Downey High School has many programs highlighting students who plan to be STEM majors. One of the most notable programs offered here at Downey is the robotics program, formally known as The Striking Vikings. This program was created in September 2015, and nine years later, it has grown to have thirty-three members. Each member of The Striking Vikings is a devoted, hard-working student and a unique contributor to the team.
Cristopher Medina, a senior at Downey High, has been a new addition to the team. Outside of robotics, his interests include reading, playing video games, and going to the gym. After graduation, he plans to major in aerospace engineering and attend California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. As he explores his passion and newfound extracurriculars, Medina helps in different areas and contributes to multiple groups in robotics while learning from his peers. When asked about the overall atmosphere with his teammates, Medina explained, “People go in their zones and work on their projects. They practice. They don’t slack off.” This is a common theme when it comes to The Striking Vikings, as they are always eager to prove their dedication and willingness to work toward a common goal.
Two-year robotics member, Larissa Martin, is a senior at Downey High School this year. She hopes to major in electrical engineering at the University of California San Diego. In her free time, she enjoys playing volleyball and hanging out with her family. Martin is a highly valued robotics team member who designs and creates using a 3D printer. She contributed to the team in Houston, where she participated in the world championships for the entire robotics program. When asked about the productivity between Martin and her teammates, she concluded, “Time is never wasted in D building. We are very productive.” Visiting Houston and traveling for this program is the highlight of Martin’s time as a Striking Viking: “All the people I get to meet whenever we travel.” Martin explains, “I meet a lot of new people, and it’s pretty fun.”
Three-year member of The Striking Vikings, Yoselyn Ortega, is a current senior at Downey High. Ortega plans to attend the University of Southern California and double major in aerospace and mechanical engineering. Outside of robotics, she enjoys spending time with her family and helping with what she can. She is the current captain and plays many roles on the robotics team. She helps out new members, conducts tours, and does computer-aided design, machining, programming, manufacturing, and anything else that requires keeping everyone on task and organized. Ortega agreed that there is a very productive atmosphere when it comes to the robotics team and said, “It could be learning a new machine or learning about other teams, but it’s honestly constant work until we clock out.” further highlighting the effort shown by the team. Not only do The Striking Vikings show their skill and motivation through hard work, but they also have a strong team bond: “My favorite thing is probably the people.” Ortega explains, “Spending so much time up in D building, doing projects, and just having to work with each other has honestly brought us closer, and there’s nothing else quite like it.”
