Editor: What are you currently studying?
Heriberto: Initially, I wanted to major in mechanical engineering and physics, but when I learned that the programming of a robot is the most intricate part of robotics, I realized how a computer science major could help me pursue my passion.
I love robotics. It jump-starts my mind. Since I was a sophomore in high school, I've been building robots from the ground up. I started out taking apart household appliances and putting them back together. I eventually started doing the same thing with radio controlled kit cars, which contain highly engineered components to maximize strength, maneuverability, and speed. At this point, I started working on autonomous robotics, the building of robots that move on their own based on sensors and a microcontroller. This was the start of my love for robotics.
When I finally reached college, I formed a bond with other students who had an interest in robotics. I took the lead and decided that we should start building robots together. And we did.
Editor: What inspired you to get into robotics?
Heriberto: Well, in high school my brother asked me to enter a national robotics contest that required you to build a robot from the ground up. My brother was determined to get me to enter! He convinced me that I had the knowledge and skill to win the contest. His belief in me gave me the confidence to give it a shot.
With some basic materials from Home Depot, I built my first robot. I even had to borrow a drill from a friend. Even though I didn't win my sophomore year, I eventually placed second in the nationwide competition during my senior year.
To tell you the truth though, winning the competition isn't what inspired me to pursue robotics. Instead it was the experience itself. I remember the feeling of putting together a functioning robot for the first time, and I knew that I had to make a career out of it.
Entering these competitions in high school also helped me win scholarships for college. This year alone I have been awarded the NASA MUST Scholarship; a Google Scholarship through the Hispanic College Fund; a scholarship from the Hispanic Scholarship Fund, sponsored by General Electric; a scholarship from Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, sponsored by Lockheed Martin; and a local scholarship distributed by South Texas Academic Rising Scholars (STARS).
Editor: Did you have any role models who helped you get to where you are today?
Heriberto: My parents are definitely my role models. Their work ethic is so strong and they've always made sure I knew they work as a team.
When it came to me pursuing my dream of robotics, my parents supported me in the most crucial way possible. They let me convert our garage at home into a robotics workshop where I could build all my robots. Having a space to work is what has allowed me to get serious about robotics.
In order to serve as a role model myself, I currently mentor high school students who are interested in robotics.
Editor: Wow, your parents really have supported your dream! So what are your plans after graduating college?
Heriberto: I would like to pursue a Ph.D. in robotics at the University of Southern California (USC), the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), or Carnegie Mellon.
After that, my goal is to work for NASA in robotics. I'll be interning for NASA this summer, so this will be the kickoff to my dream. I'd eventually like to work at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California. At JPL, autonomous robots are developed to traverse distant planets, just like the Mars Rover. These robots are considered unmanned robots.
Editor: That sounds like a great plan! Finally, what advice would you give to other students who are trying to enter your field?
Heriberto: If you want to go into robotics, don't focus on the obstacles, like thinking it's too difficult or too expensive.
With robotics, it's import to pick a starting point and, from there, learn step by step. This means having the patience to start with the building blocks and gradually working your way up to more complex theories. It's like math: take things step by step, learning all the important formulas and equations in the process.
And most important, don't be afraid to follow your dreams! I'm a living example of someone who had a big dream and, after working hard, is making it come true...and I'm having fun!
To find out more about Heriberto's robot-building adventures, visit www.valleybots.com.
