Questionnaire & Family Information · students. Conducted a laboratory project to identify nostril bacteria via the sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene sequence. Name of Activity or Organization

Questionnaire & Family Information

QuestionnairePlease Note: The information below has been populated from your Phase 1 application and thus you are not able to make edits.Please Note: The information below has been populated from your Phase 1 application and thus you are not able to make edits.

First Name:

Viviana

Middle Name:

Last Name:

Rivera

Preferred Name (Nickname):

Viviana

Sex:

Female

Will you be the first person in your immediate family (parent or siblings) to attend college (4-yearcollege, 2-year college, technical school, or trade school)?

No

Will you be the first person in your immediate family (parent or siblings) to graduate college (4-yearcollege, 2-year college, technical school, or trade school)?

No

High School:

541045 - Escuela Secundaria Especializada en CIMATEC, Caguas, PR, 00725

FamilyParent Marital Status:

Married

Parent/Guardian #1 First Name:

Wanda

Parent/Guardian #1 Last Name:

Martínez

Parent/Guardian #1 Highest Education:

Bachelors Degree

Parent/Guardian #1 Occupation/Title:

software analyst

Your Parent/Guardian #1 is:

Employed part time

Parent/Guardian #2 First Name:

Carlos

Parent/Guardian #2 Last Name:

Rivera

Parent/Guardian #2 Highest Education:

Bachelors Degree

Parent/Guardian #2 Occupation/Title:

plant manager

Your Parent/Guardian #2 is:

Employed Full Time

Do you live with both Parents/Guardians?

Yes

How many languages do you speak? You may report up to 5 languages you speak at a conversationallevel. Enter the total number of languages first, then each language.

2

Primary Language:

Spanish

Language 2:

English

Language spoken in the home:

Spanish

Number of Siblings?If none, enter 0

1

Ages:All in the same field, separated by comma

19

How would you describe your community from this list?

Other

Community Size:

< 1,000

School & Community Activities

School-Related Activities

List up to six of your school-related activities in the section below in order of importance to you (meaning Activity 1 is most important of thesubmissions). Community-related, paid or unpaid employment, and volunteer/service activities are submitted in another section. Yourstatement of impact should briefly describe (75 words or fewer) the accomplishments or outcomes of your leadership, service, or involvementin each activity or organization.

Name of Activity or Organization #1

LaunchX Club (Entrepreneurship)

Highest Position Held

Co-founder/Education Lead

Grades of Participation

11th, 12th

Awards Received

Regional Semifinalist in Elevator Pitch Competition

Statement of Impact

Founded the school’s first Entrepreneurship Club along with 4 other students. Received Honorable Mention in pitch competition in our firstyear by designing a company based on environmental sustainability that produces biodiesel with used cooking oil and makes it accessible tothe community of Puerto Rico. Promoted the entrepreneurial spirit throughout my school and expanded the club to welcome in 10 morestudents. Made alliances with important entrepreneurs and gained teamwork, improvisational, and leadership skills.


CIMATEC Marching/Concert Band


Codirector and First flute


9th, 10th, 11th, 12th

Awards Received

4th place in Regional Band CompetitionMedal for distinction in 9th grade graduation

Statement of Impact

Became first flute and leader of the flute section during my first year. Took responsibility over all communications with band members andassisted the director in the planning of the music and rehearsals. Organized the re-conceptualization and restructuring of the band in 2017along with all the members of the executive committee. Gained not only musical knowledge, but also commitment, discipline, teamwork, andorganizational skills.


National Honor Society/ National Junior Honor Society


Secretary of Amendments Committee/NJHS President


9th, 10th, 11th, 12th

Awards Received

2018 NHS Intellectual Competitions- 1st place in Science2016-15 NJHSPR Syrux Chapter Intellectual Competitions1st place in All-around category (2016)3rd place English Achievement Award (2015)

Statement of Impact

As Secretary of the Committee of Amendments to the Constitution, evaluated amendments to the chapter’s constitution for viability,applicability, and alignment with the insular constitution. Presented a modified Constitution approved by the chapter.As the NJHS president, improved the chapter’s organization and communication, resulting in a higher participation rate in all events andbetter performance during competitions.As the Creativity Committee Leader, lead the planning of every creative project to contribute to the chapter’s image.


Biotechnology Club


Leading member


11th, 12th

Awards Received

Statement of Impact

Initiated discussions of ethical aspects of technological advances and learned about industrial laboratory techniques such as: aseptictechniques, fermentation, bacteria cultivation, PCR, and gel electrophoresis. Applied these techniques with an entrepreneurship approach,creating products, such as cheese and kombucha, and marketing them to sell to the public.


Annual Scientific Investigation (Metropolitan Science Fair of Puerto Rico)


Lead Investigator


9th, 10th, 11th, 12th

Awards Received

2015-17 CIMATEC Science Fair -3rd place Botanical Science, 1st place in General Science category & Highest scoring middle school project2014-15 Metropolitan Science Fair Puerto Rico- 3rd place General Science; 2nd place Behavioral Science

Statement of Impact

Consistently developed various scientific investigations during the school year. Collaborated with peers, reached out to professional scientists,and gained a better understanding of the scientific method and its endless applications. Focused on environmental topics such as pesticidesand fertilizers. Produced successful presentations of findings and demonstrated them in regional science fair competitions. Obtainednetworking and presentation skills and an introduction to the scientific community of research and investigation.


Robotics Club


Strategist


9th

Awards Received

Statement of Impact

Participated in regional competitions while enhancing my problem-solving abilities and teamwork skills. Contributed to my team with strategicgame plans along with the documentation of our progress through visual representations and descriptions of our various attempts and finaldesigns. Gained knowledge in mechanics, programming, and technical writing. Worked as a mentor for new members and offered classes onall aspects of the robotics club experience, from the theory of mechanics to competition strategies.

Community Activities

List up to six of your non-school-related activities in the section below, ranking the activities in order of importance to you (meaning Activity 1is most important of the submissions). Employment/internship and volunteer/service activities are submitted in another section. Yourstatement of impact should briefly describe (75 words or fewer) the accomplishments or outcomes of your leadership, service, or involvementin each activity or organization.


