Veronica Padrino

MY STORY

My name is Veronica Padrino.  I am a first-generation international student at George Mason University studying Mechanical Engineering. When I was eight years old, my mother, sister and I left Venezuela and moved to Panama in search of better opportunities. Uprooting and adapting have been themes throughout my life, and even though it was difficult, it taught me resilience and independence. When I was old enough, I decision to move to the United States to live with extended family and peruse my higher education. During my programs at Mason, I have worked on creative projects such as designing a blimp with retractable wings and designing a drone to help during natural disasters. I also serve on the Mechanical Engineering Advisory Board and mentor first generation students through the Early Identification Program. In the future, I hope to pursue graduate studies in Aerospace Engineering and design technology that helps people in times of crisis, while continuing to support and inspire other students like me.