Francisco Flores-Martinez
“YVC has presented me with many opportunities that have shaped who I am today. It has helped me get out of my comfort zone and to take on new challenges. “
Pronouns
He/Him
Degree/Certificate & Class Year
Associate of Science Engineering
Hometown
Yakima
Major
Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
Extracurriculars (E.G., Clubs, YVC Sports Teams)
STEM Club, Engineering Club
What three words would you use to describe YVC?
Inclusive, Exciting, Supportive
What’s your favorite class? Why? How has it expanded your knowledge?
My favorite class is physics with Dr. Rodrigue. Physics is my favorite class because I have learned many fundamental principles that have helped my understanding of the behavior of our world.
Who is your mentor on campus? Why do you consider this person your mentor?
I see [STEM Director] Cristy Rasmussen as my mentor. She has guided me since the beginning of my college career.
What made you want to come to YVC?
I wanted to have a smaller community where I could engage more with my peers and instructors.
How did you decide on a major?
My interest in astronautical engineering came from my own curiosity. By participating in extracurricular activities, I felt assured this was the pathway I wanted to choose.
Are there any barriers that you’ve overcome to be successful at YVC? Please describe.
When I first started college, I had poor self–esteem and little confidence in my capabilities.
What do you like or find most interesting about your major?
What I find most interesting about astronautical engineering is the opportunity to be involved in new technology that can help us understand our vast universe.
Where do you find your community on campus?
I find my community to be within the STEM field at YVC. Here I share similar interests and goals with many of my peers.
What advice do you have for prospective students?
Be involved within your community and set short-term and long-term goals. Seek support from others by meeting with your advisor and applying for scholarships that can help with your tuition.
What’s your favorite spot on campus?
Engineering study room
How has Yakima Valley College changed you?
Yakima Valley College has presented me with many opportunities that have shaped who I am today. It has helped me get out of my comfort zone and to take on new challenges.
How do you manage stress?
I am usually stressed during certain times, like finals week. To cope with stress, I take small breaks from whatever I may be doing by watching a show or going outside.
What do you view is your biggest achievement at YVC?
I see my most significant achievement as graduating from YVC this spring with an engineering transfer degree.
Did you receive any financial aid or scholarship funding to attend YVC? If so, please describe how this helped you on your journey.
Yes, I did receive financial aid and scholarship funding. Having another funding source other than a part-time job allowed me to be more selective with my time by participating in extracurriculars and devoting more time to my studies.
What is your ultimate goal? Where would you like to end up?
My ultimate goal is to be an astronautical engineer and significantly impact the field. I want to end up in academia, where I can participate in research.
Interested in getting started at YVC? Visit our admissions page or request information.