MIT's Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES)


alumn


11th

Awards Received

William H. Ramsey Award

Statement of Impact

Selected as one of 70 students out of 2,100 applicants and recognized with the program’s highest award. Completed 6 weeks at MIT in anacademic immersion program, taking 5 classes: Calculus, Physics, Biochemistry, Genomics, and Humanities. Demonstrated high academicperformance in all areas, proved leadership in program activities and assignments, and willingly collaborated with and assisted otherstudents. Conducted a laboratory project to identify nostril bacteria via the sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene sequence.


Ballet Training


Dancer on pointe


9th, 10th, 11th, 12th

Awards Received

Statement of Impact

Partook in classical ballet training (pointe work) twice a week, with formal recitals every other year. Reinforced my discipline, dedication, andlove for dancing. Developed an appreciation for the arts as a creative outlet to explore my artistic and expressive self.


TECHNOLOchicas Activities


Ambassador


11th, 12th

Awards Received

Sponsorship for Hello Girl PRInvitation to become a TECHNOLOchicas ambassador

Statement of Impact

Engaged in the various activities around the island to promote female participation in technology-related fields. Developed a passion forminority outreach and contributed to the formation of a TECHNOLOchicas community in Puerto Rico. Became an ambassador to continueinspiring Latinas to go into Technology. Delivered presentations communicating my experience as a minority in STEAM and my work inoutreach to hopefully encourage Puerto Rican women to feel empowered to do the same.


National Center for Women in Information Technology (NCWIT)


Affiliate


10th, 11th, 12th

Awards Received

2018 NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing- Puerto Rico & US Virgin Islands Affiliate Winner2018 Partnership with AspireIT2017 NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing- Puerto Rico & US Virgin Islands Affiliate Honorable Mention

Statement of Impact

Chosen as an Aspirations in Computing award recipient for my demonstrated interest and achievements in computing as well as provenleadership ability and strong academic performance. Became part of a long-term community for female technologists and engaged inoutreach both inside and outside my school. Encouraged girls from my school to become part of this community and collaborated withAspireIT, a division of NCWIT to create a computing summer program for girls in my area.


Summer @ Brown Pre-College Program


10th

Awards Received

Statement of Impact

Completed a college-level course on Biomedical Informatics and Data Science for Biomedicine and Health Care. Gained understanding in theuse of biomedical and health data to support research. Learned how to program in the Julia programming language and in MySQL as well ashow to research biological based databases like PubMed, GenBank, CDC, and EMRbots. Conducted a project to find the correlation betweenthe TCF7L2 gene- a gene linked to type-2 diabetes- and Hispanic ethnicity.


Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY)


9th

Awards Received

Statement of Impact

Completed “Logic: Principles of Reasoning”, a college-level logic course covering both informal and formal patterns of reasoning. Heightenedmy critical thinking and analytical skills through the use of mathematical concepts to evaluate arguments. Collaborated with an inspiringcommunity of like-minded and creative students.

School Honors & Awards

Awards, Honors, Special Skills, or Talents (school- or non-school related)

List any awards/honors received for the school activities indicated in the items above AND for any activitiesoutside of school for which you have recognition. Please list an award only once. Awards for communityservice or volunteer activities will be submitted in the next section.Choose the highest level of accomplishment ( Local, State, Regional, National/InternationalLocal, State, Regional, National/International) for each award. Examples of awards/honors areGood Citizen Award, Scholastic Athlete Award, Key Club Governor, HOBY Delegate, Girls/Boys State Delegate, All-State Choir, and All-StateFootball. Special skills or talents might include equestrian champion, non-school music accomplishments, community theatre, etc.

How many would you like to add, up to 10?Enter a number between 1 and 10

10

Award 1:

William H. Ramsey Award (MITES)

Highest Level of Accomplishment

National/International

Award 2:

2018-19 National Hispanic Scholar



Award 3:

2018 American Chemistry Society- Individual Olympiad (3rd)


State

Award 4:

2018 NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing- Puerto Rico & US Virgin Islands- Affiliate Winner


Award 5:

2017 NCWIT Award for Aspirations in Computing- Puerto Rico & US Virgin Islands- Affiliate Honorable Mention


Regional

Award 6:

2017 STEM VOICETM Video Competition- National High School Winner



Award 7:

Metropolitan Science Fair Puerto Rico (2nd and 3rd place)


State

Award 8:

NHS Intellectual Competitions 2018- 1st place in Science


State

Award 9:

CIMATEC special recognition award- valedictorian and exemplary student


Local

Award 10:

LaunchX Clubs Honorable Mention in Entrepreneurship Competition (Semifinals)


State

Volunteer & Employment Activities

Volunteer/Service Activities

List up to six of your volunteer/service activities in the section below, ranking the activities in order of importance to you (meaning Activity 1 ismost important of the submissions). Your statement of impact should briefly describe (75 words or fewer) the accomplishments or outcomesof your leadership, service, or involvement in each activity or organization.

Name of Activity #1

Hello Girl PR- Programming workshop for girls


AspireIT Program Leader


11th, 12th

Awards Received

AspireIT sponsorship (National Center for Women in Information Technology-NCWIT)

Statement of Impact

Partnered with AspireIT, a program from NCWIT, and INTECO, a regional non-profit organization, to design a week-long computing summerprogram for girls in 4th to 6th grade enrolled in public schools that do not have technology readily available. Introduced them to Scratchwhere they created a final project with a focus on a societal issue such as recycling or bullying. Built a supportive community and increasedthe participation of girls in programming in Puerto Rico.

Name of Activity #2

STEAM Outreach Program for girls


Program co-leader


11th

Awards Received

Local newspaper recognition

Statement of Impact

Lead a week-long summer program for girls in 4th to 6th grade enrolled in public schools to motivate them to participate in the opportunitiesSTEAM offers. Introduced the girls to new concepts and an interactive style of learning. The workshops included: robotic engineering,Microsoft Office, bacterial cultivation laboratories, mathematical problems, and music. Wrote letters to the parents of the 3 most outstandinggirls recognizing their potential and encouraging them to apply to my school, CIMATEC.

