This First-generation Student Plans to Give Back in a Unique Way

Mendoza, who is a member of Mason’s Honors College and a University Scholar. “The program has helped me with things that my parents wouldn’t have known, so I’m extremely grateful.”

Keiry Chicas, an academic success coach and senior transition specialist for EIP, praised CespedesMendoza’s hard work and dedication. The EIP supports more than 700 Mason students annually.

“Since the first day I met her, she was always attentive and persistent with her work, which has allowed her to keep moving beyond what is expected,” Chicas says. “I can’t wait to see what the future holds for her.”

In high school, Cespedes-Mendoza completed an internship with a house remodeling company in Arlington.

“I got to go onto an actual house site and talk to the workers, and they would teach me what they were doing,” she says. “This opportunity allowed me to have more insight into construction and the environment it holds.”

Her father, who works in construction, also taught her how to fix things around the house while growing up, she says. “I loved to help him out.” g