Raymundo Muro-Barrios

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Major:
Materials Science & Engineering

Year:
Senior

Hometown:
New Lenox, IL

Other extracurricular activities:

  • The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers
  • The Morrill Engineering Program
  • The Center for Academic Resources in Engineering

Research/Internship/Co-op experience:

  • Hopkins Extreme Materials Institute
    Engineering Research Intern
    (SUMMER 2018)
  • Beckman Institute - The Autonomous Materials Systems Group
    Undergraduate Researcher
    (2 MONTHS)

Why Illinois?

The reputation of Illinois and it's Engineering school out truly paced itself. I was a senior in high school and I knew that I wanted to pursue engineering in college. So when it came time to apply, I set my eyes on the largest engineering school still relatively close to home and with an affordable tuition.

What has been your best experience at Illinois?

Being able to make a lasting experience on other students through tutoring has been my favorite experience at Illinois. Particularly, seeing students I help through the Center of Academic Resources in Engineering advance in their studies and become stellar students inspires me to continues helping others.

Favorite part about being an engineering student?

Engineering gives me the opportunity to challenge myself everyday. I learn skills everyday that will enable me to make real world change and change the world for the better after graduating.

Why did you join EA?

To me, Engineering Ambassadors is a vessel that allows me share my passion about science and engineering while rewarding me with valuable presentational skills and public speaking experience. I believe we all have a unique skillset that enables us to make the world a brighter place that comes from inside. Through Engineering Ambassadors, I share my passion for engineering to the younger generations, and spread the fire within.

What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a STEM degree?

Go for it! STEM degrees are definitely attainable, and some of the most rewarding careers in the world. Although exceling in the STEM courses can be difficult at times, don't lose hope. The grater the challenge, the greater the reward.

What do you plan on doing post-graduation?

I plan to pursue my Masters of Engineering in Materials Science and Engineering and joining the workforce after graduating in May 2019. Future aspirations include becoming a Materials Lead Engineer and Supervisor one day down the road. CEO, here I come.