Hey, my name is Mariana Sorroza. I am a junior double-majoring in Mechanical Engineering and International and Global Studies. I am also pursuing minors in Leadership Studies and Mathematics. Some of my hobbies include knitting, crocheting, sewing, playing soccer, running cross country, learning new things and acquiring skills such as cooking, golfing, and playing the piano. I also love to travel and to spend time with my family, friends, and two adorable doggies! Creating happy memories with my loved ones is my favorite thing in the world.

I grew up in South Florida and graduated in June of 2020 from Atlantic Technical College and Technical High School, in Coconut Creek, Florida. I moved to Central Florida to study at the University of Central Florida (UCF) due to the diverse programs and unique opportunities offered at UCF. Some of my favorite classes at UCF have been Engineering Analysis Statics, Ethical Issues in the 21^st Century, Psychology of Women, and Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Statics is one of the first courses I took for Mechanical Engineering and I loved the way Dr. Ricardo Zaurin taught it, getting help from my dad to truly understand the concepts with real-life applications, and the class overall. I took the other three courses I mentioned as part of my Leadership Studies Minor and enjoyed what I learned very much. Through my studies, I get to learn both how mechanical systems, international systems, and people operate and I enjoy this very much; it is a true blessing.

My desire to get involved with the STEM Ambassador Program comes from enjoying teaching and my strong belief that knowing how to effectively communicate technical information with any and all audiences can really change the world in positive ways. I hope to contribute shared knowledge I have on a variety of STEM concepts with K-12 students for the purpose of knowledge is to share it with others and to use it to do good in this world. I want to help spark younger students interests in STEM and be a representative for women and Hispanics in STEM fields.

Some words of wisdom for future STEM students are that when classes get rough, to remember that they are tough. I also encourage them to seek help; my success is partially due to my hard work and passion, but also due to the support from my loved ones, love from my parents, to faculty and staff at UCF and previous schools that have helped me, and to God and Virgin Marry. It takes courage to ask for help, so do not be afraid to ask for help throughout your STEM career. It is important for them to take care of themselves and balance family and friend time and school. Remember that all things work for good. Believe in yourself, I believe in you. You got this!