GS Spotlight: Estevan Zamora

1. Tell us about yourself, this includes your major, what your interests are, what goodnight cohort you belong to, etc… 

Hi! My name is Estevan, I am part of the Transfer Class of 2025, and I am majoring in mechanical engineering. My passion within engineering lies in renewable energy. I am driven by the opportunity to contribute to the global transition to clean energy. I hope to make a difference and take part in innovative solutions that build a more sustainable future that take on the climate change crisis. The prospect of engaging in hands-on work that directly impacts our planet’s future is both exciting and fulfilling to me. 

Outside of my academic and career pursuits, I love playing and watching soccer. My favorite teams include FC Barcelona and las Chivas de Guadalajara. I also enjoy listening to Latin music, including banda, norteñas, corridos and reggaeton– I frequently catch live performances at concerts and jaripeos. I’ve also had the chance to travel to Canada, Puerto Rico, and various states across the U.S., but my favorite destination is Michoacán, Mexico, where my parents grew up. I visit every year, and it’s always a great time!

2. What motivated you to apply for this scholarship, and how has it impacted your academic and personal goals?

I applied for the Goodnight Scholars Program because it offered a valuable opportunity to overcome financial challenges and pursue my passion for STEM. Growing up in a low-income household, I balanced two jobs—landscaping and working at Lowe’s hardware—while managing community college coursework and maintaining good grades. Witnessing my parents’ struggles with physically demanding jobs further motivated me to seek a higher education. The program’s emphasis on building a supportive community, combined with its focus on professional development, leadership, and networking opportunities, truly stood out to me. Although I applied at the last minute, it has proven to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Goodnight has provided essential support, opened doors to valuable opportunities, and inspired me to make a difference in my community.

3. Can you describe a particular challenge you’ve faced during your time at NC STATE and how the scholarship has supported you in overcoming it?

When I first started at NC State, I struggled with imposter syndrome and often doubted my abilities. The Goodnight Scholars Program helped me push past these feelings by offering support and encouragement. The pro-staff and fellow scholars reassured me that I belong here and am truly deserving of my place. Their support encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, helping me grow from someone who was once very shy into a more confident individual. Getting close to the Goodnight community is something I recommend to all scholars. They’ve been a source of stress relief, making my college experience much more enjoyable and fulfilling

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4. Can you share a memorable experience or highlight from your university life that has been particularly meaningful to you?

One of my most memorable experiences was participating in the Goodnight ECO trip to Puerto Rico. During this trip, we engaged in hands-on service work, such as rebuilding homes damaged by hurricanes, maintaining trails, and painting a community center. This not only allowed us to make a real difference but also helped us connect with the local community. It was also the first time I felt truly connected to other scholars in the program as we bonded through reflections, exploring, and spending time together. We had a lot of fun staying up late playing games and socializing, which made it easy to vibe with everyone. A specific fun moment was when everyone tried to teach me how to swim at a farm we volunteered at—though I would freak out every time my ears touched the water. Despite everyone’s best efforts, I still don’t know how to swim! Overall, the trip was a fantastic blend of service, cultural exploration, and great times with friends.

5. How has being part of the scholarship program influenced your perspective on community involvement or social responsibility?

Being part of the Goodnight Scholars Program has deeply influenced my perspective on community involvement and social responsibility. The program gave me the confidence to take on leadership roles, such as being a program ambassador, retreat leader, and mentor with SHPE (Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers). These experiences have highlighted the importance of supporting and uplifting others, reflecting the values of paying it forward that I’ve embraced. In my application essay for the Goodnight Program, I expressed a desire to join a community where I could give back. Over the past two years, I’ve been able to fulfill that desire, from helping new students transition to NC State as a retreat leader to mentoring fellow Goodnight Scholars and others in SHPE. This community has been incredibly supportive and rewarding, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of it and continue making a difference. Additionally, my involvement in the program has inspired me to focus on growing and inspiring the next generation of Hispanic and Latina students in STEM fields, particularly in areas where there is low representation.