Where are they now?

NOW:

Marine Technician, Oregon State University |
Co-Chair, UNOLS Maintaining an Environment of Respect Aboard Ships (MERAS) Committee
“Oregon State University is part of the NSF Academic Research Fleet. Our Marine Technician Group is involved in high standards of oceanographic technology and best practices, and we are preparing for our new research vessel, which is currently being built. Marine Technicians are troubleshooters, supporting all aspects of science missions on research vessels. They are the go-between for visiting scientists and the ship's crew and are out on deck supervising deployment and retrieval of scientific equipment as well as serving as the IT and network specialists, electronics technicians, machinists​​ and fabricators. We're there to support the objectives of diverse science missions and ensure they are a success."

Looking Back:
“The biggest skill set I received at Cal Maritime was methodical problem solving: to be able to troubleshoot and work a problem independently. I use that every day out at sea because I constantly encounter new equipment or systems failures in a dynamic environment. I don't find problems insurmountable; I find them interesting. Going through an engineering and oceanography program that encouraged critical thinking and offered hands-on learning and leadership really set me up for success."

NOW:

Communications Director at California State Senate |​ Senator Monique Limón

“I never thought I would be working in the capitol, especially as a DACA recipient. I walk the halls of the capitol, crafting legislation for people that can become law and I can't even vote. That's very powerful to me. And being able to tell that to people who are also DACA recipients who may be struggling in school is very special.

“I don't see the worlds of education and communication as being separate. I always tell people you can have the best policy in the world and change the lives of many, but if you don't know how to communicate that effectively, no one's going to listen to you. I'm really passionate about combining those worlds and educating people about the power of government and that their voices matter."

Looking Back:
“Education changed my life. It's not just about having that degree and putting it on your résumé; you get to understand how the world works and apply those skills to real life. I learned so much theory, but if you don't apply it to your every day, then you don't really see how great it is to connect both worlds. Education gave me a lot of confidence, a lot of opportunities and a sense of belonging. I'm able to feel comfortable speaking about things I'm passionate about and know how to use data to back up my claims. It gave me an opportunity to succeed, which is exactly what my parents immigrated here for."