UCF’s American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE) Vice President Edward Collazo Borges has evolved as a civil engineer student throughout his time here at UCF. From starting at UCF with little to no experience to now completing multiple internships and being a part of many leadership roles, Borges has learned to manage and balance multiple aspects of his life.
The value of balance is important when it comes to academics and a life outside of school, Borges says. Even with finding that balance, there will be moments of growth and changes.
“I started off interested in design, switched to construction, and eventually came back to design with a new perspective,” Borges says. “I went from being drawn to vertical structures to horizontal systems and now I’m exploring space infrastructure.”
Over the past three years, Borges has been a part of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), ASCE, taken over five leadership and competition roles, and completed two internships. He had just recently been chosen to go to a two-day conference in Washington D.C., the ASCE Legislative Fly-In, where he was one of the youngest people there.
“When I first started at UCF, I was definitely extroverted but still shy and nervous about putting myself out there. I was worried I wouldn’t find a community,” Borges says. “But so much has changed and I’ve grown more confident and comfortable.”
Even though Borges is still figuring out what exactly he wants to do for his career, he knows it will involve design and infrastructure. Furthermore, he would love to specialize in sustainable design, working on projects that aim for certifications like Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) or projects that align with the Envision framework for sustainable infrastructure. In the long-term, he has even thought about designing infrastructure that could go on the Moon or Mars someday.
“UCF has played a big role in getting me closer to these goals. Through career fairs and student organizations, I’ve explored different sides of civil engineering and discovered what I’m passionate about,” Borges says. “Each of these experiences has helped broaden my understanding of the field and made my goals feel more within reach.”
As Borges goes into his senior year, he will move up from vice president to president of ASCE for the 2025-2026 school year. He will continue to be a part of this club as well as the concrete canoe competition, while taking his Structural Design Course and completing his capstone work.
Borges emphasized his commitment to staying in his major, pushing through the challenges and becoming someone that others could come to for support or guidance.
“Personally, I just want to make the most of it. I want to spend time with my friends, make memories, and continue to balance my academics, extracurriculars and personal life,” Borges says. “To anyone just starting out, explore everything, take risks and get involved. UCF has a lot to give.”
- Written by Sydney Ford