My [MESA] friends and I studied together, and when physics got hard, we cried and laughed together. We always said that we wouldn’t go down without a fight. I still use that mantra when facing struggles.
– Brenda Obonyo

Have you ever had a group of people who just get you – who cheer you on and help you find your path? That’s what MESA was for Brenda Obonyo, and it changed everything for her.

As a first-generation college student and MESA participant at Edmonds College, Brenda found a welcoming community that encouraged her love of physics and learning. That sense of connection carried her through her studies at the University of Washington, where she earned top honors for her work in technology, mentorship, and social impact.

Even in the face of a major health setback – requiring open-heart surgery just months before graduation—Brenda persevered, crossing the stage with the support of her closest friends and family. Inspired by her experiences, she launched the Breaking Barriers Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting students in STEM and nursing through mentorship and scholarships.

Brenda’s story is one of 10 alumni featured in our MESA USA Impact Story series, with personalized posters and trading cards shared in MESA classrooms nationwide to inspire the next generation of MESA students.

Brenda’s Full Story

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