Hi! My name is Mia Chang and I am currently pursuing a major in Mechanical Engineering and a minor in Intelligent Robotics Systems. I am extremely excited to be going into my second year at UCF! I graduated from Saint Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. My favorite class so far has been Engineering Statics. This is the first class that required me to complete hands-on assignments where I could apply advanced math skills in real time! This class makes me feel like I am truly on my way to becoming an engineer and has given me eye opening opportunities to bring engineering concepts to life. My favorite professor so far has been a graduate student that was teaching the EXCEL Calculus II class. Mr. Nick Arustamyan was thorough, engaging, and very approachable. He made students feel comfortable engaging with one another and encouraged collaboration, which allowed many of us to become friends. The reason why I wanted to get involved in the GEMS program was because I wanted to be part of a group that innovates together and motivates its members to achieve their full potential. I am a firm believer in the idea that in order to succeed, we must surround ourselves with others who also want to succeed. I have found this to be true in my prior experiences and definitely in the GEMS program. In addition, GEMS gives its members support and the opportunity to learn different perspectives in STEM fields. Some advice I would give to incoming STEM students is to not be afraid to get involved! Joining extracurriculars has allowed me to meet so many new people and others who share my interests. Most importantly, extracurriculars give us the chance to work on amazing projects and to apply what we have learned in the classroom.  Clubs and other organizations are also a great way to find out what you may want to do professionally and what career path is best for you. Lastly, some things I like to do away from academics include playing intramurals, working out, baking, and going to theme parks!