Amanda Christina Santiago has always been drawn to creativity, problem-solving, and the idea of building something meaningful. Now, the Garey High School Class of 2026 student is preparing to take those passions across the country as she heads to the University of Notre Dame to pursue a degree in civil engineering.
Originally interested in architecture because of her love for design, Amanda soon realized she also wanted a career that would challenge her academically—especially in mathematics. Civil engineering became the perfect fit.
“I wanted to apply the knowledge of both disciplines in a creative and innovative way that can benefit society,” Amanda shared.
For Amanda, attending Notre Dame represents far more than simply earning a college degree. It is the result of years of dedication, rigorous coursework, and personal growth. Throughout high school, she challenged herself through Advanced Placement and dual enrollment courses while building strong relationships with teachers who supported her every step of the way.
“I’m very thankful for those teachers for assisting me throughout my application process,” she said.
Two Garey High School Educators in particular left a lasting impact on her journey. Ms. Pruitt encouraged Amanda to apply to Notre Dame, believing in her potential even before Amanda fully believed in it herself. Ms. Granados also inspired her to pursue a university that reflected the effort and determination she had shown throughout high school.
Amanda’s connection to Notre Dame deepened after attending “The Rally,” an accepted student’s weekend hosted by the university. Walking through campus and experiencing the school spirit firsthand helped her envision herself there.
“When I stepped onto the campus, I knew it was an environment I wanted to be surrounded in,” she said.
As she prepares to leave Southern California for Indiana, Amanda admits the transition feels both exciting and intimidating. Having grown up in the same community her entire life, moving to a different state is a major leap—but one she is ready to take.
“I am the type of person who would rather take a big risk than live with regret of the possibilities I lost,” Amanda explained. “Sometimes you have to put yourself into a different environment to grow, and I am willing to take that risk.”
Among the many opportunities awaiting her at Notre Dame, Amanda is especially excited about studying abroad and experiencing parts of the world she has never seen before. She is also looking forward to becoming more involved socially, attending football games, and expanding her circle of friends.
“In the early years of high school I was not involved at all in school activities,” she said. “It wasn’t until my junior year that I attended my first football game, and I immediately regretted not attending sooner.”
Academically and personally, Amanda views her acceptance to Notre Dame as a powerful symbol of perseverance and representation. As a Hispanic woman entering a STEM field, she hopes her journey inspires others and challenges stereotypes.
“I have always had the mindset that education is my form of protest,” Amanda said. “I’m glad to be part of the many people around the world displaying Latino excellence.”
Her future goals extend beyond personal success. Amanda hopes to specialize in structural stability as a civil engineer and create safer, more reliable buildings and infrastructure. Inspired by childhood fears of earthquakes destroying communities, she wants her work to help protect the places people call home.
“I not only want to help develop society, but I would like to help keep it maintained and durable,” she said.
As Amanda prepares for this next chapter, she hopes other students dreaming of attending prestigious universities will believe in themselves and take chances.
“Don’t overthink it,” she advised. “Choose a school that loves you back. Don’t be afraid to take risks and apply to top schools that may seem out of reach because you never know what that school might see in you.”
Looking ahead, Amanda hopes her future self remembers one important lesson she has already learned through years of hard work and perseverance:
“Trust yourself.”