Olivia Rivera

What’ve you enjoyed most about your area of study? Was there a particular discovery, new skill or way of thinking, or insight that you found especially valuable? Please share an example from your favorite class or experience. Spanish? Was there a particular discovery, skill, or way of thinking that you found especially valuable? Feel free to share an example from a favorite class or experience.

As a Puerto Rican American, learning the Spanish language has been really fun and motivating when I realize how well I can communicate with my family in their native tongue. However, I’ve most enjoyed learning about the cultures of different Spanish-speaking countries around the world, whether it be via class content or study abroad experiences. Language is such a beautiful thing in that it shapes how you see the world and once you realize that the more languages at your disposal, the more vivid and awe-inspiring the world can become!

How does the knowledge from this field, or your interest in it, combine with your other major or minor studies at MIT?

My interest in Spanish connects to my mechanical engineering degree in two ways. Firstly, many companies today are global and require employees to interact across borders and time zones. By understanding the Spanish language and being empathetic and curious about other cultures, I am equipped to collaborate successfully with international partners. Secondly, learning about the history of Spanish-speaking countries has changed my perspective on how the products I design and produce as an engineer affect those whose experiences I cannot personally relate to. Designing for communities that are not my own requires me to have a willingness to learn about other’s experiences and ensure that I am not excluding certain people or cultures through my work. 

An MIT education includes study in the scientific, technical, social science, arts, and humanities fields. How do you think that wide range of knowledge and perspectives will be valuable to you – for your career success and for your enjoyment of life?

I’ve always believed that well-rounded people are the ones who not only find success in their future endeavors but also fulfillment and purpose. There are so many things in life that I want to learn about and by diversifying my education at MIT, I have begun to see the value that science, art, technology, and social science have on everything we, as humans, experience. As a mechanical engineer with a specialized concentration in product design, the form and function of any product on the market is a byproduct of interdisciplinaries working together to create something meaningful.

What are your plans for the future?

I will be working at General Motors as a TRACK engineer after graduation. I’m excited (and nervous) to put my knowledge and skills to practice!