Javier Martinez received the Mark and Stacy Parkinson Scholarship, which, alongside Wichita State University’s closeness to home and mechanical engineering program, made it a no-brainer for Javier to attend WSU. He used the opportunities available to him as a Shocker to stay up on his studies and now joins his peers in graduating with a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering.

Martinez is one of more than 1,200 students eligible for fall 2024 graduation. Learn more about his time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.

Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering

Wichita

I knew I wanted to study mechanical engineering, and since Wichita State was right here in my hometown, it was my number one choice for college. I ultimately decided on WSU when I received the Mark and Stacy Parkinson Scholarship.

One of the biggest challenges I faced during my college career was managing the demanding course load of mechanical engineering. Many late nights were spent working on schoolwork, often until midnight or later. With the support of my friends and family, I was able to persevere and successfully navigate these challenges.

I found it difficult to study in one spot for long periods, so I rotated between the Cohen Honors College, the Ablah Library and the John Bardo Center. This approach helped me stay focused and maintain productivity. By changing environments, I was able to keep my energy and motivation high throughout my study sessions.

I am currently considering several job offers in the aerospace engineering field. While I have not yet decided which one to accept, I am leaning toward an opportunity here in town. This decision will allow me to stay connected to my friends and family while advancing my career.

I would encourage other students to fully embrace everything college has to offer. Some of my best memories were made with my college friends, and those are moments I will always cherish. College is a unique time to grow, learn and create lifelong connections.

Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.

Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.

The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.

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