Extracurricular Activities:Caribbean Students Association
What career or personal update would you like to give to your fellow Florida Tech Panthers alumni?
I am currently working as a "Product Assurance Specialist" at RAL Space. I transitioned into the space industry after a decade of employment as a Scientist. After graduating Florida Tech, my first job was at the Mayo Clinic. I then went on to work at Elemental Enzymes- which was a great place to work as a new Scientist! Due to changes, I relocated to London, England and was then a frontline worker at the NHS during the Covid-19 pandemic. I worked as a "Senior Scientist" for 3 years at the NHS before deciding to embark on a new journey in the space sector. RAL Space has over 60 years of experience and expertise in space programmes. My first project at RAL Space entails collaborating with multinational space organizations on surface gas pressure and chemical species measurement on the moon!
How did your time at Florida Tech help get you to where you are today?
I think it would have been impossible to be where I am today without Florida Tech's influence. I started in 2014 as a Biomedical Engineering student, but struggled due to having many personal challenges. I was supported by my professors and friends through difficult times and I remember feeling motivated and inspired by them. While at Florida Tech, I made lifelong friends and gained exposure to space professionals- long before starting a career in the industry. Florida Tech had so many opportunities that I am forever grateful to have been a part of.
What is your favorite Florida Tech memory?
My favourite memory was a sunset walk around campus after class. I remember having a tough day and suddenly feeling immense gratitude for the nature and serenity around me. Florida Tech has great facilities and so many opportunities to destress. For example, I loved being able to go to the dining hall and sit with new people everyday and also being able to go to the gym between classes to unwind. I would say my best memories are the little, everyday things about Florida Tech.
Was there a mentor or professor who had a big impact on you personally and/or professionally?
I considered Dr. Nasri Nesnas to be both a mentor and friend. He has a true passion for education and helping his students to succeed. I remember him always being kind, friendly and approachable no matter what. In general, Florida Tech has incredible and caring professors. In November 2016, one semester before I would graduate, I lost both my parents. My professors during that time, such as Dr. Richard Aronson and Dr. David Carroll were exceptionally supportive. I might have given up if I didn't have the insight and guidance of so many people at Florida Tech.
Please share any advice you have for current Florida Tech students.
I would advise not to lose confidence or sell yourself short. The truth is, as a student, you don't know who you will grow into yet. Do not let your failures define you as you will look back at them one day and realize that the challenges you faced were necessary to guide you to your own evolution. Be willing to be a perpetual student of life; rather than a victim of it.
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