Daniela Santibanez’s journey into engineering began in high school when her teachers noticed her talent and enthusiasm for STEM subjects. Encouraged by their support, she became interested in engineering, drawn by its problem-solving focus. “Engineering seemed to blend together my passion for using my knowledge or technical skills to create things or processes that could help people or society in some capacity,” Santibanez explained.
Her decision to attend NC State was heavily influenced by a pre-college program called CAMNIOS, which she participated in the summer before her senior year. This experience introduced her to a community of passionate learners with similar backgrounds, inspiring her to fully embrace her college aspirations and cultural heritage. “This personal experience with NC State and its campus allowed me to discover the genuine and welcoming atmosphere here,” Santibanez recalled.
Once at NC State, Santibanez discovered industrial and systems engineering (ISE) through a first-year engineering info session. She was immediately attracted to ISE’s flexibility, allowing her to impact various industries. “ISE work provided an intersection between using engineering skills to pursue social good opportunities,” she said. This combination of versatility and social impact made ISE a perfect fit for her values and career goals.
As Santibanez’s senior year approached, she felt there was still much more to learn. Courses like Health Systems Engineering and Humanitarian Logistics sparked her interest in continuing her education. She was mainly motivated by the possibility of developing models and processes that ensure quality care for underserved communities. “My ambitions to make a broader impact on healthcare and humanitarian equity have motivated me to pursue a master’s degree in Operations Research,” she explained. Through this program, she hoped to gain the technical skills needed to work in the healthcare industry, with a long-term goal of serving communities and promoting healthcare equity.
Outside of academics, Santibanez found time to engage in activities she enjoyed, such as indoor group cycling classes and attending concerts. However, one of her greatest passions was fortifying and growing STEM awareness and opportunities for underrepresented students. Through her involvement in organizations like SHPE and WMEP, she witnessed the positive impact of support and community involvement on these students. “I’ve learned the positive impact support and community involvement can have on these students, as well as the diverse perspectives and contributions these students can have in the engineering field,” she shared.
Santibanez’s journey is a testament to the power of education, community, and a commitment to social good. Her story highlights the impact of early encouragement, the importance of finding a welcoming environment, and the drive to make a difference through engineering.