During his junior year of high school, Piero Navarro took a tour of the University of Rhode Island that would lead him to apply and attend as a student. He enrolled in the College of Engineering as a mechanical engineering major with minors in mathematics and physics.

“What really caught my attention were the capstone projects. I had always been fascinated with project-based learning, and I thought what better way to step into an industry than by working on real, sponsored projects before you even graduate,” said Navarro.

As someone who was always very fascinated with the idea of making tangible products from just an idea, he fell in love with designing products in high school, especially working with computer aided design software

“I made props and gadgets from my favorite shows and as my skills grew, I was able to make more functional designs that made my life and other people’s lives a little bit easier. That sentiment and the exciting challenges that come with engineering were the driving factors in my decision,” said Navarro.

Once enrolled, Navarro became an orientation leader during his first year, which connected him to people across campus in various departments and colleges. “This gave me the chance to explore areas outside the technical areas of engineering and increased confidence not only in myself but demonstrated the impact I could have on the people around me,” said Navarro. “The connections I made there and as a campus tour guide became a valuable support system filled with friends and mentors.”

That community would be invaluable when it came to writing papers early on at URI. Throughout high school, he never really enjoyed the process of putting words down on paper, which he excused by being much better at math and science. “That hurt me as I went into college,” said Navarro, stating that he struggled on assignments that relied on writing. He was able to seek assistance from professors and friends that would provide helpful feedback, not only on the writing itself, but with the entire process. “I’m much more confident now in my ability to share written information and regularly use these same abilities in my day-to-day work,” said Navarro.

Navarro also joined the URI American Society of Mechanical Engineers and found a group of people that embraced what mechanical engineering is all about; working together to build something incredible. Whether it was a pasta bridge, a hot wire cutter, or making powerful connections, he enjoyed spending time with people willing to learn from their successes and failures alike. “I’m particularly proud of this one because I’ve been a part of it since my very first moment at URI and will proudly serve the organization’s many new and familiar faces as president this upcoming year,” said Navarro.

He says that he noticed URI has a particular focus on leadership. “I truly think it’s one of the best things about this campus, because it motivates me and many others to do more than the minimum. Going out and taking chances to be better and push each other to be better as well.”

His involvement highlights the two main phrases he likes to go by—take one step at a time, and there are countless opportunities out there just waiting to be found. “These statements alone take away some of the stress and pressure to perform in a certain way, which I think have helped me maintain a clear mindset to achieve the things I need to do,” said Navarro.  As for post-graduation, he has chosen to dedicate his focus toward astronautics, so he’d like to continue with graduate school or start-ups in the space industry.

“My next goal will be to help humans touch the moon once again and extend our reach to Mars,” said Navarro, who is on track to graduate next year.