Marco

I’ve always been passionate about technology, learning, and solving problems—and studying AI and Data Science at the University of Guadalajara feels like the perfect next step. This career is more than just a choice for me—it’s a dream that aligns with everything I value: innovation, constant growth, and making an impact through tech.

During high school, I led team projects, played in the orchestra and on the soccer team, and even organized a fundraising race that brought together over 100 people. I also started exploring data science on my own, completing online courses through Google and Coursera. I love the challenge of understanding complex systems and using data to create better solutions.

But pursuing this path away from home comes with challenges. My parents both work in the nonprofit sector, and while they’ve always supported me, we can’t fully cover the costs of living and studying in another city. That’s why I’m grateful for the opportunity to apply to the Monarch Effect Foundation.

With their support, I’ll be able to continue doing what I love—learning, building, and leading—while finding ways to give back to my community through the skills I gain.

STORY

Summer 2025

Summer came and went away very quickly! After my first semester in college, summer dropped in with perfect timing. Beach days, sunshine in Cabo, and just an overall wonderful time. It’s funny how I was never that much of a beach guy, but going back to Cabo and taking my dog Billy to swim became a daily joy for me!

Summer also gave me the chance to engage a bit more with my field of study, reading the latest AI news, trying out different models, and listening to podcasts to get a clearer picture of how everything works. Honestly, that was something I was thrilled to do, since during the semester with all the homework and activities I didn’t really give myself much time to stop, think, and process. So I’d definitely say summer was both an amazing opportunity to share time with friends and family, and also the perfect moment to keep expanding my curiosity for AI in my own way.

Now that I’ve been back in college for a couple of weeks, I can say with full confidence that everything is starting to look much clearer. I just had a math class on ROC; a great way to evaluate AI models, and it was probably the most interesting class I’ve had so far in college, maybe because I actually understood every single word the professor said!

On top of that, I’ve already started meeting new people here in Guadalajara. One of my friends introduced me to his group, and I honestly can’t believe how wonderful they are. I’m kinda starting to feel at home here in Guadalajara.

MEF has also really helped me feel more motivated not just to study, but also to build relationships and use my free time to keep learning. The foundation doesn’t just represent a way for me to fulfill my dreams and follow my career path, but also a huge source of motivation to keep going with all my heart.

June 2025

Back to Cabo! June was a very emotional month, as I finally got to return to Cabo after my first semester of college! Gladly I achieved a GPA of 95.5/100 which, even though it is great, I am determined to get closer to a 100 next semester. While May was crazy in its own way; with all the final tests and projects presentations, June was a beautiful and peaceful month that was dedicated entirely to spending time with my family and friends here in Cabo. I also got the news I would become a MEF ambassador! So friends, family, peace and wonderful news was everything June was about.