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Sophia Guilarte
Florida Atlantic University - Mechanical Engineering Major
Sophia Guilarte is an undergraduate student at Florida Atlantic University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on thermal management systems, engine efficiency, and sustainable engineering. Her passion for designing solutions that improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact drives her commitment to creating a more sustainable future.
At Florida Atlantic University, Sophia has distinguished herself as a dedicated student and emerging leader. She serves as an Engineering Lab Assistant in the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Laboratories, supporting faculty and peers with engineering projects. Her work has extended to presenting research at an IEEE conference and contributing to undergraduate research in the FAU BioRobotics Lab. Currently interning at Aerospace Technologies Group, Sophia is developing expertise in aircraft thermal control systems, further deepening her professional experience.
Sophia's leadership and community commitment are evident through her active involvement with the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE) and the Technology and Aerospace Club at FAU. She also volunteers with Color-A-Smile, reflecting her belief in giving back. Balancing rigorous coursework with hands-on projects and service, Sophia exemplifies a well-rounded engineer dedicated to technical excellence and community impact.
Despite facing challenges in male-dominated fields, including imposter syndrome and financial barriers, Sophia remains determined to continue her STEM education. She is motivated by the belief that she can make a lasting impact in sustainable engineering and is committed to becoming a role model for other women in STEM.
We are proud to support her academic journey with the See The Endless Possibilities STEM scholarship.
Farrah Lenord
Kennesaw State University-Biology Major with Health Concentration
Farrah Lenord is a first-year student at Kennesaw State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Health Concentration. Her passion for science and healthcare runs alongside her dedication to leadership and community service.
Farrah is the granddaughter of the late LD Price, a generous donor and beloved supporter of See The Endless Possibilities. In his memory, the organization founded a summer camp scholarship for children. Farrah's character shows she walks proudly in her grandfather's footsteps, believing in creating her own path while lifting others along the way.
At Global Impact Academy, Farrah stood out as a natural leader and hard worker. She was an active member of HOSA and the BETA Club, served as an officer in Student Government where she managed social media and organized events, and coached youth cheer and basketball with Union City Parks and Recreation. A passionate advocate for women in STEM, she mentors younger students and encourages young women to pursue careers in science and healthcare.
Farrah's greatest inspiration is her grandad, LD Price, who taught her to create her own path, work hard for what she wants, and never let anyone pull her away from her goals. His memory continues to guide her as she pursues her dreams in healthcare, determined to make a lasting impact just as he did.
We are proud to support her academic journey with the See The Endless Possibilities STEM scholarship.
A Conversation with Jessica Haidar
Electrical Engineer
When did you first know you wanted to be an engineer?
Becoming an engineer was always at the front of my mind. My mother is an engineer, and I’ve always enjoyed math and science. The point at which my interest was solidified was when I took a physics class in high school, which I really enjoyed.
How did you choose the specific type of engineering?
I knew I wanted to become an electrical engineer after learning about electricity and magnetism in physics. Also, when I was in high school, I saw a documentary on Nicholas Tesla; his work and inventions sparked an interest in electricity for me.
What was the biggest challenge you faced and how did you overcome it?
I came to the United States from Cuba when I was in 7th grade. Although I only spoke Spanish at the time, language was not my only barrier. It was difficult to find guidance and we lived well below the poverty line. Looking back, having those obstacles only made me work harder. I had to work a part time job for the majority of my college career, and therefore had to learn how to manage my time. I think the reason I overcame those obstacles was because I was very focused on what I wanted, and I knew it was only a matter of time for me to achieve it.
What specifically did you do to keep pushing yourself? Did you ever want to give up? Can you discuss more of your struggle?
It would have been easy for me to just be a victim of circumstance, but for me failure was not an option. I broke my leg during my third year of college, and I was advised to drop all my classes that semester, since it would take surgery and many therapy sessions for me to walk again. I only dropped one class that semester, because it had a lab component, and I had to be physically present to complete the class. To stay motivated, I kept working towards my goals, no matter what life would throw at me. The thought of becoming an engineer helped me overcome the challenges life presented.
What do you do today?
I am a Protection and Controls (P&C) Engineer at a Power company in Florida. As a P&C Engineer, I design substation layouts which are turned into drawings for the field engineers to assemble a new or update an existing substation.
Do you currently volunteer in the community?
I recently participated in an event called the “Bake-off Competition” to raise money for local non-profits which support our local community. Additionally, I volunteered when the local Girl Scouts chapter brought girls of all ages to the power company, where they had the opportunity to participate in engineering challenges. It was a great way to introduce young girls to engineering and see what we do at a power company.
What message would you like to share with anyone considering an engineering degree?
If you are considering engineering, you should definitely do internships with different companies as soon as possible. There are many engineering internships you could apply to, even in the first year of college. This will give you a greater understanding of what your day to day life will be like in that company after you graduate. Not only are most engineering internships paid, but it will give you real life experience in engineering and in that company.
Shavonti Archer, Founder of Systematic Motivation, LLC
An Engineer, Mentor and Advocate for Diversity
Shavonti Archer is a skilled engineer by trade, advocating for diversity within the engineering community. She founded Systematic Motivation, LLC in 2018, a company- based foundation whose primary focus is creating more opportunities for minority students to explore their interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) programs and encourage their desire to pursue a career in STEM. Born and raised in Locust Grove, Georgia where she attended Luella High School, Archer quickly discovered her love for engineering as a 10th grade student. She was instantly captivated by videos of solar and wind farms.
In 2013, Shavonti graduated from Georgia Southern University to attain her Bachelors of Science in Mechanical Engineering. During her tenure at GSU, she became a member of The Society of Women Engineers and would later become president of the organization. She was instrumental in launching Society of African American Sisterhood (SAAS) on GSU’s campus. She served as an orientation leader, a Habitat for Humanity volunteer and managed to complete an internship with Rayonier Performance Fibers and one of the largest engineering companies to date, General Electric.
In conjunction with her current role as a transmission and distribution engineer for a local utility company, Shavonti’s involvement with engineering organizations such as The Society of Women Engineers has allowed to present and share her knowledge at over 100 speaking engagements, connecting with both adults and children. At her most recent speaking engagement, Shavonti spoke to the young women of EmpowHER in West Palm Beach, FL. She shared her journey to becoming an engineer and what motivated her to stay committed.
Shavonti is a thought leader with a passion for giving back. Systematic Motivation, LLC further supports the idea that engineers are not limited to a certain look or color. Though the industry is dominated by those who are not minorities, there is still room for pioneers from other communities. Systematic Motivation’s aspires to level the playing field and broaden the horizons for all students.
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