Building Dreams: The Inspiring Story of Amaia De Jesús Orozco

From a young age, Amaia De Jesús Orozco had a clear vision: to create spaces that inspire, transform, and elevate people’s quality of life through architecture. Born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Amaia studied at the Specialized School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology, where her curiosity and determination led her to excel academically. However, despite her talent and effort, she faced multiple challenges on her path to higher education. 

Her dream of studying architecture drove her to apply to prestigious universities outside of Puerto Rico, but the process was far from easy. The lack of proper guidance at her high school made it difficult to access essential information about admissions and financial aid. At this crucial moment, the Kinesis Foundation became a beacon of hope, providing her with mentorship, leadership workshops, and university counseling that paved the way for her success. 

Today, Amaia is an Architecture student at Carnegie Mellon University, one of the most recognized institutions in the field. Thanks to the Kinesis Scholarship and financial aid from her university, she was able to step toward her dream of owning her architecture firm in Puerto Rico. However, the economic burden remains a challenge, leading her to seek additional scholarships to cover uncovered costs. This experience has strengthened her resilience and determination, teaching her the value of perseverance and the continuous search for opportunities. 

Beyond her academic excellence, Amaia is a multifaceted young woman with a passion for art and creativity. She enjoys drawing, ceramics, and exercise—activities that complement her drill as an architect and allow her to express her artistic vision. Currently, she is working on a group application proposal, showcasing her interest in innovation and technology applied to her field. 

Amaia has not only overcome personal and financial barriers but has also been an inspiration for other Puerto Rican youth who dream big. Her message is clear: "If you have an idea you believe in, don’t let fear or others' opinions stop you. If you want to study abroad, educate yourself and make it happen. At the end of the day, the most important thing is not regretting having tried what you truly desire."