Class of 2026
The laboratory became like a second home to Sabrina Roggero ’26 as she pursued a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering at Florida Polytechnic University. She worked with Dr. Daren Watson on observing the effects of raindrops on ants and spent two years working with Dr. Jun Kim on projects to help improve Winter Haven, Florida’s drinking water supply and provide outreach to public schools. Along the way, she earned the prestigious Roy Likins Scholarship from the American Water Works Association.
Roggero, who will receive her degree at Florida Poly’s commencement on Saturday, May 9, is president of Women’s Club Soccer and previously served the Student Government Association’s legislative aide. After graduation, she hopes to participate in a research program in South Korea and later pursue a doctoral degree.
What was your greatest accomplishment at Florida Poly?
Winning the American Water Works Association award. I was dumbfounded when I got the email. I was sitting in my car, stressed out and I was having doubts. I was thinking that even though I was doing research that might continue and get published after I graduate, was I even doing it right? Was I even going to have in impact on the people who live in Winter Haven? That award made everything feel real.
How well do you feel Florida Poly prepared you for life after graduation?
I feel really prepared. Everything really started to pick up sophomore year when I began research with Dr. Watson and Dr. Kim. That hands-on experience, combined with class labs, gave me the confidence to continue working in research and design. I’ve applied to do research in South Korea at my professor’s alma mater and it’s scary, but I know I can handle it. I’m excited and I’m ready for what’s next.
What was your favorite course and why?
The environmental engineering lab was the best. Since there were only five of us, it was a tight-knit group. We had a big project at the end, and I learned so much. I got to see everything I had learned about in my intro courses actually working. In class, it can seem like just equations on a board, but being able to get hands-on and see results that match the theory was amazing. It was like, ‘Wow, I just did that. This is real and it’s happening right in front of me.’
What did you enjoy most about your time at Florida Poly?
Before I even came here, the former soccer captain messaged me and asked if I wanted to join the team. I’ve played soccer my whole life and I wanted to play in college, but I chose Florida Poly over a larger Division I school, and it was the best decision. Whether we had games or not, I’ve had so much fun the past four years. Being in a demanding STEM field, having that outlet made a huge difference and it’s been the best experience ever.
What’s something you’ll never forget about your time here?
My freshman year, our soccer team played against Stetson University. We hadn’t won a match yet, but I scored six goals against Stetson and we won! I was elated. It was an amazing feeling, and everyone was so happy for me. I don’t think I’ll ever forget how it felt scoring that sixth goal.
What advice do you have for an incoming student?
Talk to everybody. Everyone here is on your side and wants to help you. Even if a professor seems strict, they want you to succeed, so go to their office hours and connect with them. The school is small enough that we’re blessed to be able to get to know our professors. I’ve connected with almost half of the professors I’ve taken classes with, even on LinkedIn. I feel like I truly know who they are and what they do.
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of Q&As featuring Florida Poly Class of 2026 graduates.
Contact:
Lydia Guzmán
Director of Communications
863-874-8557
