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From Impossible to Turning the Tassel

Isabel

Isabel Sofia Lopez, like most students, chose to attend WMU for a variety of good reasons. 

“I instantly fell in love with the campus, diversity, and of course, the long list of engineering programs that Western had to offer.” Isabel said the moment she learned about what paper engineering entailed from an advisor was one of the most formative experiences she’s had at WMU. The decision to pursue the major has been rewarding; in addition to her Co-Op, Isabel has completed three internships. 

Aside from gaining practical experience outside of the classroom, Isabel is an incredibly involved student. She is a member of TAPPI Ts’ai Lun, which encourages the professional development of students preparing for careers in the pulp and paper industry at WMU; president of Sigma Lambda Gamma sorority; a member of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers; a member of the WMU Latino Student Alliance; and also acts as president of Ballet Folklorico.

It is scholarship support that Isabel says has allowed her to get involved on campus, in addition to spending more time with her children and studying, and less time working. Bronco

“It feels like a huge relief because as a single mother of two, that is taking care of a handicapped mother, trying to finish school felt impossible, but now with financial help I am finally graduating in Spring 2023.”

In her spare time, Isabel loves spending time with her 3-year-old and 11-month-old, playing her accordion and saxophone, and dancing folklorico. She also loves CrossFit, skateboarding, and basketball.