![student standing](/sites/default/files/styles/full_image_large/public/2019-04/44249163770_4ef786ba04_o.jpg?h=401cdc2b&itok=2quqM44E)
Academics
From Ecuador to Engineering
Mar 11, 2019
Achieving my dream of engineering my future
I was born and raised in Ecuador. My sister studied in the United States when I was little, and I asked my father once why she was so far from home. He told me that education and the experience a person gets from studying in the U.S. is unique. I wanted to know firsthand what it was like to live and study there, and on that day a dream was born.
I felt nervous to come to North Central because I had to leave my home and my family for a place I had never been and a culture completely different from mine. The same thing that made me nervous, though, also made me curious about this life-changing adventure.
Now I am working with Professor Frank Harwath, professor of engineering, on research focused on producing sustainable, affordable building materials out of waste products. Just in my first year, I feel I am already learning many things that will help me reach my future goals. Right now, I can say that what my father told me is true, and North Central is helping me achieve my dream.
![professor and student researching](/sites/default/files/inline-images/46065188701_b627bd2754_k_0.jpg)
For more information, contact International Student Services and Engagement. This organization supports, advocates and designs experiences for international students from admittance through graduation.