Mirelys Méndez Pons, a young Puerto Rican from Peñuelas and Yauco, has achieved what many might consider an unattainable dream. She is currently studying at Stanford University, one of the world’s most prestigious educational institutions, thanks to the invaluable support she has received from the Kinesis Foundation. Her story is a testament to perseverance, determination, and the profound impact that the right support can have on a student's life.
Before learning about Kinesis, Mirelys felt lost in the university application process. She lacked the access to information that other privileged students had, which left her feeling uncertain. However, her life took a turn when a mentor introduced her to the Kinesis Foundation and the opportunities it offers to Puerto Rican students with academic aspirations.
The financial support from Kinesis has been crucial for Mirelys, allowing her to cover her tuition without worrying about university expenses. This has enabled her to fully concentrate on her academic and professional development, seizing all the opportunities Stanford offers. Thanks to the foundation’s help, Mirelys has participated in research projects and attended international conferences like the CHI 2025 Conference (Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems), which have broadened her horizons.
Despite the challenges she faced initially, Mirelys never lost hope. Her determination, paired with the support of Kinesis, has led her to remarkable achievements. She is a member of the Stanford Cap and Gown Board of Directors and has been accepted into the Honors Program at Stanford Graduate School of Education. Additionally, her concentration in Physical Design & Manufacturing positions her as a future leader in the design and manufacturing field, with an innovative approach.
What sets Mirelys apart is not only her academic success but also her desire to share her experience with other young people who may be facing the same challenges she did. Her passion for guiding others has motivated her to become a source of inspiration for many. Mirelys strongly believes that Kinesis’ support has opened doors not just for her but for an entire community of young people who now look to her as a role model.
"I am deeply grateful to Kinesis for everything they have done for me. Not only have they provided financial stability, but they have also allowed me to dream and reach goals that once seemed unattainable. My commitment now is to help other students achieve the same," Mirelys shares.
In addition to her academic dedication, Mirelys stays active in her hobbies, such as reading, playing video games, photography, cooking, and listening to music, which help her relax and maintain balance. Her advice to other students aiming for success is clear: "Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn from different people. Everyone has something to teach you, and the key is to stay curious, be persistent, and seize every learning opportunity."
Mirelys' story is a clear example that, with the right support and personal determination, any dream is achievable. Kinesis has been a cornerstone in her journey, and she, in turn, has become a beacon of hope for young people looking to succeed. Her journey is just beginning, but it is destined to reach new heights and continue inspiring many others.
Join today and be part of this lasting impact on the lives of our youth.