Name of Activity #3

STEAM for Culebra


Program co-leader


11th

Awards Received

Local newspaper recognition

Statement of Impact

Partnered with “La Fundación de Culebra”, a nonprofit organization that focuses on bringing new opportunities to the island of Culebra, tooffer the kids an interactive workshop. Focused on Engineering, Mathematics, Programming, and Science as the kids from Culebra do nothave much exposure to STEAM courses. Workshops included: robotic engineering, programming, chemical reactions, mathematical problems,and music. Successfully provided new learning opportunities to an underprivileged community and contributed to the progress of Culebra.

Name of Activity #4

STEAM Introduction for Disadvantaged Children


Program Leader


11th

Awards Received

Statement of Impact

Prepared a dynamic demonstration to introduce the children from Hogar San Antonio to STEAM fields including different chemical reactions,robotic engineering, and incorporating art into design ideas. Worked with kids with various disorders such as ADHD and autism and practicedpatience and empathy to create a welcoming learning environment. Inspired excitement in the kids towards educational topics by making theactivity dynamic and fun.

Name of Activity #5

STEM Workshop for Abused Children


Robotics Lead


10th

Awards Received

Statement of Impact

Delivered a robotics workshop for a group of boys from Hogar San Agustín del Coquí, a home for abused children who have been removedfrom their families, as part of an NHS initiative. Collaborated with other chapter members to interact with the kids and introduce them torobotics. Witnessed the kid’s enthusiasm towards designing, building, and driving their own creations.

Name of Activity #6

Math Tutoring for kids recommended by the social worker


Primary tutor


10th, 11th

Awards Received

Statement of Impact

Provided math tutoring to a 7th grade student with difficulties identified by the school’s social worker. Voluntarily assisted him with mathclasswork twice a week for 2 hours during after-school hours. Impacted his performance by providing a more personal learning experienceresulting in a stronger execution in his math courses.

Employment (including internships)

List up to six of your employment and/or internships (paid or unpaid) in the section below, ranking the activities in order of importance to you(meaning Activity 1 is most important of the submissions). Volunteer/service activities should be submitted in another section of thisapplication.

Title/Name of Role #1

Math Tutor

Business/Organization Served

Teaching Square

Month Started

August

Year Started

2018

Month Ended

Current

Year Ended

Current

Description of responsibilities

Every Thursday from 4-6 pm: Assist approximately 15 students with their math homework and help with the concepts they struggle with themost. Look for additional work and implement different teaching strategies. Improve their performance by offering the kids differentalternatives than what they experience in the classroom. Topics include: Pre-Algebra, Algebra, Algebra II, Geometry, and Trigonometry.



Month Started

Year Started

Month Ended

Year Ended




Month Started

Year Started

Month Ended

Year Ended




Month Started

Year Started

Month Ended

Year Ended




Month Started

Year Started

Month Ended

Year Ended




Month Started

Year Started

Month Ended

Year Ended


Community Honors & Awards

Community Activities

The activities in this part of the application are to include only those community volunteer or internship activities for which you did NOTreceive payment. Information about any paid employment is to be reported in the Employment Information section of the application.

Community Service / Volunteer Activities

Enter the total number of hours you have committed to active volunteering in grades 9-12. For 12th gradeenter an estimated number of hours through first semester.Grade 9

55

Grade 10

110

Grade 11

95

Grade 12

20

Community Service (Volunteer) Groups, Clubs, and Organization Awards andHonors. List any awards/ honors received each year for community service(volunteer) clubs/organization activities indicated in the items above.

For this section, you will list the award then check the box that corresponds with the grade in which the awardwas won.Please indicate the total number of awards or honors (up to 10) received for work with CommunityService (Volunteer) Groups, Clubs, and OrganizationsEnter a number between 1 and 10

2

Award/Honor 1

AspireIT Leader- top scoring leadership writing/ approved partnership

Grade Selection

Grade 11

Award/Honor 2

Newspaper recognition for work with kids K-12 from Culebra in STEAM

Grade Selection

Grade 11

Essays & Short Responses

Essays and Short Responses

The following three questions are short responses to be answered in 50 words or fewer.

What is the most significant challenge that society faces today?

Looking around a public bus, various languages and religions coexist but hesitate to interact because society lacks empathy towards differentviewpoints. Judgement comes easily when we do not realize the similarities in our values. Education on controversial topics is consistentlyavoided; without respect and understanding, differing cultures will forever collide.

Coke Scholars will be granted an extra hour in each day. What will you do with yours?

Devoting an hour to educate myself through various media, such as the “Middle Ground” video series: debates between opposing positionslike Feminist vs. Non-feminist or peace-activist vs. war-veteran, represents a way to feed my intellect and inspires me to promote the open-minded conversations I believe my community should be having.

You are teaching a college course – what is it called?

“Becoming a professional learner: the art of free thinking” this course would focus on incorporating the critical thinking of research and thequest for solutions of entrepreneurship to encourage my students to find academic passion in every learning environment. No prerequisites,just an open mind and deep curiosity.

The following three questions are to be answered in 300 words or fewer.

If you could participate in only one of the activities you have listed on this application, which onewould you keep and why?

