By Melaina Lenzi
Simon Njoroge knows the power of a single yes. Like many international students, Simon heard a lot of noes. While finishing his undergraduate degree, in 2024, Simon applied for over 600 positions and received the same response each time: “Thank you for your application. However, we have selected another candidate.”
Studies show that international students face challenges around networking and employment, applying to more than twice as many jobs as their peers but receiving 30% fewer offers.
But Simon has always faced challenges head on.
Fueled By Determination
Simon grew up in Kenya and immigrated to the United States to attend college. He started his collegiate education at Green River College, and in 2022, transferred to the University of Washington, Tacoma.
At UW Tacoma, Simon worked as a research assistant exploring concept maps in engineering and promoting entrepreneurship among engineering students. He also participated in the NASA Mission Concept Academy, where he worked on a mock mission to the poles of Mars.
As a person who sets ambitious goals and exceeds them, Simon’s drive stands out. However, it’s not only his impressive resume that shines—Simon also cares deeply about the people around him.
Building Community Through Service
As an undergraduate, Simon worked as a peer career coach, where he empowered his fellow students by connecting them with resources and providing personalized support. This is where his commitment to the next generation began.
However, in his final year of college, Simon struggled to launch his career. After submitting 600 applications without receiving any offers—largely due to his international status—he felt discouraged.
That’s when Simon found Degrees of Change and the Seed Internships program. Weary, but determined, he completed the program application. After an intensive application and interview process, Simon finally received the answer he had been waiting for: “We are happy to accept your application!”
One Opportunity Changes Everything
Simon was selected to be a part of the 2023 Cohort, where he would be matched with a top, local employer over a 12-week internship to get hands-on experience while receiving professional development from Degrees of Change.
“I got accepted and honestly that changed a lot in my life,” said Simon. “Seed [Internships] was honestly more like a bandage to my heart. Someone finally gave me a second look… I was really excited.”
Through Seed Internships Simon was paired with MacDonald-Miller Facility Solutions, where he worked as a Project Manager Intern and received on-the-job training and mentorship.
Then, at the end of Simon’s internship, he was hired full-time as a Project Engineer in mechanical construction. He has been with MacDonald-Miller for the past three years.
Simon Njoroge headshot (Photo courtesy of Simon Njoroge)
Giving Back Through His Career
Today, Simon is working on building a hospital in the region and is excited to be giving back to the community through his work. “[I’m] loving what I’m doing because here we are building a facility that’s going to save the lives of kids and give them a second chance in life.”
But Simon’s story doesn’t end with his own success. Not only is he paying it forward at work, but he is also taking the time to pass his knowledge to other students.
Last year, Simon returned to Seed Internships as a volunteer interviewer for the 2025 Cohort applicants, where he provided resume support and constructive feedback. Those applicants were able to use his advice in their future interviews.
Creating Opportunities For the Next Generation
More recently, Simon returned to UW Tacoma as a guest speaker to share his experience with emerging mechanical engineering students entering the profession. He inspired fellow first-generation college and international students by sharing his story and allowing them to gain insights into the day-to-day experience of his profession.
Finally, Simon has started his own mentor program for international and high school students navigating the college application process and deciding on their majors. What began with just three students has now grown to 40 in just a few short years.
Launching a career after college can be uncertain, especially for historically underserved students, but Simon’s success shows that one “yes” can have compounding impacts for both individuals and the community. His story is a reminder that access to mentorship, resources, and support for emerging leaders helps build a more vibrant future for everyone.
Melaina Lenzi is a 2025 Seed Internships alum and 2026 graduate from the University of Washington, Tacoma. She earned her bachelor’s degree in economics and policy analysis and aspires to continue working in the nonprofit sector and eventually continue her education in economics.
Featured image: Simon Njoroge at work at MacDonald-Miller Facility Solutions. (Photo courtesy of Simon Njoroge)
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