Pauline Oteyza is a Biomedical Engineering student from Waldorf, MD. She shares why she chose to attend Catholic University and the School of Engineering, and what advice she has for prospective students.
Why did you choose to attend Catholic University and the School of Engineering?
"I chose Catholic University because I felt the most at home with the beautiful campus, the small school environment, and the opportunities to grow in my faith and knowledge. I decided on the School of Engineering because I heard such amazing things about the Biomedical Engineering program from alumni."
Why do you want to be an engineer?
"I want to be a biomedical engineer because I desire to help heal and care for sick and disabled patients as effectively and efficiently as possible using my knowledge of biomedical engineering, diligence, compassion, creativity, and design skills."
What's been your favorite part of being a student at Catholic University?
"My favorite part about being a student at Catholic University is the people. I'm incredibly blessed to have met many kind, faith-filled, and driven people, especially my friends and the parent-like professors who genuinely cared about my well-being and success. I'm so grateful to God for Catholic University's faculty, staff, and students who helped me to be the person I am today."
What advice would you give to prospective students?
"Research and visit schools that align with your hopes, career goals, and values. If possible, try to visit colleges while they're in session. If you go on the guided college tour, also explore the buildings of the schools you're interested in, check out the student community, research the clubs/activities, and converse with current students and alumni about their experiences (especially for the majors you're interested in). Ask yourself, 'Can I see myself going to school here? Does the school's community, environment, and opportunities help me to grow into the person I want to become (for my personal growth, career, faith, etc.)?'
I understand how stressful, exciting, and daunting the college application process can be. Just remember, life is too short to live with regrets. So, don't be afraid to fail because they are only opportunities to succeed or learn. Know yourself, but don't be afraid to go outside your comfort zone. C.S. Lewis said, "You can't go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending." Life can be a wonderful and wild adventure. I pray that you find colleges that are a good fit for you and will help you to become the best version of yourself."
