Navarro_Connor
Class of 2029
Hometown
Hillsboro, Oregon
Navarro_Connor

Extracurricular Activities

Cross Country, Track and Field, club track, piano, and volunteering.

A Little Bit About Me

I’m a competitive distance runner and incoming electrical engineering student who’s always been driven by challenges—on the track and in the classroom. I’ve run cross country and track all four years of high school, and I’m passionate about engineering because it pushes me to think creatively and solve real problems. My dad, who was also an engineer, inspired me to pursue this path. Outside of running and academics, I play piano and enjoy giving back through volunteering. I’m excited to bring that same drive and curiosity to OIT.

Why I Chose Oregon Tech and My Major

I chose Oregon Tech because it was one of the few schools that aligned with both my academic and athletic goals. It offered strong programs in engineering while still providing the opportunity to compete in cross country and track—something that’s deeply important to me. It felt like the right place to grow both personally and professionally.

My Influential Professors

One of my most influential mentors was my high school track coach, who also happened to be my programming professor. He shaped me both as an athlete and a student, pushing me to grow in discipline, resilience, and intellectual curiosity. His dual role helped me connect the mindset of training with the mindset of problem-solving—something I now carry into engineering.

My Greatest Learning Experience At Oregon Tech

As a freshman, one of my greatest learning experiences came from my time as a high school athlete balancing academics and cross country/track. I learned discipline, time management, and perseverance—skills I now bring to my studies in electrical engineering at OIT.

My Plans After Graduation

After graduating, I plan to pursue a career in engineering, following in the footsteps of my late father who inspired my interest in the field. At the same time, I want to continue my running journey as a personal passion, keeping that part of my identity alive beyond competition.