Last year I had the privilege to cofound the first entrepreneurship club at my school with the help of LaunchX Clubs, an organization thatallows high school students to develop real companies. This club has allowed me to grow as person and has shaped my values, helping megain important life skills like teamwork, perseverance, and leadership. Throughout the multiple brainstorming sessions, meetings, andworkshops I learned that improvising keeps you agile; no matter the context. Allowing yourself to be open to new opportunities andwelcoming every idea, no matter how ambitious it might be, allows confidence and happiness to grow. I’ve learned not to say “no” too quickly;being spontaneous is refreshing. Working with my teammates, bouncing ideas off each other, and valuing our different perspectives, has ledme to realize that creative diversity is powerful and gives way for amazing ideas to be born. My work within this organization, team, andcompany not only benefits me, but my community. By putting other people’s needs in mind, I have gained a new outlook on how to approachproblems and help others. Last year, me and my teammates focused on producing biodiesel from used cooking oil to aid in the environmentalsustainability of Puerto Rico. We had the chance to get feedback from successful entrepreneurs on the island, form alliances with importantcompanies, and even meet with a potential customer. This was not easy, but our motivation was stronger than any “no” we encountered. This activity has contributed greatly to who I am and who I want to become. I appreciate the creativity that I discovered in entrepreneurship. Ithas given me the ability to look at the world differently; innovative ideas come to mind instantly, my problem-solving skills are heightened,and my sense of community is grounded.

If you could change one thing about your high school experience, what would it be and why?

Whenever we reach the top of a mountain, a new horizon is suddenly visible, and we become aware of the many more mountains that awaitus. Throughout high school, I mainly focused on the first climb. In a school without an advanced curriculum, where only three AP courses were available to challenge its students, I chose not to focus onwhat I was lacking. I gave my all to succeed and surpass the requirements in my classes, had the skills necessary to overcome themconsistently yet felt that I was missing something. However, it never occurred to me, that if I already mastered the skills I was taught at school, why not aspire for more? When I finallyrationalized that I was able to achieve further than what I was doing, I recognized my potential to explore and thrive beyond the standardeducation I was given. MIT’s Minority Introduction to Engineering and Science summer program introduced me to an environment that balanced highly rigorousacademic requirements with a supportive and stimulating community. It gave me the confirmation that I do not want to be the smartestperson in the room; I never truly did. My hunger to learn is quenched while surrounded by inspiring people, continuously growing from everyinteraction. Looking back, if I had externalized my capacities sooner, I could have pursued different alternatives outside of the availablecurriculum, like online courses or enrollment in a college class to satisfy my hunger for a challenging education experience during the schoolyear. Now that I am about to embark on my college experience, I am thankful to have a new understanding and a deeper perspective of myself andmy abilities. When I am faced with many more mountains, I will know that I have what it takes to keep climbing.

Choose a community to which you belong and describe how you have contributed to shaping orimproving it.

As I sat in a circle surrounded by 20 nine to eleven-year-old girls who had just formed their own community, I confirmed my passion forhelping people discover what they are capable of learning. I watched as these girls from four different public schools, who had just spent aweek programming through Scratch, flourished in STEAM because of the outreach program I created. The progress they made in such littletime was unbelievable and inspiring. Young Latinas in Puerto Rico are constantly a minority in STEAM. As part of this minority community, I knew I wanted to contribute towardsdecreasing this gap for girls. When I started organizing Hello Girl PR, it never crossed my mind that I would feel such a sense of fulfillmentfrom leading this project. It has long transcended from teaching girls basic programming skills. It has helped them build a support system andgain confidence in their abilities while feeding their curiosities. When I remember every time I heard an “Aha!” moment or saw the look on their faces when they said, “It’s working, it’s moving!” aftercompleting a game, I think of how some didn’t know how to use a computer mouse before enrolling in the program. I am grateful to have hadthe chance to change how those girls approached challenges by providing them the resources to optimize their potential and encouragingthem to continue spreading their newly acquired knowledge to their homes and schools. This beautiful and humbling experience allowed meto help those girls imagine a future beyond what they thought possible; I would love to continue this initiative throughout my professional lifeas it provides a platform to directly inspire others. Since then, I have become a TECHNOLOchicas ambassador on a journey towards becominga role model to young Latinas.

Transcript & Secondary School Report

Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation

Questions can be submitted to [email protected]. Please include your name, the applicant's name and your question.

Transcript and Secondary School ReportPlease submit a transcript and the requested secondary school information for this student by Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018. OPTIONAL: You mayalso upload a school profile at the bottom of this page, if available.

School InfoHigh School:

Escuela Secundaria Especializada en Ciencias, Matemáticas y Tecnología

Authorized Official’s First Name:

Eva

Authorized Official’s Last Name:

Torres

Authorized Official’s Title:

Counselor

School Type:

Other

Student BioStudent Name:

Viviana

How would you like to submit the student's class rank information?

I will submit approximate percentile rank

Approximate Percentile Ranking:

Top 1%

Curriculum Choice:

Most Rigorous

Weighted and /or Unweighted GPANumber of Recorded Semesters

6

Does your school report:

Unweighted GPA

Unweighted GPA

4.00

Unweighted Scale

4

Special Features of the CurriculumList special features of the curriculum, such as AP, IB, Gifted and Honors courses; joint/dualenrollment with college; independent study; senior project; etc.

College Board for Puerto Rico and Latin America Advanced Placement Spanish course (11th grade only)AP Chemistry (11th grade only)AP Spanish Literature and Culture (11th grade only)AP English Literature and Composition (11th grade only)

Continuing Education

If available from school profile, enter the percentage of graduates from your school who participate in the following after graduation:

Universities/Four-Year Colleges

100

Gap Year

0

Two-Year Colleges

0

Technical Institutions

0

Military

0

Work force

0

Other

0

Explain any limitations on advanced courses. (e.g. some students are not allowed to take advancedcourses Freshman year, only a limited number Sophomore year, etc.)

IN CIMATEC, advanced courses requires: a 3.50 or more GPA, a recommendation from previous teacher, and the student's interest to take thecourse. AP courses are limited to the grade level indicated above, by school facilities space and teachers availability.

