Post IRES Spain Trip

Well here is just a quick update about how life is going post of the IRES Spain Trip.

First things first, I absolutely miss Spain and the wonderful staff we met at UPV. It was a great and exciting experience that I will cherish forever.

Once I returned to the states, I immediately jumped into studying for the Fundamentals of Engineering exam (FE)...one of the longest exams an engineering student has to take in his/hers engineering career. Fourteen days of nothing but studying, working, and my face buried in a book. Not fun at all. At the end though, it all paid off. I took the exam in early August and passed it! I recently just applied for my EIT application and hope to receive it in the near future.

My last semester of my undergraduate soon started a few weeks after taking the FE, and boy did it feel amazing. Most of my time was spent working on our senior project but overall it went well. Participating in the IRES program helped by having effective communication between the project director and I and taking the initiative whenever the time called for it. We were given a commercial land development project.

Senior Project Team: I couldn't have asked for a better team to work with.

Graduation was a blast!  I was very proud of myself and excited to start a whole new chapter of my life. I was able to take a few weeks off after graduation to catch my breath and just relax. I went to Mexico to visit family and to San Antonio, Texas for a small vacation.

I plan to go for my masters at UTA in the fall semester of this year. I'm either going for a masters in transportation engineering or getting an MBA. I'm still deciding. I am however enrolled in the fast track program and technically already in graduate school. Since I applied for the fast track program I already have two classes counted towards my masters, which is nice.

          

If I haven't mentioned it before, I have been interning at Baird, Hampton, & Brown, Inc. as a civil engineering intern. I am proud to say that I accepted and offer for a full time position there and started this past Monday. They provide a variety of services in mechanical, electrical, civil engineering, and surveying but I work in the civil engineering department. I currently work under other engineers doing land development and trying to gain as much experience as I can. I like what I do and love the company and the people there, which makes it even better.

I feel like the IRES program has helped me become a better student, professional, and person. It has opened my eyes about the different issues going on around the world and to remember to take consideration of the environment as a whole.

Well...that's about it for now. 

Til' next time. Hasta luego!

Outcome

The time has finally come. Home. This is our last week in Europe. We are preparing ourselves to give our final presentations and parting ways with all of our mentors and friends at the University. I still remember going to the IRES workshop back in the states and thinking "Wow, I'm about to go to Spain for six weeks." Now, I'm thinking about last minute adventures and packing.

There are many things that I've learned during the time I spent here that will help me both professionally and personally. First and foremost, do laundry. I never had to do laundry before, so when I arrived I had to learn. Seriously though, living on my own and with roommates I have never met before. Also having to cook for almost all my meals and cleaning the apartment. The subway/tram system is another big thing that I learned this summer. The first week here I was totally lost, and my whole group can back that up. But after using it constantly, especially when visiting other cities, I became familiar with it. Another big thing is just getting thrown into a foreign country and learning about other people's cultural overall. I definitely learned to enjoy life more and the company of friends. Always enjoy the little things in life and not work yourself to death. 

Professionally speaking, I learned more about a research setting and how it goes; simply by observing other lab technicians and grad students. I got exposed to a closer interaction between mentor/professor and student, even though my mentor couldn't be there as much due to a personal issue. This will help improve my communication skills when talking to a professor or professional about any concern I might have. I will be able to get the information across to them. Finally, I learned about my project itself. I learned about seismic concepts on reinforced concrete frames-the pushover analysis-and how masonry infill walls can be used as struts (a component that helps resist longitudinal compression in a structure).

I have already completed four years of Civil Engineering school and plan on graduating this coming up December. So excited! I also have an internship with Baird, Hampton & Brown, Inc. which is a Civil Engineering firm that provides many services but specializes in land development. In my case, I mostly do land development work or do research for a given project. I am learning however a lot along the way, which will make me more useful in later projects. I also am captain of the Steel Bridge Team for the ASCE UTA student chapter. I lead a team to design, fabricate, and construct to compete with other schools. Combining all these things I believe have impacted my ability to perform in my project. As I said before, our professor wasn't able to there as much as he wanted, so I was on my own for a while. However, because of my past experience, I was able to guide myself and give myself motivation into researching my project and running models in software. That way when I met with my mentor, I had something to over with him. I also took some classes prior to this study abroad program that had some similar concepts related to my project. Classes like reinforced concrete design, structural steel design and structural analysis. These classes helped me better understand the overall objective of my project. Overall, my prior educational experience helped me achieve my project goals and become successful in moving with the project even with the given circumstances. 

