Hello! My name is Melania Carrigan, and I am a Civil Engineering major entering my fourth year at the University of Central Florida. I graduated from Creekside High School in Saint Johns, Florida, in 2023. One of my favorite classes at UCF so far has been Intro to Engineering Lab. I really enjoyed this course because it gave me the opportunity to collaborate with others on a semester-long project and apply what we were learning in a hands-on way. Another highlight of my time at UCF has been ENC 1102 with Professor Emily LaPadura. She made the course feel effortless by building meaningful connections with her students and providing individualized support, which is why she is one of my favorite professors. Being part of the GEMS program has been an incredible experience for me. As engineering is a male-dominated field, it can sometimes be challenging to find other women with similar academic paths and interests. Through GEMS, I was able to connect with like-minded students who shared similar experiences and challenges. One of the most rewarding aspects of the program is that your mentor group often includes students taking the same classes, so you always have familiar faces in your lectures, which makes the experience even more enjoyable and supportive. For incoming EXCEL/COMPASS/STEM students, my advice is to put yourself out there and take advantage of every opportunity to connect with others. Building a strong support system early on can make a huge difference in both your academic success and overall college experience. Outside of school, I love going to the beach, hanging out with friends, and playing pickleball. I believe maintaining a balance between academics and personal life is important, and these activities help me stay energized and motivated.