Stories of Impact: Oscar Sosa Cordova

I’m intrigued by the development of bridges, high-rise buildings and other architecture — and how our civilization built the infrastructures we see today. This inspired me to learn more about professions in civil engineering.

As a civil engineering major, my career goal is to help develop infrastructure in California, such as building homes. Ultimately, I’d like to give back by teaching at a community college or university and encouraging future underrepresented students in the fields of engineering.

Being awarded the Gayton Scholarship has taken a lot of weight off my shoulders. I no longer have to question if I have enough funds for tuition, rent, food and books to graduate. I won’t have to ask myself what more I’ll have to sacrifice to complete my civil engineering degree.

After graduation, I plan to pursue a graduate degree and attain certifications, including a Professional Engineer (PE) license, which will allow me to design structures with a seal of approval.

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“I created the Gayton Scholarship at Cal State Fullerton in honor of my parents, Ann and Fred Gayton. My father, Fred, was an electrical engineer and encouraged others to study in the STEM fields. This scholarship endowment continues our legacy of championing higher education and supporting women and underrepresented students in the STEM fields.
— Beth Gayton Bangert ’71 (B.A. history)

Students share, in their own words, how they were empowered by their Titan education. Thanks to you, our generous community of donors, these students discovered their passions and leadership potential in academics, arts and athletics.

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