Ari Hernandez

“I started classes at Dallas College in 2016, but I needed to figure out some things after having a second semester that didn’t go well. I thought I would be content just working, but I was bored out of my mind and constantly looking for mental stimulation.

“Any sense of trepidation that you feel or lack of faith in your abilities that stems from whatever led you here is valid. Let yourself feel what you feel and walk forward. Let your actions define your future.”

When Ari returned to Dallas College, he signed up for two courses. “I really enjoyed it. Being back in college felt like I was taking a step forward. It's exciting and also terrifying. Those two emotions tend to go together.

“Richland Campus had a STEM open house, and I decided to attend at the last minute. I learned about the Undergraduate Research at Dallas College (UR@DC) program. I didn't know that was available at the community college level. It was amazing to find out about. Then, I attended a daylong course as part of UR@DC’s BURST:ARISE program. That was my first time interacting with any sort of coding.”

Ari credits STEM League advisor Fabiola Resendez and previous STEM Ambassador Maris Rodriguez for providing an influential support system at Dallas College. Ari says they set examples in their roles and helped him learn about STEM programs, initiatives and events, which led to his becoming a STEM Ambassador.

“In my role, I work with the Texas A&M Engineering Academy at Dallas College primarily helping out during the application process. I keep up with students, make sure their applications are filled out. If they have any questions, they can ask me or an advisor.

“I also help with event planning. Richland Campus hosted a large engineering competition with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The UR@DC program took a team that competed in the student design competition. They made a machine that sorts ball bearings by size and material. The human-powered vehicle competition tested decked-out bikes on an obstacle course. I assisted with registration and setting up the obstacle course, made sure participants were getting lunch and helped people find their way.“

“We explore programs like the NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCCAS), and I love telling other students about these types of programs that make you feel like you're taking a step in the right direction toward earning your degree.”

Dallas College STEM League is open to all qualifying students, including those who are in programs unrelated to STEM. “Some people in non-STEM majors reject the idea of being in a STEM organization because they feel they aren’t smart enough or talented enough. I’m not the smartest or most talented person in the room, but I’m curious, and that’s more than enough. Don't let your own sense of limitation stop you.”

Ari is earning his Associate of Science Field of Study in Electrical Engineering degree at Dallas College and graduates in Spring 2026. After graduation, Ari plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree with a focus on electrical engineering.

“While I explore my options for university transfer programs, I look forward to fulfilling all my classes ... not just getting them out of the way but actually understanding them and exploring new routes.”

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