Marissa Ramirez Valdez

My earliest K-State memory would be my first year at K- State spending hours and hours studying in the engineering building with one of my classmates who is now one of my closest friends.

Why did you choose K-State?

I chose K-State because it felt like home. I was born and raised in Fresnillo, Zacatecas, Mexico, but somehow K-State felt like the small town I grew up in. The community was so welcoming, and I did not feel like an outsider.

How are you involved at K-State?

Being a full-time student, I was only able to participate in Women in Engineering my first year of college. Additionally, I am involved in the First-Generation Student Organization and recently joined a competition team within my department.

What has been your favorite K-State experience?

My favorite K-State experience has been going to my first football game in November. I remember that it was so cold that I could not feel my toes or hands. It was very magical to see everyone show up and support K-State football.

How does K-State care for Kansans in your hometown community?

K-State has been a great support in my community as it has a large majority of first-generation students. K-State has always been supportive of that and always provides the right resources for us, the first-generation students.

Why do you want to bring K-State to your community?

I want to bring K-State to my community because I want to motivate and be a resource for others who are first-generation students. Many of them want to go to college but they do not know anything about it or are terrified at the idea of going to college. I was in that position before and I know the feeling of not knowing anything.