As a child growing up in a communist country, Irén faced the challenge of becoming a well educated person while maintaining the image that the government would try to force upon everyone. She knew she was at a great disadvantage when compared to others, as her family was not as wealthy, and had access to fewer resources than other families. These things did not stop her however. She continued to strive for greatness, and did not give up. With an unfaltering will, and the dedication necessary to achieve her goals, she traveled across the country in search of better education, and a better life. With this, she could become the engineer she wanted to be, and support not only her life, but a family. Iren fought against the odds, and won.