One big challenge that I encountered and that was least expected, is the lack of mentor and student interaction. Of course, my mentor had a severe personal issue to attend to, so it wasn't his fault. It was no one's fault really. On the other hand, I was left alone for a while trying to do research on my project and trying to comprehend everything I was doing. Whenever we did meet with my mentor however, he answered all of my questions, guided me to the right path and made me feel more confident in my work. I did expect to be in a more research lab setting, for example actually working in a lab, testing samples and taking data. Instead, it has been more of just doing research online, on databases, creating and running models on SAP2000 (structural software), and learning from my mentor. Even though this was great and I still learned a lot, working in an actual lab would have been nice.

In conclusion, this study abroad experience has been great and I couldn't be happier. I have learned not only about my field through my mentor and research but also about life itself. To see ow other people from a different culture live their everyday lives and how some practice in the field of Civil Engineering. I'm excited to return the UTA and share all of my experiences to my peers and professors.

Til' next time. Hasta luego!

Social Identity

Being in Spain for four weeks has definitely given me time to explore and learn the Spanish culture. Before this study abroad program, I never really had an idea of how the culture was here in Europe let alone the Spanish culture. The only thing that gave me the slightest idea of this culture was what the cinema industry portrayed of it. Growing up as a Mexican-American, I tended to mix the Latin and Spanish culture when reality, they are very different. I was exposed to some public transportation when in Mexico, like riding buses, but never to the extent to that of Spain. My first time ever riding a subway/train was here in Valencia and let me tell you, it was an experience. Most people in Spain rely on public transportation to get them from place to place or they just walk. Coming from Texas or Mexico, this was one of the biggest differences.

I come from a place where everyone thinks everything is bigger and better. That is Texas. Everyone drives from place to place; grill steaks, and/or eats at a Whataburger at any time of the day. I didn't have an expectation to the day-to-day life here in Spain but boy is it different than the U.S. As I mentioned before, the work schedule is different. They have two food breaks; one at 10:30 am and another from 2-4 pm; then people usually get off from work at 7 pm. During the 2-4 period, almost every store is closed and during the 4-7 period, almost every restaurant is closed. So you could already imagine when we got out of the science museum at 4 pm, starving. We literally had walk around for an hour until we found a restaurant called "The Good Burger", which wasn't even a traditional Spanish restaurant. I guess it is for people like us that forget Spain's general day schedule. 

One thing that people from back home told me about Spain that was true was that there was a lot of beautiful buildings and rich history. Visiting Madrid, Alicante, and even here in Valencia, the architecture is just unbelievable and the sights are just breathtaking. We visited quite a few museums which displayed artifacts and paintings about Spain's history.

Now that I've been here for a while, I can honestly say that people here in Spain are festive, pretty laid back, and live life to the fullest. I believe this is the biggest difference between Spain and the U.S. Before coming to Spain, I was always busy doing something or stressing about school or always on the move. I never had the time take siestas! Here in Valencia however, I observed that people just go with the flow. They never seemed stressed or in a hurry, not even the students in the University! Although I only worked in the mornings, my biggest worry each day is what I am going to do for the rest of day. I was so use to having something to do each day that this caught me off guard... and I love it! I actually have time to take siestas! You can say most people here look like they are happy with what have (even with the economic crisis going on) and never worry themselves about having it all. Another big cultural difference here is restaurants. Back in the U.S, usually the waiter is trying to be extra nice in order to get a big tip, always checking up on you and making sure you have a great meal. Not here in Spain. The waiters are quite pushy and always rush you into ordering. They hardly never come back to ask you if you want more. Once they bring the food, they don't come back until they see you are all done. One good though is that they give you your space and time to talk and have a good time. They don't rush into giving you your check. 

All in all, I believe people's attitude here in Valencia, Spain is conservative and laid back. They certainly have fun and take sociability very seriously but never seem to be in a hurry. I'm dearly grateful to be a part of this study abroad experience and excited to bring some of the Spanish culture back with me. It has been a great experience being thrown into a totally different culture and working with someone who has the same passion as you do. I'm sure the skills I learned her will help me in the future, whether I work in the U.S. or in any other country.

Til' next time. Hasta luego!

Career Aspirations!

