Hi! My name is Sienna Porter, and I’m a sophomore from Jacksonville majoring in Actuarial Science in the Burnett Honors College. I’m currently preparing for Exam P and Exam FM as I work toward my goal of becoming an actuary.

At UCF, my favorite classes have been calculus and statistical theory. In these subjects, I really appreciate Dr. Roy Choudhury and Professor Nathaniel Simone for their patience and encouragement as they help uniquely teach tough concepts so that they feel more intuitive. I want to create a similar environment for prospective students through the STEM ambassador program!

My experiences mentoring MathCounts students and leading STEM clubs in high school have shown me how powerful reinforcement can be. What drew me to the ambassador program specifically was the chance to reach students who may not see themselves as “STEM people” yet. I want to help create welcoming spaces where students feel comfortable asking questions, exploring new topics, and discovering what they’re capable of. As an ambassador, I hope to contribute enthusiasm and a supportive voice for future Knights considering STEM.

My advice for future STEM students is to not be intimidated by challenging classes. Lean into them, stay curious, and surround yourself with people who want to grow alongside you. STEM isn’t about being perfect, but more about being persistent. Ask questions when you feel unsure, celebrate small successes, and remember that growth happens in the moments when you push past your comfort zone. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, support you, and remind you that you’re capable of more than you think.

Outside of academics, I love to travel. Some of my favorite places I’ve visited include Yosemite, Alaska, and Switzerland, where I fell in love with hiking and exploring new cultures. I’m also a big fan of beach days, playing piano, crafting, and going to concerts. Tame Impala with Djo has been the best so far!