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Major: Civil Engineering

College of Engineering

Activities: American Society of Civil Engineers; Timber Strong Design Build Team; long distance running; playing piano 

Elaine grew up inspired by her grandparents, who immigrated from the Philippines and Egypt and built new lives through perseverance, humility and a deep commitment to helping others. They taught her that “resilience means using challenges as a chance to grow stronger and lift others up,” a lesson that has shaped her character and ambitions. In high school, an architecture class sparked her interest in combining creativity, math and service, a discovery that led her to pursue civil engineering at Cal Poly Pomona. She has served as a board member for the American Society of Civil Engineers, structural lead for the Timber Strong Design Build Team, and now technical events coordinator for the Pacific Southwest Symposium, bringing together students and industry professionals from across the region. As the oldest of six children, she is devoted to leading by example, including her volunteer work as a pianist for her local church and as a coach for Glendora High School’s Ethics Bowl team. Elaine hopes to become a licensed structural engineer, designing projects that protect and strengthen communities.