UploadsHigh School Transcript (required)

Viviana Rivera's HS Transcript.pdf

School Profile (optional)

CIMATEC School Profile 2018-2019.pdf

Transcript & Secondary School Report: FileAttachments

High School Transcript (required)

Viviana Rivera's HS Transcript.pdf

School Profile (optional)

CIMATEC School Profile 2018-2019.pdf

High School Transcript (required)Viviana Rivera's HS Transcript.pdf

School Profile (optional)CIMATEC School Profile 2018-2019.pdf

STEM Specialized Secondary School

CIMATEC School Profile

2018-2019

REVISED OCTOBER 12, 2018 Page 2

SCHOOL PROFILE


(commonly known as CIMATEC)

STEM Specialized Secondary School

Betances #67 Esquina Baldorioty Caguas, Puerto Rico 00725 T: (787) 961-7191 F: (787) 961-7192 School Principal: José A. Ramírez Figueroa, Ph.D.

[email protected]

School Counselor: Eva M. Torres, LPC [email protected] [email protected] CEEB Code: 541045 Community and school information CIMATEC is a STEM specialized school originally founded by the municipality of Caguas in Puerto Rico (it was a public school) in 2008. At the present, the school is administrated by the non-profit organization called Iniciativa Tecnológica Centro Oriental (Central Eastern Technological Initiative), whereby it is a private school with public alliances. CIMATEC has 334 students in grades 7th through 12th grade. Located in front of Santiago R. Palmer recreational plaza, CIMATEC enrolls students from different socioeconomic backgrounds, being it’s focused the low and middle level income families. Students come from central east municipalities: Caguas, Cayey, Cidra, Gurabo, Naguabo, Aguas Buenas, Humacao, Juncos, Las Piedras, San Lorenzo, Yabucoa and Comerío. Typically, high academic performance

institutions are in metropolitan area (San Juan) or in distant places. CIMATEC serves as a social justice transformation entity bringing the central-east region families the opportunity to educate their children in a competitive school, accessible and closest to their homes. Hispanic is the predominant ethnicity (100%) and parent’s education level is high. The first senior class was in 2014; 38 high achievers students that are graduating from STEM programs in Puerto Rico and in the mainland. Communication between parents and faculty are through Teacherease® web service. Social Work and School Counseling services are available. CIMATEC’s specialized facilities consist of: sixteen classrooms (with projectors and electronic boards), three computer labs, one Biology/Chemistry lab, one Physics/Earth Sciences lab and a student lunch room. Each year students participate in diverse programs, internships and competitions: Universidad de Puerto Rico internships, AGMUS Student Research Development Center internships, NOAA Weather Camp, Dr. García Rinaldi Foundation medicine research, service and job shadowing program, Harland and Clarke internship program, Engineering Association Caguas Chapter career conferences, Virginia López Volunteer Center, Strategic Plan Office from Caguas Municipality Government support for the school garden, local Environmental Office conferences, Center for Hispanic Excellence UPR Medical Sciences mentorship program, Psychology Research Institute (UPRRP),

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


Héctor Solá Bezares Stadium physical education course alliance, NCWIT participation, Kinesis Foundation scholarships and programs. Domino World Championship, Chess competitions, Latin American and World Vex Robotics Competition, Puerto Rico Metropolitan Science Fair, Spanish Oratory Contest, Forensics League, Mathematics Olympiads of Puerto Rico, Mathematics Olympiads in Central America and the Caribbean, American Chemistry Society Competition,

MATHCOUNTS, and Intel International Science and Engineering Fair and CASTIC in China. CIMATEC History William Miranda Marín was Caguas Autonomous Municipality Mayor from 1997 and 2010. He understood that education, technology and entrepreneurship form the necessary combination to develop a knowledge-based economy in Puerto Rico. CIMATEC is the core of all these efforts; it was conceived to minimize exogenous factors that impede high standard education, maximize the skills of high achievement students and promote their future leadership in Puerto Rico. The expectation is that CIMATEC students will be the scientists, inventors, entrepreneurs and leaders that will work for solutions to problems, develop patents, create native business and assume leading positions. Vision CIMATEC is dynamic and unique. Its students are the central focus. A learning

atmosphere is promoted to develop their best potential. The goal is to help students to become productive men and women with character, social interest and capable to transforms society through research, experimentation and invention in the STEM field. CIMATEC is an education model for the secondary education in Puerto Rico. Mission Be a learning community with a unique atmosphere and academic excellence. Puerto Rico central east students will: demonstrate ethical values; explore the connections between science, mathematics, technology and society; maximize their talents; and develop the necessary competences to impact constantly and positively impact the changing society. Admission guidelines Prospective students should have a desire to further their education in STEM related fields. Students must have 3.5 GPA in a 4.00 scale. Also, a 3.50 GPA in Mathematics and Science is required. PIENSE I and PIENSE II standardized exams (College Board Puerto Rico) are administrated to potential CIMATEC alumni. They must live in one of the municipalities included in the Central East Technological Initiative (INTECO). Students begin in 7th grade and continue their studies in CIMATEC until 12th grade. It is unfrequently the admission of students from 8th grade and above and the readmission of students that transfer to other schools.


Educational License Consejo de Educación de Puerto Rico (A 27-39) Special recognitions and honors 2018 2nd place CASTIC (Chemistry) 3rd place CASTIC (Engineering)

4 NCWIT PR and Vi Affiliate Award Winners 1 NCWIT PR and VI Affiliate Award Honorable Mention 1 NCWIT PR and VI Affiliate Educator Award Winner 2nd place INTEL-ISEF (mathematics category) 3 National Hispanic Recognition Scholar

1 National Merit Scholar Semi-finalist 2017 4th place INTEL-ISEF environmental engineering

category 2nd place China Adolescents Science and

Technology Innovation Contest (CASTIC) 1 National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar 1 Horatio Alger Scholar NCMIT-1 winner Puerto Rico and Virgin Island and

2 runner-up 1 Bronze Medal Iberoamerican Mathematics

Olympiads in Argentina Honor Mention in International Mathematics

Olympiads 2016 4th place INTEL-ISEF physics category (robotics

and intelligent machines)

1 INTEL-ISEF Broadcom Math, Applied Science,

Technology and Engineering Rising Stars

International

3 National Hispanic Recognition Program Scholars

1 National Recognition NCWIT 1st and 3rd places XVIII Caribbean and Central America Mathematics Olympiads 1 Horatio Alger Scholar

