Community College League
of
California
2014
Phi Theta Kappa
All-California Community College
Academic Team Awards
2014 Phi Theta Kappa
All-California Community College
Academic Team Awards
Luncheon Program
• Music, American River College Jazz Collective
• Introductions
• Recognition of the All-California Academic First, Second and Third Teams
• Award Presentations
• Closing
About Phi Theta Kappa
All-California Community College Academic Team Program
Building on the success of the national All-USA Team Program, Phi Theta Kappa launched the All-State Academic
Team Program. The purpose of this program is to provide recognition at the state level for these top community
college students.
This year, 25 California community college students were selected for the All-California Academic First Team, 26
students for the Second Team and 26 students for the Third Team. The Community College League of California
is proud to sponsor this award ceremony at which all team members receive medallions of honor and a certificate
recognizing their accomplishments.
Grades, leadership and community service determine selection to the All-California first, second and third teams. The selection for the All-California teams was determined by the scores nominees received
from Phi Theta Kappa judges at the national level selecting winners for the national academic teams. These 76
students represent some of the best of the two million students enrolled in California’s 112 community colleges.
California’s community colleges underwrite their students’ success daily. The most diverse student body in higher
education succeeds every day by completing associate degrees and certificate programs; getting jobs; transferring
to baccalaureate programs; or furthering a lifelong habit of learning. Even though community college funding is
limited – and funding per student is less than any other higher education institution in the state – dedicated and
professional community college faculty and staff keep service to students their number one priority.
All-California Academic 1st Team
Meelad Amouzgar
American River College
GPA: 3.9
Major: Biochemistry
Meelad Amouzgar was born in the
Bay Area but has spent the majority
of his life in the Central Valley. He will
be transferring from American River
College to a University of California in the fall of 2014 to
complete his B.S. degree in biochemistry. While attending
ARC, he has had the pleasure of working as a tutor and
later, program assistant, in the Mathematics, Engineering
and Science Achievement center on campus. He also had
the honor of being selected as a STEM Scholar in 2013.
After obtaining his bachelor’s degree, Meelad intends on
continuing his education by completing medical school
so that he may enter a field of medicine, specifically
anesthesiology. During his scholastic journey, he has had
the opportunity to partake in various volunteer programs
such as California Connects, and he takes great pleasure
in devoting his time to assisting members of his community.
Aaron Anderson
Orange Coast College
GPA: 4.0
Major: Aerospace Engineering
Aaron Anderson is currently completing
lower division course work at Orange
Coast College and plans to transfer to a
four-year university in the fall of 2015 as
an aerospace engineering major. After graduation he hopes
to establish a career in the aviation industry. When Aaron
is not working, studying or at school, he spends most of his
free time volunteering. Working with Habitat for Humanity of
Orange County and the Boys and Girls Club allows him the
opportunity to give back to the people of his community.
Krishna Lou Ayungao
Los Angeles Pierce College
Age: 20 • GPA: 3.74
Major: Business and Anthropology
Krishna Lou Ayungao is an international
student from the Philippines. She is a
California Ed Walsh Service Awardee
and one of the 2013 Coca-Cola
Leaders of Promise. She was chosen as a speaker for the
International Youth for Human Rights Summit in Belgium.
She has organized the biggest events at Pierce College
and implemented diversity and community welfare projects
as the Associated Students Club Council president. She
is a human trafficking abolitionist and an ambassador for
several anti-human trafficking organizations. Krishna will be
graduating this semester with an associate degree in social
and behavioral sciences and business administration. She
hopes to transfer next semester and be an anthropology
professor at the University of the Philippines someday.
Rozhon Badiozamani
San Diego Miramar College
Age: 19 • GPA: 3.78
Major: Physiological Sciences
Rozhon Badiozamani serves as
president and treasurer of the Beta
Iota Lambda Chapter of the Phi Theta
Kappa Honor Society. She is enrolled
in the Honors Program at San Diego Miramar College
and has been featured in district and local community
newsletters and magazines. Rozhon loves to work with
children and focus on providing charity work for children
in need. She hopes to transfer to UCLA for pre-med and
then to Columbia University to pursue medical school.
