Recent K-State grad exemplifies leadership, resilience and community commitment

Friday, May 30, 2025

Medel Orozco, a spring 2025 graduate from Kansas State University's architectural engineering program, is making waves as an outstanding example of leadership, perseverance and community dedication. A first-generation bilingual college student from Dodge City, Medel has successfully navigated the challenges of higher education while building a meaningful path toward a promising future.

Medel's journey is one marked by academic excellence and heartfelt purpose. He is a recipient of the Cargill Transfer Scholarship, an award made possible through a partnership between Cargill and K-State Student Belonging. The scholarship was created to support the families of Cargill plant employees in accessing higher education. Both of Medel's parents have worked at the Cargill meatpacking facility in Dodge City for more than 20 years — a connection that makes this scholarship especially personal.

"Being awarded the Cargill Transfer Scholarship was of great significance for me," Medel said. "To me, this scholarship is not merely financial assistance; it is an investment in my ability to bring positive change to my community, and I am committed to using this support to its fullest potential."

Medel has completed two summer internships with Cargill at the Dodge City facility, where his dedication and innovation earned him the Cargill Internship Award. The award was presented at the company's prestigious Cargill Ignite program. Reflecting on the experience, he shared, "My favorite part is working at a place where I can have lunch with my parents."

Beyond his work with Cargill, Medel has also interned with The Beck Group in Dallas, Texas, expanding his professional experience in architectural engineering. On campus, he spent three years as a participant in K-State's Developing Scholars Program, conducting research alongside faculty in his field. Balancing a rigorous academic schedule, Medel also maintains a part-time job to help support his education.

In spring 2024, Medel joined a cohort of first-generation students on a weeklong study abroad trip to Italy. It was his first time traveling outside the U.S. — a transformative experience that deepened his global awareness. "K-State's First-generation Student Abroad Experience opened my eyes to different ways of life and broadened my perspective on global issues," he said. "It was a profound learning experience, both academically and personally."

After graduation, Medel will return to Cargill as an engineering associate, ready to apply his education and values to real-world challenges. Whether in the lab, in the classroom or across the globe, Medel Orozco stands as a remarkable role model to his fellow Wildcats, demonstrating the power of perseverance, gratitude and a commitment to giving back.