Home Country: Uruguay
Program: Civil and Environmental Engineering
University: Universidad de la República
Languages: Spanish, English

My journey from Mendoza, a small town in the department of Florida, Uruguay, to embarking on my professional career has been shaped by personal determination and a deep sense of gratitude. As the first generation in my family to pursue a university education, I carry the desire and responsibility to make my loved ones proud.

After high school, leaving my hometown to pursue higher education was a necessary step. I moved to Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, focusing on Structural Engineering, from the Universidad de la República (UdelaR).

While studying, I obtained a position as an Assistant Teacher at UdelaR, where I taught several senior undergraduate courses and participated in research on Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete (SFRC).

After earning my BS degree, I joined the Ministry of Transportation and Public Works, to work at the bridge department, which provided me with valuable practical experience. In this professional environment, I encountered individuals who exhibited an unwavering commitment to and care for our country's infrastructure.

Since graduating, I have aspired to study and live abroad. With the United States being a pioneer in engineering and technology, I’m grateful to be selected as a Fulbright scholar. I’m committed to bringing back to my country all the knowledge and experience I’ll gain from Rice University and the Houston engineering industry.

As someone deeply interested in advancing my career in civil engineering, the Master of Civil and Environmental Engineering (MCEE) with a focus on Structural Engineering and Resilient Civil Infrastructure truly excites me. This program stands out because it combines academic training with practical skills and develops leadership abilities, which I see as crucial for driving innovation and making a meaningful impact in the industry.

What do you like most about Houston/Rice:

Although I have not yet arrived at Rice, the support from advisors, professors, and future classmates has fostered a tremendous sense of belonging and community in me. Fulbright@Rice has ensured that we feel at home, even though we are not physically there yet.

What do you like most about Fulbright:

During the past few months, the Fulbrighters from my country have become my friends, and I am confident that the same will happen at Rice. I believe that the network built around the program is one of its greatest strengths, along with the opportunity to exchange experiences with people from around the world.

Fun Fact:

I play the guitar and had a punk rock band back home!