Mateo is passionate about breaking down stereotypes about who should and who should not pursue a career in a STEM field. The formerly shy young man has become a dedicated activist. Growing up he had been led to believe that only certain people were cut out to work in a logical field such as math. However, he defied this myth and now works to “actively bridge the gap between queerness and STEM.”

He has worked with high school students as the QTPoC Access Coordinator, encouraging students to pursue higher education by organizing activities such as field trips and college days. Through this work he was quickly forced out of his comfort zone, and surprised himself when he realized that he was “standing in front of classrooms and auditoriums full of students hosting workshops and advertising our resources.”

This initiative led him to become the Director of Student Initiated Access Programs and Services (SIAPS) where he “supported the facilitation of hundreds of programs that improve access to high education.” His presence has shown that there is space for everyone in STEM fields and in higher education.

Mateo also has learned the value of collaboration, and Is active with the Student Affirmative Action Committee, a coalition of six different organizations. By working together, this group can “intersectionally advocate for each other’s issues and present our demands as a united front.” He is enrolled in Earl Warren College.