Gabriela Palavicino (she/her)
Zenith Fellow Mentee, Class of 2023
University of Alberta, Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering
Mentor: Heidi Bathory
Gabriela is a Co-op student at the University of Alberta currently obtaining an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering.
She is very passionate about space exploration and how it can help humanity in the future. Gabriela’s biggest goal is to be part of a project to Mars and/or beyond which can lead to having a better understanding of the galaxy and the universe!
Gabriela has many different experiences, for instance, she moved from Canada to Chile at a very young age and learned about a different culture to which she wasn’t accustomed to. On top of that, having to live in two different places for most of her life, she was able to make good friends over the years who are very special to her.
In the past year, Gabriela has been fortunate enough to work with Space Engine Systems, a company that is designing a hypersonic plane in Edmonton, Alberta. Working with engineers from all over Canada was a good experience for Gabriela because she learnt a lot from these individuals which contributed to her future decisions in her career. During her time at Space Engines System, Gabriela learned about aerospace standards, and documentation that involves designing a hypersonic airplane, and designing parts of the aircraft.
Outside of academia, Gabriela loves to spend time with her friends, watch movies like Marvel and Disney, and is open to any worthwhile experience!