Coming to Spain has opened up a whole new world for me. There are a bunch of beautiful sights to see, food to eat, and people to meet. Studying civil engineering back in the states is incredible and I've learned a lot but Spain is just unbelievable. The way their roads, buildings, and other infrastructure is built differently than in the states. Their roads are much narrower because of the tram (train) and crosswalks are further away from the actual intersection. One of the biggest differences are the roundabouts. It makes traffic run more smoothly in a more safer and efficient way. Almost every building here has flats (apartments) on the upper floors and restaurants, bars, stores on the bottom floors. They optimize their space very well and make trips for people much shorter. It is safe to say that the exposure to this study abroad experience has expanded my passion for civil engineering. It has filled my mind with bright ideas and deigns for buildings, roads, bridges, etc.

I plan to use this international experience for preparation on my future design classes and for my current job in land development. This experience has given me the chance to practice my technical, leadership, and communication skills with people from a completely different culture. The things I see, for instance the roundabouts, compact buildings, abundance of walk/bike paths, can help me with future projects that require a special or complicated design. I will have the greater advantage since I was exposed to it constantly in Valencia. As to my long term career goal in owning my own firm or being a principal, this experience has helped me realized that I can make it on my own, that nothing can stop me from achieving my goal. We were by ourselves when we first arrived but eventually found our way. We come from a different culture and environment but somehow manage to communicate with our mentors and find answers to the many questions that we have. I believe that this is a great asset to have when wanting to become a boss. You can't be afraid to be out of your comfort zone. You have to be able to go out and get what is yours. And let me tell you, Spain is definitely out of my comfort zone.

This study abroad experience has impacted my future career objectives in the way that it makes me see the bigger picture. First thing first, I have to graduate. I plan to graduate this coming December and  I couldn't be more excited. I've always planned on getting my Masters immediately after and by the looks of this study abroad experience, it is not a bad idea. It has allowed me to be more open-minded. Since Spain is an old country, they work with a lot of ancient infrastructure. Either trying to preserve it or work around it. Something that the U.S. hasn't quite come across with. Returning with this mindset and broad set of skills will only help me get ahead of the game and become more successful in any job that I come across with.

Til' next time. Hasta Luego!!

The Spanish Culture

I'm in Spain......Spain! I still can't believe it sometimes. I catch myself some mornings thinking...wow, I'm literally waking up in Spain; this is not a dream. Being as this is my first time ever visiting Europe, of course I was a bit scared but also very excited. Who knew what was coming my way.

Shockingly, the culture in Spain is a lot more different than what I expected and more different than the Mexican-American culture that I'm use to. For instance, Spanish is my first language and I knew that they talk a bit different but never made a big deal about it....until now. Although knowing that Español, speaking with people in Spain is always an adventure. Some talk really fast or even another dialect (Valenciano-local language). On the bright side, I have two more people (Eric and Jose) to help out and translate any mumbo jumbo for the rest of group.

The way people interact with each other and live is quite different than back in the U.S. People in Spain tend to be more relax and sociable.  They really take pride in sitting down and communicating with one another about life, work, school, etc. Everyone is ether walking to their destination or taking some sort of public transportation. People are friendly and actually greet you even if you are total strangers and don;t speak the same language. One very unique thing that is completely different is their work schedule. Basically, this is how it goes: 8 am to about ten thirty you work, then you take about a forty-five to an hour coffee break called almuerzo (equivalent to brunch), then work until 2 pm; and that is when you take lunch. Lunch is a very big deal here and lasts about a couple of hours. Lunch is their biggest meal of the day and the time where people interact with each other. After lunch, most people take a siesta (nap) then return to work for a few more hours. I'm still getting use to the work schedule but from my experience, I feel like this schedule reduces stress and lets you enjoy life. It certainly has for me.

Let me tell you, the sites here, are spectacular! Just walking down the street from our flat and towards the beach you see beautiful graffiti everywhere (they actually encourage it) and amazing architecture. The beach is just beautiful and all of the cathedrals, museums, and historic monuments/buildings are breathtaking. They are a site to see. I can literally stay at the beach or in the city center just observing the different views and structures that surround me. There were some sights though that really caught me off guard. Topless women at the beach. Every one, no matter what the age or gender, smokes. Everyone seems to own a well-trained dog. Bars that are opened right around the corner of a church. You just don't see this in Texas.

So far, I really love the culture here in Spain. The work schedule seems to be one of my favorite aspects. It gives you more time to do what you want, like go to the beach. Some challenges I have though is trying to get use to the smell of dog droppings all along the streets. Since almost everyone owns a dog and walks them daily, the dirty area on the sidewalk is filled with dog droppings; but the one thing that I absolutely dislike is the smoking. Seriously. EVERYONE smokes. Anyone from the age of thirteen and above. I've been in Valencia for two weeks now and it still shocks me when about 80% of the people that I pass is smoking. Other than the smoking, I really love the culture here in Valencia. I love how social people are here and the many different shops that keep the city running. The locals are Valencia's identity. Without them the city is a hollow shell.

