Hello, my name is Walter Fernando Carias, and I'm entering my third year studying Electrical Engineering at the University of Washington–Seattle, with a growing interest in hardware and embedded systems. I'm fluent in both English and Spanish, which has shaped how I connect with people and communities. Outside of class, you'll usually find me hiking around the Cascades, catching a game with friends, or spending time with family. I'm also involved with CIS and other international organizations, which has been a rewarding way to give back to the Seattle community and to my heritage as well. I'm excited to keep growing as an engineer and eventually start working on projects with my team.

Hometown

Los Angeles, California then moved to Federal Way, Washington at the age of 13

Major(s)

Electrical Engineering and maybe a major in Physics

Minor(s)

Math

Clubs, organizations & involvement

STARS, Latin Student Union, Tennis Club

Describe your college experience

Transitioning to college was a smooth adjustment for me. l am the first person in my whole family to go to college, so I had to adapt to a new life that no one I knew has done before. Studying Electrical Engineering at the University of Washington–Seattle pushed me to develop stronger time management,problem-solving skills early on, especially through courses like Calculus and Physics series. Since then, my experience has been shaped by being able to visit microsoft offices, meeting the CEO of Blue Origin and designing projects with others. This helped me gain a sense of maturity and motivation to pursue something better. Heading into my third year, I feel confident about taking new classes, maybe joining greek life and networking with others.

Tip for future students

If I could go back, I'd tell incoming students to prepare to be by yourself especially if you live away from home. It will be scary and difficult sometimes, you may have some imposter syndrome moments and that is okay. But you have to remember that you belong there, and you can be there. I recommend connecting with professors as most professors will give you some lee way if they you make it known that you are trying. The quarter system moves fast, so do not procrastinate, try to finish everything by friday so you can the weekend to relax and maybe study. I'd also encourage getting involved in clubs, internships, or greeklife early, since it's a great way to meet new people from different parts of the state​/​country and to see where you want to be. Lastly, don't forget to make time for yourself. You get so wrapped in classes that you might forget to take a step back and take care yourself. If you take anything from what I said today, please take time for youself. You can't perfome to great standards if you are not okay mentally and phsycally.

Favorite class

My favorite class has been Physics 121, since I love physics and my professor was great. It was challenging but when I finally got it, it was like a surge of joy running through me. You might not find this clsas enjoying and that is okay because UW has so many classes that it's impossible for everyone to agree on "what is the best class"

Career goals

I want to go in the industry, maybe work for big companies like Nintendo, Nvidia and Sony to name a few. I love hardware and I love working on it so being in a position that allows me to do that will be amazing.

Ideal way to spend a free night

Take time to relax, decompress and just do what you like doing. On my free nights I maybe go out with friends, or play video games. I like to just forget about life for a bit and let me enjoy it. So I recommend doing whatever you find fun, and enjoying.

High school or secondary school

Federal Way HighSchool, Sacajawea Middle School both in Federal Way, Washington