For 2023 Lewisville High School graduate Laura Oliva Cuenca, receiving the Steve Allen Memorial Scholarship and the Jose Dominguez Memorial Scholarship signified the beginning of a self-discovery journey. After graduating, she started her engineering studies at the University of Texas at Dallas, where she immersed herself in student organizations and hands-on projects. That early involvement opened doors she never expected and ultimately helped her discover her passion and curiosity in electrical engineering.
Originally a computer engineering major, Laura quickly realized her interests leaned more toward hardware and hands-on problem-solving.
“I found myself more interested in the hardware aspect of my major and wanted to pursue more knowledge than what computer engineering offered. This led me to change my major to electrical engineering in the fall semester of my sophomore year,” she said, “I had always been interested in this area of engineering and wanted to pursue a career that allowed me to do hands-on work while still providing flexibility, given that electrical engineering is a very broad and applicable field.”
In the fall of 2024, Laura attended the Great Minds in STEM conference in Fort Worth, a networking and career development event that resulted in the opportunity of a lifetime.
“One of the first booths I walked up to at the career fair was NASA, not expecting anything from it but more so to gain practice speaking with employers,” she said, “I met a team of amazing engineers and scientists that took me on as an intern, and thanks to them I was able to have a wonderful experience as an electrical test engineering intern at NASA's Glenn Research Center in Ohio.”
During those six months Laura worked alongside researchers and engineers who inspired and challenged her. As an intern at the Icing Research Tunnel, she explored the world of aerospace research and gained experience working in aircraft safety and testing of fuel cells, a form of renewable energy designed to power lunar systems.
“I was able to make an impact on the technological and scientific advancements in the aerospace field,” said Laura.
Looking back, Cuenca recalls the emotional moment when she learned she had been awarded an LEF scholarship, a turning point she remembers with overwhelming joy.
“When I found out I had been given the LEF scholarships, I was in shock, I could not believe I was fortunate enough to receive the awards. I remember how excited I was when I received the email informing me of the results that I even cried when telling my parents of this achievement,” she said. “Above all, I felt very grateful to have even had the opportunity to apply to these scholarships and be considered for these awards.”
The financial support eased the burden of higher education and gave her the freedom to work on projects and join clubs, allowing her to gain the experience that would later open doors to internships, including the one to NASA.
As a recipient of a LEF scholarship, she reflects on her time in LISD, and expresses a deep gratitude for the teachers, counselors, and programs that prepared her for college.
“Through college prep programs like AVID and the immense guidance from my teachers and counselors, my transition from high school to college was seamless,” she said. “Thanks to their support, I was prepared for this new chapter in my life and knew that if I ever needed help, there was always a community I could count on.”
Her advice to current LISD students is simple: pursue your interests, take risks and surround yourself with a great support system. Laura’s story is a testament to what can happen when hard work meets opportunity and what’s possible when a community invests in its students and educators.
“There is a lot of potential in these communities that can sometimes go unseen due to a lack of resources. I think everyone should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams no matter their economic backgrounds. Through organizations like LEF and their dedication to a more accessible and public education, many students like myself have been able to achieve what they never imagined they could.”
She credits the generosity of donors, including the Fernandez and Allen families, for making her achievements possible.
“I want LEF donors and supporters to know that through their contributions, they not only change lives but also make dreams come true. Had it not been for the generosity of the Fernandez and Allen family, I might not have had the opportunities I did and might not be standing where I am today, and for that I will always be grateful for,” she said, “There are many students out there that just like me, were able to pursue higher education and achieve their goals thanks to LEF and its donors.”
