Student thriving in a diverse and supportive community at UIC
As a Chicago native, Ash Antuñez knew she wanted to attend a university that reflects the diversity she knows and appreciates. That is why she chose to study civil, materials, and environmental engineering (CME) at UIC.
“The College of Engineering is a diverse community that embraces students from various backgrounds, including many first-generation college students like myself,” she said. Becoming aware that most students work while attending school full-time resonated deeply with my own experience of balancing work and academics. This shared experience creates a supportive environment where mutual understanding and encouragement thrive, allowing students to flourish and succeed in their academic and professional pursuits.”
In addition to a shared experience, Antuñez finds support from the comprehensive programs provided to the UIC community, including tailored workshops, peer mentoring programs, and community-building events to enhance the educational experience and promote equity across the student body.
“These programs play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive environment by addressing the specific needs of diverse student populations, helping them navigate their academic and personal journeys successfully,” Antuñez said. “By tackling crucial topics like social and environmental justice, students are empowered to assert their identities and thrive.”
In the classroom, she cited Active Transportation with Clinical Assistant Professor Farid Peiravian as her favorite class.
“His approach in civil engineering goes beyond infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of integrating active transportation and walkable cities into urban planning to enhance quality of life and create vibrant communities, which allow individuals to create meaningful connections,” Antuñez said.
Along with Peiravian’s course, she noted that UIC is preparing her and her peers for the working world in many ways. It offers opportunities for internships, co-op programs, and research projects, which allows students to gain valuable hands-on experience and apply theoretical knowledge to real-world engineering challenges.
“These experiences provide us with exposure to industry practices, standards, and technologies, helping us develop practical problem-solving abilities and industry-relevant skills. Engaging projects, student organizations, and leadership programs further hones critical thinking, leadership, and teamwork skills,” she said.
“This comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared to tackle complex problems and adapt to the dynamic demands of the engineering field, setting them up for success in their future careers,” she added.
Outside the classroom, she is a dedicated member of several student organizations, including the American Society of Civil Engineers’ Sustainable Solutions, Food Recovery Network, ASCE, and the Institute of Transportation Engineering.
After UIC, Antuñez plans to use her degree to dedicate more time to participating in grassroots-led projects around Chicago.
“I aspire to immerse myself in mutual aid initiatives that enable collaboration with individuals from various fields to empower communities through meaningful projects, and actively engage with grassroots organizations, community leaders, and fellow professionals to leverage our collective expertise and resources in service of community needs. I am committed to working alongside diverse stakeholders to drive positive change and create a lasting impact,” Antuñez said.