Hey there, my name is Hannah Fitts. I am a dual major studying Civil Engineering and Construction Engineering, and this is my fourth year at UCF. As a freshman I did not know anyone since I was an out of state student. My father was a marine so my family moved a lot when I was younger– but, I was born in West Palm Beach, Florida, so I guess you can say I am a Floridian just like many of you! I graduated from Lafayette High School in Wildwood, Missouri, in 2022 and started my academic journey at UCF the following semester. One of my favorite classes, which just so happens to also be one of the hardest classes I’ve taken, was Calculus 2. Historically, this is a challenging course for many students so my professor, Dr. Islas always made time for me and other students when it came to going over extra material, office hour studies, and one-on-ones. Dr. Islas always encouraged each of us and cared a lot about his students’ success! 

I joined the WiSTEM program because I wanted to connect with other women in STEM and create a supportive community where we could share experiences, knowledge, and empower one another. These programs provide an amazing opportunity to meet like-minded individuals who share similar passions and goals. I’m excited to be part of a network where we can challenge each other to grow and succeed while also finding opportunities for leadership, mentorship, and collaboration.  

My expectation for the program is to gain valuable insights, develop new skills, and form lasting relationships with other women in STEM. As a mentor, my primary expectation is to foster a supportive and inclusive environment where my mentees feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and growing both personally and professionally. Engineering can be a challenging field, but I believe that with the right guidance, encouragement, and resources, my mentees can thrive.  

Outside of my studies, I love to immerse myself in activities that help me recharge and explore my creative side. Reading is one of my favorite ways to relax– I enjoy getting lost in books that expand my perspective and take me to new worlds. Art is a big passion of mine, too. Whether I am trying out new creative projects or working on DIY craft projects, creating something from scratch gives me a sense of accomplishment.  

Words of wisdom: To all students navigating their way through a STEM major, I’d say: Stay curious and persistent. There will be tough moments, but don’t give up. Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities and remember that no one has it all figured out. Keep reaching out for help when you need it and seek out people who inspire and challenge you. It’s okay to not have all the answers yet, but never stop asking questions. And most importantly, always trust in your ability to succeed.