Cris Gaviria
Hometown
Suwanee, GA
High School
Mill Creek High School
Degree Major
Current: B.S., Civil Engineering
Earned: B.S., Biological Engineering, 2022
Expected Graduation
May 2024
What is your favorite thing about being a student at UGA?
My favorite thing about being at UGA is getting to be exposed to such a wide range of people. It has really helped to open my views. Being at UGA has helped me become more well rounded.
Why did you choose engineering?
I picked engineering because I enjoy problem solving. Having the ability to pick out an issue and come up with solutions to fix it is really satisfying. Now add the fact that my work could help humanity as a whole makes choosing engineering an easy choice.
Why is it important for the university to have a diverse community?
It is important for the university to have a diverse community in order to produce open minded individuals. I believe that this exposure is what makes UGA grads special, we are not just good at what we do technically but also good people overall.
What has been the greatest challenge you have faced while at UGA, and how did you overcome it?
My greatest challenge while at UGA had to be losing a loved one. It point me in a dark place because I felt like I just had to carry it on my own. Once I started opening up to my friends and received their love and support it made the pain less painful. This experience taught me that every person has a community they can/should tape into when they need help.
What have you learned that has made a difference for you?
I have learned that there is a value in having soft skills. It really is crazy how much of an impact having strong soft skills can have. I used to view them as a cop out way of saying you don’t have any technical skills but now I know those soft skills is what really sets you up for success.
Who has helped you become a successful student at UGA?
Hands down has to be Dr. Durham. The man does not sleep and goes out of his way to support me. Be it sending me job/internship opportunities or just being available to talk Dr. Durham has shown me that being a good person with pure intentions is what I want to be. His support has helped me get to where I am at UGA.
What is your favorite spot on campus and why?
The art museum because not a lot of people go to it and it gives me a great study break. Love walking around and seeing real art. It inspires me to think outside the box.
What has been your favorite class at UGA?
For sure it has been statics because it was the first class I have ever taken that really made me see the world around me differently.
What has been your best memory at UGA?
My best memory at UGA has been getting my biological engineering degree in 2022. I felt like I accomplished something worthwhile and seeing the proud look in my mother’s eyes is something that I will never forget.
What advice do you have for younger students who wish to pursue engineering?
It is going to hurt, but you are not alone. Talk to your peers, ask for help, be open about your struggles. Engineering is not that hard, but life sure can be. Lean on your community for support. Engineering at UGA is special because the students help support one another. Ask for help! Fist bump a stranger! Make friends!
How do you hope to impact society with your engineering degree?
I hope that someday I will be able to design affordable sustainable living communities for single parent households. I want kids to have a home that is stable and that they are proud of. I want take away parents’ fear of having to move their kids around for cheaper housing.