We are raising the standard and making opportunities accessible for Puerto Ricans students. For example, only 10 schools in Puerto Rico administrate the AP Chemistry test last year. None of the Puerto Rico public schools offers AP Program and the private schools that offered it are mostly from the metropolitan area, San Juan. We are proud of our efforts to providing access, empowering and engaging Hispanic/Latino in AP Chemistry. We hope we can add other AP STEM courses in the future. AP courses for academic year 2018-2019 are the same of previous year: Chemistry, English Literature and Composition and Spanish Literature and Culture. AP is a selective enrollment program. Students apply for the courses and are selected by the administration using teacher recommendation, academic performance, PSAT/SAT scores and school resources availability. Spaces are very limited. Also, Puerto Rico Advanced Level Program/Programa de Nivel Avanzado (PNA) tests are offered: English, Spanish and Pre-Calculus. PNA is a selective enrollment program. Students apply for the courses and are selected by the school administration using teacher recommendation, their academic performance and school resources availability. Spaces are very limited. Programa de Estudiantes Talentosos (Universidad de Puerto Rico, Cayey) enables CIMATEC juniors and seniors to enroll in freshmen courses and earn college credits at local institutions of higher education. The program has a cost. Students must have a 3.40 GPA and the school counselor’s recommendation.


Grading A Excellent 90-100 4

B Very Good 80-89 3

C Average 70-79 2

D Below Average 60-69 1

F Failure 0-59 0

PASS PASS

Grade Point Average (GPA) Calculation GPA is computed using the grading points. Beginning with tenth grade all subjects are considered. A minimum of 21 credits is required for graduation. In addition, each student must complete a 40-hour community service graduation requirement at middle school and high school levels. Also, it is required 20 hours of career exploration in high school. AP® and Nivel Avanzado Puerto Rico are evaluated as the rest of the subjects. We use unweight GPA. Grades are recorded on the transcript and the GPA is computed in May. For colleges admissions outside of Puerto Rico CIMATEC calculates GPA since ninth grade. CIMATEC’s students are high achievers. Each year their GPA is above 3.50. Ninety two percent (92%) of Class 2017 obtained a GPA above 3.50 in a 4-point scale.

CIMATEC’s Class 2019 GPA distribution (N=54)*

f % Class 2018 GPA

12 22 4.00 19 35 3.75- 3.99 8 15 3.50- 3.74

14 26 3.00- 3.49 1 2 2.50- 2.99 0 0 2.00- 2.49

0 0 Less than 1.99

*From August 2015 to May 2018

Standardized test results In comparison with other students from Puerto Rico, most CIMATEC Class 2019 students performance at SAT test exceeds the benchmark (1,010) and is above Puerto Rico and overall median.

CIMATEC’s Class 2019 SAT Results

SAT

Mean scores

CIMATEC Class 2019 *

Puerto Rico

Seniors(1)

Overall Seniors

(2)

Evidence-Based Reading and Writing

575 539 544

Math 563 509 538

Total** 1138 1048 1082

*N=54/54 (1) 2017 Puerto Rico SAT Suite of Assessments Annual Report (2) 2017 Total Group SAT Suite of Assessments Annual Report


Colleges attended by CIMATEC’s graduates

from 2014 to 2018 (N=264) Puerto Rico (233)

University of Puerto Rico, Mayagüez (88)

University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras (57)

University of Puerto Rico, Cayey (49)

University of Puerto Rico, Humacao (11)

University of Puerto Rico, Bayamón (6)

Turabo University (6)

University of Sacred Heart (4)

Interamerican University, Bayamón (3)

University of Puerto Rico, Carolina (3)

Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico (3)

University of Puerto Rico, Aguadilla

Plastic Arts School of Puerto Rico

Pontific Catholic University of Puerto Rico

United States (31)

Pennsylvania State University, PA (3)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2)

Syracuse University, NY (2)

Boston University, MA

Brown University, RI

California State University, CA

California University- Berkeley, CA

Catholic University of America, DC

Drexel University, PA

Embry Riddle, FL

Emory University, GA

Florida Southern College, FL

Georgia Institute of Technology, GA

Iowa State University, IA

Loyola University, MD

Marymount Manhattan College, NY

Ohio Wesleyan University, OH

Rensellaer Polytechnic Institute, NY

School of Visual Arts, NY

Scranton University, PA

Southern Adventist University, TN

State University of New York, NY

University of Nebraska, NE

University of Massachusetts, MA

University of Rochester, NY

Vassar College, NY

Wesleyan University, CN

Post-secondary placement

100% CIMATEC alumni continued post-secondary studies in 4-year

colleges.

Extracurricular activities The school community coordinates a lot of events integrating different subjects; starting with Intramurals Games through History Weeks. CIMATEC’s environment is very diverse. Since 2015, Students can join only one school club per year as a school internal policy. Some exceptions apply with consultation with professors and administration (for example, Marching Band). School clubs meet once a week (Tuesday 9:00 a.m. through 10:30 a.m.) at CIMATEC. Some clubs meet outside the school and after school hours (for example, Robotics Club, Marching Band, Chorus, Avogadro Club…)


School Clubs 2015-2018:

• “Cabecitas Alegres”- Weaving

Club

• Biotechnology Club

• Avogadro Chemistry Club (ACS chapter)

• Concert Band

• English Book Club

• Chinese Callygraphy

• Chorus

• Click (Photography Club)

• Debate Club

• Dominoes Club

• Environmental Club

• English Book Club

• Forensics League

• Food Club

• Health and Medicine Club

• Innovation Club

• Marching Band

• Math Club High School

• Math Squad

• Medicine Club

• MIT LaunchX Club

• Poetry Club “Susurros”

• Photography Club “Click”

• Recreational

• Club Robotics Vex Club (TEAM

2252)

• Spanish Oratory Team

• Technology Club

• United Nations Alliance Model

• Yearbook Others organizations:

• Center for Talented Youth- Johns Hopkins University

• National Honor Society

• National Junior Honor Society

*****************************************************************************************

Athletics CIMATEC has a high school list of NCAA approved courses in

NCAA Elegibility Center High School Portal.


