Dayrin Mendez, a senior in biological engineering, has a passion for helping those in need and will use her UGA education as a springboard to obtain her medical degree.
University Highlights and Achievements
Throughout my UGA experience, I have been involved in many organizations. I have been a member of Engineers Without Borders since my freshman year and have served as vice president and, currently, as president. I am a College of Engineering ambassador, in which I get the chance to share with others the amazing opportunities that being an engineer has offered me. I have participated in the Science Venture Program, in which I spend time with high school students and share my love of science while motivating them to pursue a college career.
I also have been a member of UGA Red Cross, Society of Women Engineers, the National Society of Black Engineers, Peach State Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation and the Center for Undergraduate Research Opportunities. I had the honor of receiving the annual Rotaract Student Service Award last year.
Along with my membership involvements, I have also led the efforts to help design a well and water purification system for the city of San Isidro in El Salvador. Years in the making, this international service project, coordinated through Engineers Without Borders, has allowed me to visit this country and work with government officials to provide a needed resource for the people of the community.
One of my biggest achievements has been working in professor William Kisaalita’s cellular bioengineering laboratory. I have gained valuable skills that have prepared me for my future career goals as well as made me a more complex and critical thinker.
