2024 Scholar Highlights

Kaleo Artiom Srianomai

’24, Information Science & Data Analytics, SJSU Online

“Persistence and putting extra effort in will always result in something positive, even if it doesn’t feel that way. Just getting into those types of habits and having discipline goes a long way. Spartans are warriors, and in that aspect, I’d like to think that my commitment to discipline and getting things done represents the Spartan way.”

Tanvi Bellamkonda

’23, Child & Adolescent Development

“Being a Spartan ensures that you belong to a community that values diversity, inclusivity, and the pursuit of knowledge. As a member of this community, I recognize that inclusivity is a fundamental principle that guides our actions, relationships, and undertakings. Being a Spartan has taught me to learn from individuals with diverse backgrounds and to appreciate that our differences enrich our collective experience.”

Alondra Moran-Flores

’24, Communicative Disorders and Sciences

“Receiving this award means so much to me because it speaks towards my dedication and devotion to my academic success. Advice I would give to prospective students is to always believe in yourself and know that you belong. You were given a seat at the table so show them that you can. What makes me a Spartan is my love for helping others and wanting to make a difference in the world.”

Lizbeth Gonzalez-Villegas

’24, Communicative Disorders and Sciences

“I would like to thank all of my professors…in particular, Professor McCollum has been an incredible inspiration to me. In allowing me to work alongside her in her research lab, I’ve discovered a sense of belonging that has been invaluable to my personal and academic growth. Additionally, my daughters have served as constant motivation, acting as a reminder of the purpose behind my work. Lastly, M.L. has been my unwavering pillar of support, providing guidance and encouragement whenever I needed it the most.”

Barbara Boone

’24, Child and Adolescent Development (Teacher Prep)

“Receiving this award is an incredible honor and validation of my journey - beyond what I once thought possible. It symbolizes the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, resilience, and perseverance. This award not only recognizes my academic achievements but also serves as a reminder of the support and encouragement I've received from my family, peers, and mentors along the way.”

Adam Zehm

’24, Accounting & Finance

“The Spartan military was effective, in part, due to the trust in the competency of the person on their left and right within the phalanx formations. Along the way I have led others by example in Beta Alpha Psi and in my classes. Guiding others to a shared victory is more significant than any individual achievement. My gratification is derived from watching my team succeed in their own personal journeys. Building up fellow Spartans to strengthen the whole... that is what it means to be a Spartan.”

Yash Gandhi

’24, Business Admin/Mgmt Info Sys

“After I graduate this spring, one of my biggest goals will be to continue giving back to my fellow Spartans through various avenues. This university has provided me with transformative opportunities and support, and I want to pay that forward to future Spartans. SJSU's vibrant community focused on helping students shape their futures is what makes me a proud Spartan.”

Jordan Larot

’24, Marketing & Business Analytics

“To encourage and inspire others to pursue academic excellence, I would focus on the opportunities that it can provide and the rewards it can bring. It’s about unlocking your potential and seeing how much you can achieve if you work hard every day. My resilience, focus, and desire to succeed as well as my involvement in academic research and extracurricular activities at San Jose State University makes me a Spartan.”

Sabrina Richter

’24, Chemistry/Biochemistry

“As I complete my degree, I can really appreciate why SJSU is considered one of the most transformative universities. The opportunities to learn and grow here are numerous, and they potentiate far beyond the classroom. I hold myself to high standards in every aspect of my education by taking each of these opportunities to the fullest. Doing so has leveraged my personal and professional growth and has given me a skillset which will transcend beyond the duration of my degree.”