Miguel Antonio Ruiz, Transfer Class of 2025, found his passion for engineering through his experience in the Marine Corps. Read more to learn about how major life events have shaped him and his future career goals.
Why did you choose your major?
I chose my major because I discovered my two most intrinsic passions while enlisted as an engineer in the Marine Corps. These two passions were creating things through engineering and helping others. Near the end of my enlistment, I was involved in a serious vehicle accident. 15 inches of titanium was inserted into my right tibia and I later became in need of more bioimplants. After working on various engineering projects in various parts of the world such as the southwest border and Norway I knew I wanted to apply my engineering talents to something that I felt more passionate about. With the current advancements in engineering, I realized that I was very lucky to be born in the modern day because 100 years ago I may have never walked again. My intent with my major is to continue to serve others through creativity and adapt innovative thought as those who have come before me have impacted me. Engineering to me has a deep history going all the way back to the beginning of time. People like St. Patrick (the patron saint of engineering) have always been idols to me as their ideas were often not accepted by their respective present times but their works once adapted have advanced our way of life for all of time beyond their lives.
What is your favorite part about the Goodnight Scholars program?
My favorite part of the program is the diversity of students and the community we create. This reminds me once again of my service and I enjoy seeing how the institution/program develops young individuals who are realizing their potential.
Are you involved in any extracurriculars that you could tell us more about?
Currently not involved in any extracurricular activities as I require right inguinal canal surgery and my health is still limiting.
Do you have any plans after your undergraduate degree?
I hope to work in industry after graduation. Specifically in rehabilitation engineering or with microelectronic devices to emulate nerve stimulation.
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