Hi, I’m Colin! I’m a senior studying Industrial Engineering at Cal Poly, graduating in June 2026. Over the past few years, I’ve had the chance to intern in both production planning and operations engineering, which has given me a real look at how what we learn in class actually applies in the real world. Outside of school, I like staying active, I’m into working out, hiking, volleyball, and I’ve even gotten into ceramics. I also worked throughout college while balancing a full engineering course load, so I understand what it’s actually like trying to manage classes, friends, internships, and everything else at the same time. When I was applying to college, I remember having so many questions I didn’t feel comfortable asking on official tours. I’d love to give prospective students a genuine, honest perspective on Cal Poly, what the workload is really like, how to get internships, what student life feels like, and the little things you only learn once you’re here.

Hometown

Laguna Niguel, CA

Major(s)

Industrial Engineering

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Theta Chi Fraternity (Cal Poly) Philanthropy Chair. Organized and led philanthropy events, coordinated fundraising efforts, and worked with local organizations to support community causes. Managed event planning, member involvement, and outreach initiatives. Professional Internships Completed two internships in production planning and operations engineering where I worked on process improvement projects, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration in manufacturing environments. Intramural Volleyball (Cal Poly IM Sports) Active participant in campus intramural volleyball leagues and team-based competition while staying involved in campus recreation. Cal Poly Craft Center Ceramics Participate in ceramics classes and open studio sessions, creating pottery and developing hands-on creative skills outside of engineering.

Describe your college experience

Transitioning to Cal Poly was exciting but definitely challenging at first. Moving into an engineering major meant quickly learning how to manage a heavier workload and stay organized. Over time, I found my rhythm by building good study habits, getting involved on campus, and surrounding myself with motivated people. So far, my experience has been very hands-on and practical. Cal Poly really lives up to the “learn by doing” motto, especially in Industrial Engineering, where projects, labs, and real-world applications are a big part of the curriculum. I’ve grown a lot academically and personally, and I feel much more confident in my abilities now than when I first started.

Tip for future students

Don’t compare your path to everyone else’s. Especially in a place like Cal Poly, it can feel like everyone is doing internships, joining clubs, and taking hard classes all at once. Focus on building consistency instead of perfection. Also, go to office hours early, even if you don’t think you need them. And try things outside your major. Some of my best experiences have come from getting involved socially and creatively, not just academically.

Favorite class

One of my favorite classes has been Production Planning and Control. I liked it because it connected data, operations, and real-world decision-making. It helped me understand how manufacturing systems actually run and how engineers make trade-offs between cost, efficiency, and service levels. It felt very practical and closely tied to the type of work I’ve done in my internships.

Career goals

After college, I hope to work in operations, manufacturing, or supply chain in a role that allows me to rotate across different teams and potentially work internationally. I enjoy problem-solving and improving systems, and I’d like to be in a fast-paced environment where I can keep learning and take on increasing responsibility over time.

Ideal way to spend a free night

My ideal free night would be going to the gym or playing volleyball, grabbing dinner with friends in downtown SLO, and then either watching a game, working on ceramics at the craft center, or just hanging out and relaxing. I like staying active but also having time to unwind.

High school or secondary school

Jserra Catholic High school, San Juan Capistrano, CA.