others who may embark on similar journeys. This sense of responsibility aligns with the values instilled in me as a student and a citizen, emphasizing the importance of not only personal success but also the success and growth of our academic community.

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In conclusion, the event has been a turning point in my academic and career journey. This milestone has showcased the power of community engagement and networking, reinforcing my commitment to active citizenship and the pursuit of my dreams. With newfound determination, I am excited to take on the challenges that lie ahead on my path to a fulfilling and successful career.