Luisangel Tejada ’27

Childhood Curiosity Becomes a Clear Career Path for CETA Student

Luisangel Tejada ’27

Despite difficult challenges, Luisangel Tejada ’27 is inspired to pay it forward for future UHart students.

From a young age, Luisangel Tejada ’27 has been captivated by the mysteries of space. His fascination took flight thanks to his late father, who introduced him to the simple joy of building paper airplanes—a moment that ignited a lifelong passion for aerospace and aerodynamics. “I vividly remember my dad teaching me how to fold a paper airplane,” Luisangel reflects. “After that first flight, I was determined to make it soar longer and straighter.” This childhood curiosity has blossomed into a clear career path as he studies aerospace engineering at the University of Hartford.

Driven by his dream of working for NASA, Luisangel excels in both his demanding academic pursuits and his leadership roles. As secretary of the Outdoors and Adventure Club, he has come to appreciate UHart’s sense of community and balance—values he cherishes deeply. While UHart was the only university near his home offering an aerospace engineering degree, the campus culture and diversity of its community played a significant role in his decision. “Everywhere I go on campus, there’s a sense of interconnectedness that’s truly inspiring.”

 

 

However, Luisangel has faced significant emotional challenges, particularly following the recent loss of his father. The weight of losing a parent is heavy, and now the financial responsibilities rest solely on his mother. “This scholarship has been a blessing,” he shares with heartfelt sincerity, referring to the Sidney and Beatrice Greenberg, Birken Manufacturing Company Endowed Memorial Scholarship. “It has lifted a huge burden off my shoulders, allowing me to concentrate on my education instead of worrying about how to make ends meet.” His experiences have imparted valuable life lessons, especially regarding the importance of mental health. “I’m a perfectionist. If I don’t have a plan, I start to panic,” he admits. “But during my time here, I’ve learned to be gentler with myself. I’m prioritizing my mental health and realizing it’s okay to ask for help.”

Receiving this scholarship has inspired Luisangel to pay it forward one day. “I hope to succeed in my career and give back to students who are working hard, just like I am,” he says. “This scholarship isn’t just about financial support; it’s about paving the way for a future where I can help others too.” He adds, “This scholarship means more than words can express. It has allowed me to focus on my goals and build a future where I hope to give back in the same way.” With the resources and opportunities provided to him at UHart, Luisangel is confident that his dreams are well within reach.