Caden Tolentino: Enacting Positive Change

Featured: Caden Tolentino, Spring 2026 ECE graduate and NC State Men’s Soccer team Captain

Tell us about your background.

I was in born in Canada, but moved to Pinehurst, NC at a very young age. I grew up in Pinehurst and played soccer out of Raleigh.

Coming into NC State, I was in general engineering my freshman year. I was drawn to ECE due to its wide capabilities and its prevalence everywhere. I noticed how impactful it truly electrical and computer engineering is, and how many avenues it would open.

What drew you to NC State?

I was recruited to play soccer at NC State. When I came on my visit, I was first drawn to the people that I met. There was a sense of pride at this university, with genuine people all around. Coming here was one of the best decisions I've ever made.

Do you have a favorite class or area of study?

I have really enjoyed my controls system courses. The concept of the iteration process is something I have implemented into my life as a whole.

What was one of the best practical experiences you had at NC State?

I went to an alumni event and built many connections. Networking is so important, and these events are great ways to connect with alumni and people in industry. I met one of my current mentors at that alumni event, who has taught me a ton. 

Is there anything that surprised you over your years at NC State?

I think one of the things that surprised me the most is how receptive people can be to change and how much I can enact it. The work I was able to do as Captain of the Men’s Soccer team and also as President of SAAC (Student-Athlete Advisory Committee) truly showed me this.

Talk about your time as an NC State athlete. How was it juggling D1 athletics and a demanding engineering degree?

It was challenging at times, but one of the most rewarding things I have ever done. I wouldn’t want it any other way. I was able to do what I love, while pursuing one of the best degrees possible. The people who helped me along the way – teachers, advisors (Ginger Yu specifically) and my coaching staff – made all of this possible and were so accommodating in both my athletic and academic career.

What about your time outside of school and soccer? What are you passionate about?

I am extremely passionate about being a leader and enacting change in the structures I am in – whether that is through SAAC and the betterment of student-athletes or the NC State student body as a whole. I am big on respect and respecting others in turn. I like to feel like I’ve carried myself that way and have done my part to positively influence those within my path.

What advice would you give to other students considering NC State's ECE program?

I would say go for it. It was one of the best decisions I made. The connections you make will help shape you into a great human being. Lean on those around you and take pride in being part of the Pack.

How do you plan to celebrate your graduation?

I’m looking forward to celebrating graduation with my friends, family and all those who made this possible. I have countless people to thank and whom I owe the world too. I just hope I can bask it in and repay the favor in some form one day.

What's next for you?

I'm excited to continue my education in the accelerated Master’s program in Electrical Engineering, with plans to graduate in December 2026. As to the future, whether in soccer, engineering, or business, I hope to be a leader of people. I have a true passion for leading, helping others, mentoring and being a genuine person. I hope to enact change in those around me and continue to grow as a person.