Michelle Balderama-Burgoa

Michelle Balderrama-Burgo is from Ashburn, Virginia, and is a Junior in Industrial and Systems Engineering with a minor in Business with a 3.93 GPA. Michelle says the best thing about being a Virginia Tech Engineer is being able to have endless opportunities, like how Hokie engineers can obtain internships early on in their college careers, participate in undergraduate research, and be mentored by professors and upperclassmen to then be mentors to others. Her favorite part about the ISE department is that they can attend social events with the professors and department heads and provide feedback on classes and programs. 

When Michelle was in middle school, she dreamt about traveling the world. She mostly dreamt about traveling to tropical areas, but as she has grown, she has a curiosity to explore much more. Now that she is at Virginia Tech, she dreams about one day owning her own business that helps others in some way. Although she is not sure what that business will be, she is sure that she will figure it out as she progresses through her journey. If she could change one thing, she would emphasize the importance of checking in with yourself, she believes that having good mental health and taking care of yourself can take you a long way whether it be with your academics or organization involvements. 

Michelle shared that one of her role models is her mentor and Virginia Tech Alum, Gina Vandivier. She met Gina during her freshman year of college and was inspired by her. Michelle said, “Gina was and continues to be an active leader in the Latinx community at Virginia Tech. Aside from being involved in nearly everything VT has to offer, she also graduated summa cum laude and is the definition of perseverance. I am so grateful to be mentored by her!”

Michelle currently serves as a Hokie Ambassador for Virginia Tech, giving tours to visiting families. Her favorite cartoon character is Tinker Bell, because of her curiosity and determination.