For Cheyenne Awelewa, STEM isn’t just a field of study — it’s a mission. As a student in the STEM Pathways program at San Diego City College and a dedicated employee at San Diego College of Continuing Education (SDCCE), Awelewa’s journey is a testament to resilience, identity, and purpose.
Originally from El Centro, California, she moved to Los Angeles after high school, where she met her husband. The two later settled in San Diego, and it was there that Awelewa decided to return to school and fully commit to her dream of pursuing computer engineering.
Her last name, Awelewa, symbolizes a new identity — one deeply personal and cultural. “Awelewa is Nigerian. My husband’s father is from Nigeria,” she shared. “It means ‘beautiful’ — actually ‘slim beauty,’ but I like highlighting the ‘beautiful’ part.” Now proudly bearing the name, Awelewa embraces it not just as a symbol of her marriage, but also as part of her evolving identity as a woman in STEM — one shaped by love, culture, and purpose.
While navigating a rigorous academic load, Awelewa also works at SDCCE in the Gateway Program, helping immigrants, refugees, and English language learners reach their education and career goals. “It’s been life-changing,” she said. “Working there has opened my heart to wanting to help communities that need support. I feel like we all need that kind of support — and if I can give it, even to one student, that’s enough for me.”
Her days are full — balancing lectures, studying, and hands-on group projects with her work supporting students. But it’s that very mix that keeps her grounded. “I’ve learned to manage my time, change up my study environment, and prioritize rest — sleep is pivotal,” she said. “And when I need an extra boost, I go to office hours. That one-on-one connection makes a huge difference here at City.”
Awelewa didn’t always think STEM was for her. “I wasn’t great at math growing up. But I always loved science,” she said. “It wasn’t until college that I realized — if I practice, I can master it. I’ve always wanted to be a problem solver, and STEM is the way I can do that.”
She credits Professor Tracy Kaiser, who taught her Math 116 at City, as the person who made her realize that moment when she truly felt she belonged in STEM. “She’s phenomenal. The way she explained things made me believe I could do it too. And she shared her journey with me — that meant everything.”
Awelewa’s belief in herself now fuels her leadership in programs like Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement, where she supports peers as a creator and collaborator. “It’s all about building community, helping each other. I think collaboration brings out the best ideas.” Awelewa hopes to one day develop an educational app that helps high school and early college students explore careers that match both their skills and passions. “It would go beyond just an aptitude test,” she said. “It would show what real-world jobs look like, day-to-day — salary, responsibilities, and the lifestyle — so students can make more informed decisions.”
When asked how she maintains confidence in STEM environments where she might be the only woman or person of color, her answer is rooted in strength: “I remind myself I’m worthy and capable. I don’t let negative stereotypes get in. They just bounce off. That’s their issue, not mine. I know I belong in these spaces.” She describes herself as a natural problem solver, someone who thinks critically, leads with positivity, and innovates with heart. And she’s already paving the way for others. “The best part about being in STEM is that one day, I’ll get to mentor someone else just like I was mentored.”
Awelewa plans to transfer to San Diego State University to pursue a bachelor’s in computer engineering — and eventually, a Ph.D. “That’s the goal,” she said. “I can’t wait.” For Awelewa, STEM is more than just science, technology, engineering, and math — it’s about identity, empowerment, and lifting others as she climbs.
Awelewa shared an inspirational message for future women in STEM: “Just do it, girl,” she said, smiling. “You’ll be surprised how great you’re going to be.”