Catch up with a Libraries student scholarship awardee: Daniel Briceno

The NC State University Libraries awards a number of part-scholarships every year to our outstanding Libraries student workers as part of a concerted effort to support student success and affordability. Since 2018, we've awarded 60 scholarships of varying amounts to 37 students. For the academic year 2023–24, philanthropic support for the Libraries Student Scholarship Fund has allowed us to support 18 of our talented students with scholarship support worth $67,760 in total. This profile is one in a series that lets our scholarship winners tell their stories.

Daniel Briceno started his NC State experience in the Computer Engineering program. Now a sophomore, he’s switched to Computer Science as his interests in engineering have moved more into software development. A first-generation student from immigrant parents, Briceno works in the Libraries’ Learning Spaces & Services department.

What are your hobbies and activities outside of school?
When I'm not studying, you will find me at the gym, in the library, cooking in my apartment, or volunteering. I love to go to the gym with friends, play video games with them, and try new things with them. 

Why did you choose to work at the Libraries? What roles have libraries played in your life in general?
Libraries have always been a safe and quiet space for me, where I know I can be productive. Having a strong work ethic, I am happy to be able to work in this space and provide assistance for others, too. 

What do you hope to do after you graduate?
In five years, I see myself having a full-time job, saving money for a home, and being stable and happy with my girlfriend. I plan on traveling when I can and coming back to NC State when I can to contribute to the organizations and people who supported me during my undergraduate degree. 

How will a Libraries scholarship help you on your educational/personal path? Is there anything specific that the scholarship will enable or help you to do?
Food is an expense that can be challenging. My friends and I face various expenses such as rent, car payments, class materials, and necessities such as clothes and school materials to name a few. Unfortunately, tuition is just one of many expenses you might have to make to afford a college education. 

Learn more about the Libraries Student Scholarship Endowment here, and donate directly here.