Graduation Requirements*

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS (7th -9th grade)

**Spanish 3 credits Seventh Eighth Ninth **English Language 3 credits Seventh Eight Ninth **History 3 credits Puerto Rican History America’s History World History **Science 3 credits Introduction to Life Sciences

Life Sciences Lab Introduction to Physical Science Physical Science Lab Introduction to Earth Science Earth Science Lab **Mathematics 3 credits Pre-Algebra Algebra I Geometry **Physical Education 1 credit **Health 1 credit **Fine Arts 1 credit (Theatre, Art, Music Appreciation, Marching band) **Elective and Vocational Courses No Occupational 3 credit *** (Computer and technology, French, Portuguese, Science Investigation or Health Investigation) **Community Service (40 hours) Total 21 credits (Minimum)

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

(10th -12th grade) **Spanish 3 credits Tenth Eleventh Twelfth **English and Language 3 credits Tenth Eleventh Twelfth **History 3 credits Puerto Rican History United States History Sociology **Science 3 credits Biology

Biology Lab Chemistry

Chemistry Lab Physics

Physics Lab **Mathematics 3 credits Algebra II with trigonometry Pre-calculus Calculus **Physical Education 1 credit **Health 1 credit **Parenthood ½ credit **Fine Arts 1 credit (Theatre, Art, Music Appreciation, Marching band) ** Elective and Vocational Courses No Occupational 2½ credit *** (Computer and technology, French, Portuguese, Science Investigation or Health Investigation) **Community Service (40 hours) ** Career exploration (20 hours)

Total 21 credits (Minimum)

** Graduation requirements based on Puerto Rico Education Department- Carta Circular 25-2013-2014. *** CIMATEC’s students have additional credits depending on school resources (Computer Design, Computer and Technology I-IV, French, Portuguese, Economy, among others). For more information see School Regulation, Article 10, and Section 1.

Academic Recommendation



Academic Recommendation

Student BioStudent Name:

Viviana Rivera

High School:


Recommender BioFirst Name:

Eva

Last Name:

Torres

Title:

Counselor

School/Organization:


RelationshipHow long have you known applicant?

5 years as her school counselor

In what context have you known the student (e.g., coach, employer, advisor, teacher, etc.)?

Counselor

How long have you worked in your current industry?

11 years

Rate your engagement with this student:

One of the best encountered in my career

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Upload a Letter of Recommendation

Viviana Rivera Martínez Counselor Recommendation Letter 2 December 2018.pdf

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Viviana Rivera Martínez Counselor Recommendation Letter 2 December 2018.pdf

Upload a Letter of RecommendationViviana Rivera Martínez Counselor Recommendation Letter 2 December 2018.pdf

Betances #67 Caguas, PR 00725

787.961.7191 787.961.7192

December 5th, 2018 Dear Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation representative,

It is with great enthusiasm that I write this letter of recommendation for Viviana! I have seen

Viviana’s development to a successful young lady since August 2013; moreover, since 2017, I

have had the honor to witness firsthand her leadership, entrepreneurship and enthusiasm by

being the contact person for the CIMATEC High School MIT LaunchX Club. She juggles each

commitment she involves herself in with perfection and never flinches when given the

opportunity to participate to any other event where she can showcase her talents and passions.

I am left wonderstruck when she comes to my office with so much energy to comment on her

rush week with the school’s Creative Activities Committee of the National Honor Society of

Puerto Rico, the 12-2 classroom group representative in the Student Government, as a tutor in

Teaching Square, or as the co-founder of the CIMATEC’s High School Launch Club powered by

MIT (LaunchX). For example, in LaunchX she has participated in activities at Island level, being

part of the winning teams in the first competitions. While other students of her age were

nervous and insecure while answering questions from the judges, Viviana confidently

presented her arguments in a clear, orderly and professional style. Her team, which

developed a company based on environmental sustainability to produce biodiesel from waste

oil, has received an Honorable Mention at regional level, and Viviana has been an essential

figure for these achievements.

Her teamwork skills are one of the virtues that attracts my attention the most. As the contact

person of the CIMATEC High School Launch Club, I have witnessed how she has brought

structure, direction and encouragement to the group as their Educational Leader. It is

common to see her on the blackboard writing designs to establish processes, to clarify doubts

or simply to explain some scientific concepts. When she is deliberating in the conference room,

she uses her excellent interpersonal skills to create a peculiar harmony. I think her leadership

style will take her far in life, surpassing every glass ceiling that gets in the way.

Last year, the school needed volunteers to work with low-income students at risk of failing the

school year. I remember, the Social Worker established agreements with Viviana to be one of the

tutors. Twice a week, for two hours, Viviana devotedly explained mathematic concepts to the

student she had been assigned. Thanks to her efforts, the seventh-grade student was able to pass

the course and continue in CIMATEC! She saved him and demonstrated her kindness, empathy,

solidarity and goodwill!

During summer 2018, Viviana co-founded a community project called Hello Girl PR- Aspire IT.

She partnered with AspireIT from NCWIT to design and deliver a week-long programming

summer program for girls in 4th to 6th grade currently enrolled in public schools that do not have

technology readily available. She introduced them to Scratch and they created a final project with

a focus on a societal issue such as recycling or bullying. In addition, Viviana is a creative,

disciplined and committed young woman who appreciates the arts and music. Her competent

performance as co-director and first flute in the CIMATEC's Marching Band and Concert Band

makes her shine. As a dancer at the Ballet Danza Academy, she has been training hard since 2014.

As I mentioned at the beginning, she shares her talents collaborating in school activities by

preparing choreographies and dancing. At CIMATEC we are proud to have a leading lady with

so much talent who is always ready to help!

