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Student Stories

Read about our C3 students' personal and professional journeys at NC State to learn how we embrace the NC State Think and Do attitude.

Brenda Lozano ‘21

Horticultural Science Intern

Doing research on blueberry growing practices

“I’ve always been interested in agriculture. I like everything about it. But it was taking up this internship that really changed my perspective on farming. There’s so much positivity you can do for society and to the environment. This internship made me more passionate about what I can do for the world.”



Ben Falero ‘22

College of Natural Resources IT Department Intern

B.S. Electrical Engineering

This internship opportunity was a perfect transition point for me. It gave me hands-on experience, so I was able to apply and land a part-time position with the Technology Department upon graduating. I could not have done it without the support from the C3 staff who encouraged me to apply in the first place.



Cora Vaughan

C3 Communication Intern

Pursuing major in Interpersonal, Organizational & Rhetorical Communication

“As a C3 student myself, I take pride in contributing to C3’s mission to making higher education more accessible to students in North Carolina. I’ve gotten to experience how amazing the C3 team is behind the scenes, and they have helped me develop invaluable skills for my career along the way.”



Isabella Rubio

Pre-veterinary Student

“It’s been my dream since I was very young to be a veterinarian. I am a first-generation college student, so I have had to figure out a lot of stuff on my own. It has been a really difficult and stressful time, but it’s also been rewarding because I get to see how far I have come. The support from my boyfriend, my pets, my high school teachers, and family have made everything bearable and motivates me to keep going.”



Orlando Valle-Casarrubias

Business Management

One of the biggest challenges that I have faced is being a first-generation college student. Facing the challenge of not being able to find an immediate mentor to help navigate me through this college experience has been difficult at time but very rewarding. The C3 staff and ambassadors are very welcoming and highlight NC State’s core values to excel in innovation, education, and discovery for the greater good. I haven’t regretted my decision in joining the C3 program.”