Til' next time. Hasta Luego!!

Civil Engineering

Why Civil Engineering?

I was one of those kids that always played with legos and always wanted to do hands on projects in order to see it grow from ground up. Since I was a child, I guess I always knew deep inside that I wanted to pursue something in the construction/engineering field but didn't even know what engineers did until I researched it during my senior year in high school. I actually was planning on going into Architecture because of my passion of drawing and creativity but did a last minute adjustment. I was good in applied math and loved it, so close relatives and friends recommended me to go into engineering since it requires both. This is when I started my research on the different kinds of engineering fields and what exactly each one did. After much hard thinking, I landed on civil engineering. Civil engineers design, construct, and maintain public infrastructure to help improve civilization. Each day, new conflicts arise that affect the public and it is up to civil engineers to ensure that these conflicts are dealt with as economically and ethically as possible. On the other hand, civil engineers continue to come up with new and innovative solutions to help solve these issues before they become a problem. Civil engineering is what keeps our society going. 

I started pursuing my civil engineering degree at UTA on the fall semester of 2012 and haven't regretted a single bit of it. Knowing that I will be apart of a globalization field to help solve everyday problems and making everyday life more efficient gives me a sense of purpose in life. In other words, I chose to major in civil engineering because I like math, love helping people, and enjoy seeing something go from nothing to something.

Motivation

Walking down anywhere in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex area and now in Valencia, you see beautiful rising buildings and bridges and I couldn't help but to think what the process it went through in order for it to be built at its exact location. That it was once an idea on paper and now transformed into this amazing infrastructure that will benefit all. This fascinated me and ultimately what motivated me into choosing civil engineering and specializing in structures. I wanted to be apart of that process and contribute to the bigger picture which is making a better and more efficient future. I also joined the Steel Bridge team through the American Society of Civil Engineers (UTA Chapter) and I would say this was a huge factor in reassuring myself that I wanted to specialize in structures.  In the steel bridge team we designed and constructed a steel bridge from scratch in a certain time frame for competition against other universities. This experience has shown me in a small scale how a structural project goes, how to deal with the many problems that arose, and how to work as a team with different backgrounds to achieve a common goal. The picture above shows my construction team having fun at the steel bridge competition this passed April and the picture below shows our final bridge we built.

My Contribution to Civil Engineering

I expect to bring my academic knowledge as well as my personal experience into the profession to make infrastructure better for the public. Being in Spain, I've noticed that they are more conservative and greener than in the United States. Bringing back some of Spain's ideas can possibly improve the civil engineering field in the United States by generating better and greener solutions to the many pollution and energy source issues we have. This knowledge shouldn't just be shared with United States but also with the whole world. Being apart of this abroad research program will hopefully give me an idea on how to work together with a different culture to achieve better solutions that will benefit the whole world. This knowledge will able me to contribute the different ideas I've learned for a better future no matter where I go.

My Goals

Being a civil engineer will help me not only reach my professional goals but also my professional goals. You'll acquire certain skills when going through civil engineering such as thinking critically and creatively, perseverance, completing challenging tasks in a certain time frame, and time management skills. These skills will help me reach my long term personal goal of becoming a comedian and short term goal of pursuing carpentry. I love wood working and acting silly, making people laugh. My long term professional goal is to acquire my professional license and open up an engineering firm with a few friends. For my short goals, I hope to pass my fundamental exam and gain as much knowledge from my peers and mentors on each project that I do. As I said before, it amazes me how a bridge or building starts from an empty lot with dirt into this majestic masterpiece. To me this is art. Bottom line is, civil engineering has made me learn certain valuable skills that will help me reach any goal I have. 

I never would of thought in all my life I would be in Spain doing research in the field that I feel so passionate about. Exploring Spain has only spiked my interest in civil engineering. The two pictures above from the huge park that surrounds the center of Valencia (The Turia Riverbed Park) and aesthetically pleasing bridge crossing the park. This park was once a river. There was a horrible flood that flooded the city so they decided to divert the river somewhere else and convert it into a park. It was amazing hearing this story and how Valencia solved a major problem while still preserving the nature and history around it. It is interesting also the culture and the way they do things here in Spain. Our mentors are helping us out getting use to the customs here and the work day schedule. All in all, I'm ecstatic to be here and to learn the rich culture of Spain!!! Til' next time. Hasta luego!!