Math and Science Specialist - Introduction

Hello! STEM Scholars,

My name is Laura Torres and I am pleased to be the new Title V Math and Science Specialist. I cannot wait to meet all of you. As a way to break the ice, I would like to introduce myself. In 2009, I attained my Bachelors in Science and Engineering (B.S.E) within the branch of Civil/Environmental Engineering. President Barack Obama was the speaker at my graduation ceremony and in his speech he stimulated us (the graduates) to continue achieving other dreams. Graduations are a celebration of an accomplishment, but should also serve as a motivation to complete more goals. In a time of economic strains, this speech was very inspiring and it has been well-infused in my mind. It reminds me that we need to keep going (like the energizer bunny). There are so many opportunities we can take advantage, and as President Obama stated: if there are no opportunities, make them. It is time to act, to put our skills into action and help others.

My passion in life is to help others and therefore I have previously served as a Senior Counselor for the Math Science Honors Program (MSHP) at ASU, tutored both at ASU and Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC), and was a member for various organizations at ASU. Math and science have always been my two favorite subjects and therefore I am so delighted to be your Math and Science Specialist. I would like to use my educational experience to assist you in having a successful semester and to accomplish your goals. Stop by my office when you have a chance, so that I can get to know you. I am located in what used to be Valerie’s office in the lower level of the library. I will post a schedule on my door for the possible time slots when we can meet. However, you are always welcome to stop by at any time or schedule an appointment with me. I will also be available at the Success Center on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

I have been a student and continue to be a student (I am working on my Masters in Environmental Technology Management), so I understand the various challenges that a student may confront. As my engineering professors have stated, there are always solutions to the various complications we can encounter. I hope this introduction gives you an idea of my background. However, stop by; I look forward to meeting you in person. Have a great day!