Share the Dream: My Life, My Focus, My Goal Share the Dream: My Life, My Focus, My Goal: Diaz, Mateo

Share the Dream essay by Mateo Diaz

My life has been all about learning to adjust and adapt to stay strong. I moved schools and homes so many times that I never got to settle down or have that long-term group of friends, truly. The most significant step was moving our whole life from Connecticut to Massachusetts right after tenth grade. But through all the upheaval, I learned the value of persevering through substantial changes in my life. I am really proud to be Colombian and the first person in my family to go to college, a journey made possible by my mom, dad, my older brother, and our dog. Their sacrifices taught me that getting an education is the main way I can build a solid future for all of us.

That is why I chose the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. I felt like UMassD has the right classes and support I need to go after my goal: a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. While I am here, I have clear aims: I want to do well in my classes, make solid connections with my peers and professors, and take on opportunities to build my hands-on technical skills. As a first-generation student, I know my hard work sets an example, proving that dedication and sacrifice lead to real success. Every day at UMassD will be spent preparing for an engineering career that uses my passion for fixing problems, creating new things, and finding practical ways to help others in real-world situations.

My education is not just for me; it is about making a difference that lasts. I want to be a mechanical engineer who designs and develops technology that genuinely improves daily life, especially by working on sustainable energy systems and new, efficient manufacturing methods. With my degree, I plan to thank my family by supporting them, pitch in and mentor in my local community, and contribute globally by promoting promising, helpful innovations. My success can inspire others with similar stories to believe wholeheartedly that they can achieve their biggest dreams.