Michael Martinez Wants to Set Positive Example in Student Commencement Speech

For Michael Martinez, speaking at Saturday’s Commencement ceremony is a chance to send a positive message to his class and encourage others to work toward their dreams.  

The Architecture student will speak during the second Commencement event at 1:00 p.m. Sarah Williamson, Construction Management, will speak at 10:00 a.m. 

Martinez talks about his Wentworth career with us, reflecting on transformational co-op experiences and what advice he would offer incoming students. 

Wentworth:   
What attracted you to speaking at this year’s commencement ceremony? 

Michael Martinez: 
As we all know, it’s been an overall rough year. I wanted to have the opportunity to send a positive message to the graduating class and to the rest of the Wentworth community while also getting a chance to represent my culture and show other students like me that graduating college was not an impossible dream. I'm from Dominican Republic and I wanted to encourage other underrepresented minorities to work toward their dreams and ambitions, regardless of the trials and tribulations along the way.  

 
Wentworth:  
As you look back on your time at Wentworth, is there anything you’re particularly proud of? 

MM: 
I would say that I’m particularly proud of my growth as a student, especially in my digital abilities. I initially struggled with the different programs we had to learn, but over the years I have made significant progress compared to my freshman year.  

 
Wentworth:  
Where did you complete your co-ops? Any memories of those experiences? 

MM: 
I was fortunate enough to have two great co-ops and work with kind, positive and insightful colleagues. My first co-op was at the Harvard University Graduate School of Design working with the building services department. My second co-op was working with Professor Samuel Maddox of Make/Do Studio on several projects and research. I can’t say enough great things about these two work opportunities and I’m endlessly grateful for both.  
  

Wentworth:  
What advice do you have for incoming students planning to attend Wentworth for the first time in the fall? 

MM: 
Dedicate time toward your mind and body and create a healthy balance between work and play. It’s important to push yourself as a student to grow, but make sure to rest and treat yourself in moderation.   

 
Wentworth:  
What are your plans for right after graduation? 

MM: 
My plans post-graduation would be to continue gaining knowledge and experience in the field by working at an architecture firm, or any other work environment where I can continue to grow, and eventually return to Wentworth to complete my master’s degree.