Roberto Montiel chose to attend UGA for two main reasons:  marching band and the College of Engineering.  Inspired by his mom, a high school chemistry teacher, he had already completed an associates degree in mechatronics engineering by the time he enrolled at UGA as a first-year student.  He believes his opportunity to be a part of the First-Year Scholars program here at UGA and being the beneficiary of private donor support has contributed to his success, and he hopes to return the favor by being actively engaged with the UGA engineering community in the future.

Why did you choose UGA for your undergrad?

“In high school, I loved performing in the marching band, and one of the best universities in Georgia for continuing this passion for me was UGA.  I experienced this first-hand during UGA JanFest, a music event for high school students.  I also took the time to tour the modern facilities in the Driftmier Engineering Center.  The welcoming staff from the College of Engineering and my experience with the Hugh Hodgson School of Music made a lasting impression that led me to commit to UGA.”

Why did you choose engineering as your major?

“My interest in engineering sparked from a young age, influenced by my mom, who teaches chemistry.  She took me to STEM events at Valdosta State University, where my passion for engineering and problem-solving grew.  During high school, I had the fantastic opportunity to complete an associate’s degree program in mechatronics engineering at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College.  My experience in this program solidified my interest in studying mechanical engineering in college, which continued a passion for engineering that I have had most of my life.”

“I believe the most challenging aspect of being an engineering student is managing time effectively.  Balancing deadlines, studying, involvement in student organizations, career development, activities, friends, family and personal time requires planning and discipline.”

Who or what has been an inspiration to you in your education journey?

“My mom and my aunt, both in the STEM field, have continued to inspire me on my education journey in STEM.  Additionally, my high school band directors were great mentors and motivated me to work hard, building discipline that helped me succeed in my first year of college.”

What do you feel are the most challenging aspects of being an engineering student?  What do you enjoy most about it?

“I believe the most challenging aspect of being an engineering student is managing time effectively.  Balancing deadlines, studying, involvement in student organizations, career development, activities, friends, family and personal time requires planning and discipline.  Despite these challenges, I enjoy the flexibility of creating my schedule, the company of studying with friends, collaboration on projects, and the engaging extracurricular activities at UGA that provide a great break from academics.”

What do you feel are the greatest challenges facing first-year students?

“I think the greatest challenges facing first-year students are based on time management.  Adapting to college life involves active time management to balance academics, extracurriculars, and personal well-being.  It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by newfound freedoms, but establishing a structured routine, setting clear priorities, and staying organized is essential for navigating these challenges.  It is necessary to maintain a healthy balance to keep focus on academics while also enjoying your time in college.”

“I believe programs like the First-Year Scholars and the Engineering Academic Boot Camp were instrumental in my successful adjustment to college life as a first-year student.”

As a participant in the First-Year Scholars program, which is supported by corporate donors to the College of Engineering, how were you impacted by this program?

“The First-Year Scholars program helped me to adapt to life at UGA by working on projects with other students, making great friends, and keeping track of my academic and personal well-being.  I believe programs like the First-Year Scholars and the Engineering Academic Boot Camp were instrumental in my successful adjustment to college life as a first-year student.”

You have received scholarship support while at UGA.  How has this impacted you and your educational journey?

“Receiving scholarship support at UGA has had an immense impact on my journey.  The financial support has significantly aided me and my family in dealing with unexpected challenges, allowing me to concentrate fully on my studies as a full-time student.  I believe the support played a considerable role in my successful first year, contributing to my achievement of being named a presidential scholar for both the fall and spring semesters.”

You are actively involved with engineering clubs, which receive quite a bit of financial support from donors.  How has this involvement benefitted you?

“Being involved with the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) has been incredibly beneficial.  SHPE provided a supportive community that helped me transition smoothly into UGA as a first-year student.  ASME connected me with peers in mechanical engineering, and involvement in both clubs allowed me to further develop my organizational and leadership skills through roles such as Treasurer for SHPE and Event Coordinator for ASME.”

“Receiving private support helped me deeply appreciate the generosity of donors by experiencing first-hand how their contributions can impact students’ lives by easing financial burdens.  This support has motivated a desire to help others achieve their goals through my involvement in the UGA community.”

Has being the recipient of private support affected your view of philanthropy?

“Receiving private support helped me deeply appreciate the generosity of donors by experiencing first-hand how their contributions can impact students’ lives by easing financial burdens.  This support has motivated a desire to help others achieve their goals through my involvement in the UGA community.  This experience has shown me how private support creates a ripple effect of support and success within the community.”

What do you hope to accomplish during your time at UGA?  What do you plan to do when you graduate?

“During my time at UGA, I aim to gain valuable career experience through internships and co-ops and contribute positively to the community.  I plan to leverage my mechanical engineering degree to drive innovation in the industry, focusing on advancements that address real-world challenges and improve technology.”

If you could say one thing to engineering donors, what would it be?

“Thank you so much for your generous support!  Your contributions have a substantial impact on students’ lives, helping us to pursue our dreams and reach our goals.”