The academic and extracurricular performance of Viviana makes her stand out among her

classmates. She is a gifted student that maintains academic excellence since the seventh grade

and who’s SAT scores places her at THE top of her class. CIMATEC’s SAT average is 1,138, and

she attain a powerful score of 1,480. Her participation in local and regional scientific fairs has

been very prominent and pertinent, obtaining the first places consistently. Her intelligence and

skills have also been demonstrated through her ability to solve problems, her teamwork skills

and her knowledge in mechanics, programming and technical writing in her role as strategist of

the Robotics Club during the years 2014 to 2016. Also, she has been a member of the Center for

Talented Youth of Johns Hopkins University through where she took the course titled Logic:

Principles of Reasoning. There she was able to learn about formal and informal patterns of

reasoning together with a community of like-minded and creative students. I am plenty

confident about Viviana’s capacity to excel in a rigorous academic environment, as he has

demonstrated all these years.

Viviana has been constantly establishing new goals and looking for opportunities to learn. Two

summers ago, she participated in the so prestigious summer program in Brown University. In

this program, she completed the course of Biomedical Informatics and Data Science for

Biomedicine and Health Care. In summer 2018, her intellectual curiosity has led her to be the

first and only student from CIMATEC’s history admitted to the highly prestigious pre-collegiate

summer program, MITES. The process to get there was complex and tense due to the difficulties

in communications brought by Hurricane Maria. She was selected as one of the 70 students from

a pool of 2,100 candidates for the residential summer program where she took Calculus, Physics,

Biochemistry, Genomics, and Humanities. I admire Viviana’s ambition, determination and

perseverance to strive for this life-changing opportunity. Her performance was recognized with

2018 William H. Ramsey Award, the most prestigious recognition of MIT’s Minority

Introduction to Engineering and Science (MITES) given to the exemplary student that

demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, evident leadership, and a true passion for

learning! From experience, I know how difficult it is to be admitted into this program, so

when Viviana told me that she won the maximum recognition, the walls of the room shrunk. I

felt that the pride, the admiration and the respect that I have always felt for her were intensely

accentuated. I was dumbfounded, unable to even scream- as I have done with other good news.

I was very happy for her, but I was flabbergasted because I was worried thinking "our school is

too small for this girl, what else are we going to offer her?" However, I comforted myself in

thinking "we will offer her the same as always, our support on her new goals".

Lastly, Viviana is a student worthy of admiration for her human qualities and her great talent

for STEAM areas. I fully trust her ability to successfully perform in highly rigorous academic

environments. I recommend Viviana Rivera with great enthusiasm, and without any

reservation!

Sincerely,

Eva M. Torres Counselor

Community Recommendation



Community Recommendation

Professional RecommendationStudent Name:

Viviana Rivera Martinez

High School:

CIMATEC

Recommender BioFirst Name:

Patricia

Last Name:

Bethancourt

Title:

Supervisor

School/Organization

Teaching Square

RelationshipHow long have you known applicant?

6 years

In what context have you known the student (e.g., teacher, counselor, principal, advisor, coach,etc.)?

teacher, employer

How long have you worked in Education?

14 years

Rate your engagement with this student:

One of the best encountered in my career

You can choose to upload a recommendation letter or answer the following short response questions.

You can choose to upload a recommendation letter or answer a series of short response questions.Which would you like to do?

Upload Recommendation


Viviana Martinez Teaching S Recommendation Letter-3.docx

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Viviana Martinez Teaching S Recommendation Letter-3.docx

Upload a Letter of RecommendationViviana Martinez Teaching S Recommendation Letter-3.docx

December 11, 2018 Applicant : Viviana Rivera

Viviana Rivera is committed to original thought, and she knows how to express her philosophies to others including: her family, friends, peers, and professors. In so much, that Viviana is not timid, yet she is determined to make great strides in her personal and professional life.

Many of her teachers, mentors and myself could share countless stories from the past six years that delineate her integrity and grit, but I will like to focus on her contributions to younger students who are less fortunate in more than one way. Currently, she works at my tutoring center, “Teaching Square,” and has been since August 2018. When I thought of possible tutors to work at the center, I called Viviana immediately. Despite her intense schedule she was excited to join our team, and I am a fortunate employer because of it.

I like to consider Viviana as a master in the STEM field! Yet she does not cave into her own world or her own problems, instead she has a hunger to share her acuity with others who hope to contribute to the STEM/Humanities field. For example, Viviana tutors students who are between the grades 7th-12th grade. When she reports to work, I know I can count on her to be present and assist with all subject matters. Vivian’s enthusiasm and energy to lead more than 15 kids in various sessions to love math, and language arts is commendable for such a young woman. As a supervisor, I was encouraged by her dedication and genuine joy to make positive contributions; her positive energy is without a doubt contagious. All the kids at the center love her, and say, “I could understand Math with her!”

If you do not know Viviana’s family’s background, you would think this girl is exempt from heartaches, but like all of us she too knows about sleepless nights. Even though she has her share of sorrows, her level of maturity to juggle school and life moves me. In as much, that she does not drown during hard times, but pushes through obstacles to find a secure hedge. Thus, she prevails! For example, after Hurricane Maria her projects were at risk of collapsing. She lives in a rural part of Puerto Rico that had no electricity and no barely any communication for more than 6 months. Yet, she literally climbed through rubble, and endured countless hours of traffic to get to the metropolitan area to meet deadlines. Viviana’s poise, professionalism, passion, and compassion are transcendent at Teaching Square and everywhere she goes.

I am certain Viviana Rivera has the talents to learn clever working styles that may be a prerequisite in different working scenarios both in and out of the STEM field because her humility allows her to excel. I confide that she will be able to persevere in various academic and professional scenarios. It is a pleasure for me to Introduce Viviana Rivera as an aspiring applicant.

Patricia Bethancourt, President Teaching Square

Student Name: 541045 - Escuela SecundariaEspecializada en CIMATEC - PR

First Name

Viviana

Last Name

Rivera

Questionnaire & Family Information · students. Conducted a laboratory project to identify nostril bacteria via the sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene sequence. Name of Activity or Organization

Documents

Questionnaire & Family Information · students. Conducted a laboratory project to identify nostril bacteria via the sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene sequence. Name of Activity or Organization