Erick Flores-Ortega

“I took pre-engineering courses in high school, and even though I had good grades, I didn’t get accepted into my top two universities. Dallas College was originally my backup plan, but honestly, it’s been a really great opportunity.

“I waited until the last day to register for classes. Even though it was very busy, they were helpful. I had already taken classes in drafting. I took my first classes, blueprint reading and sketching, at Dallas College Mountain View Campus. Taking a night class and weekend class allowed me the freedom to work.

“I really wanted to take in-person classes offered at Eastfield. I went to the resource tables during the resource fair, and I came across Ms. Faby (Fabiola Resendiz, STEM League coordinator). She invited me to join STEM League, and since I didn't know anybody at Eastfield Campus, I just got more involved. I started volunteering at a lot of events like the STEM Expo with DISD at the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Center. I was eventually introduced to TRIO, and that helped a lot with the community aspect.

“I was around the program a lot, and the previous STEM Ambassador Maris Rodriguez suggested I apply for the position.

“As a STEM Ambassador, we do a lot of tabling events to let students know which resources and programs are available. We help with the youth camps during the summer, volunteering at events with outside organizations like DISD and at the Frontiers of Flight Museum and helping out on field trips.

“We do mixers at the Eastfield STEM Center and activities that allow us to participate in cultural days. To combat stress before finals week, Student Life will hold arts and crafts activities, while the STEM Center might play a movie and offer snacks and STEM activities. During STEM Spirit Week, we’ll lead a CAD Workshop series and different engagement activities.

“I would tell others who are considering Dallas College to give it a chance, take the opportunity to enjoy it and make the most of your time here, whether you want an associate degree or something in a technical field, or are just trying to better yourself. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to never give up.

“Go see Student Life. It started there. I went to have my badge picture taken, and the person who helped me invited me to an event. Getting involved helps a lot. You make friends who are on the same path as you, and share stories, study together and find your community. 

“Within different clubs like STEM, you find opportunities that could lead to a job or just a friendly face to talk about shared experiences. Having that community helps.”

Erick is earning his Associate of Applied Science in Computer-Aided Design and Drafting. He is working toward certificates in Advanced Architectural Drafting and Advanced Mechanical Drafting. He plans to stay another year to finish his associate degree as he continues to work with STEM League. Erick plans to transfer to a four-year university to earn a bachelor’s degree in architecture.

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