She dreams of one day traveling to third-world countries
and establishing children’s hospitals and/or clinics, as well
as a teaching program for those who are native medical
professionals.
All-California Academic 1st Team
Christopher Burgess
Butte College
Age: 35 • GPA: 3.87
Major: Physics
As a father of three boys, Christopher
Burgess came to Butte College at the
age of 30 with an 8th grade education.
In the fall, he will be transferring to a UC
with degrees in mathematics and physics. Ultimately, he
hopes to acquire his Ph.D. in physics and intends to teach
and conduct physics research at a research university.
He is the vice president of Honors in Action for the Butte
College chapter of Phi Theta Kappa where he has been
recognized as the chapter’s “Most Distinguished Officer.”
Christopher also represents both Phi Theta Kappa and the
Mathematics Science and Engineering Achievement Club
on the Butte College Inter Club Council.
Ulises Castellanos Montes
Cañada College
Age: 21 • GPA: 3.81
Major: Biochemistry/Neuroscience
Ulises Castellanos Montes is a
supplemental instructor for general
chemistry and volunteer tutor for
organic chemistry. He participated in the
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematic (STEM)
Institute at Cañada College where he introduced high
school students to all the different STEM disciplines. As a
result of this program, Ulises also became co-author of a
paper that will be displayed in the 2014 American Society
for Engineering Education (ASEE) Journal. He has also
been a math tutor for the Math Jam program at his school.
In addition, he is also a student panelist for the Migrant
Youth Program where he shares his story with other first
generation students. Ulises is a member of the Leadership
Education for Aspiring Physicians (LEAP) at Stanford
Medical School. His biggest dream is to be the first in his
family to finish college and then go to medical school,
where he wants to study internal medicine and give back to
the community.
Kelly-Anne DeAngelis
Mt. San Jacinto College
Age: 51 • GPA: 3.86
Major: Psychology
Kelly DeAngelis offers her sincere
gratitude for this recognition and honor.
She has reached the amazing age of
51. She grew up in Glendora, California
and typically enjoys the outdoors. Kelly was in dance for
ten years: ballet, tap, Hawaiian, and took lessons in baton,
tennis, and gymnastics. She was a cheerleader in school
as well. After school came work, a couple marriages, a
family with four of my own children, and now she has four
beautiful grandchildren. When Kelly returned to school after
a hiatus in excess of 30 years, she did so in the spring of
2010 with great hesitation. Despite the challenges, it is
rewarding. She currently holds a GPA of 3.86 and joined
Phi Theta Kappa at Mt. San Jacinto College. She works
a few hours as a student aid in the Disabled Students
Program Office and enjoys a dog-walking job that ensures
she gets outdoors 2-3 times a week. Kelly will transfer
this fall to a university to earn a bachelor’s degree in
psychology. Her final goal is to obtain a doctorate degree in
psychology, and after working in the field for a time, wishes
to return to school as a professor to teach psychology.
Craig Dermody
College of the Canyons
Age: 20 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Political Science
Craig Dermody was born and raised
in Santa Clarita, California. During
his senior year of high school, Craig
studied abroad in Italy where he was first
inspired to pursue international politics. During his time at
College of the Canyons, he has maintained a perfect 4.0
GPA and served as president of the International Club. In
addition to being very active in Phi Theta Kappa, Craig is
an award-winning veteran of the college’s Model United
Nations club; most recently having won the Security
Council Best Delegate award from the Cal State Long
Beach conference. Upon transfer, he plans to continue
studying international economics, security, and diplomacy.
Over the summer, he will spend ten weeks working at
the U.S. Embassy in Kampala, Uganda. After serving
for many years in the American Foreign Service, Craig’s
ultimate career goal is to be awarded the rank of career
ambassador.
All-California Academic 1st Team
Sarah Farmer
San Diego Mesa College
Age: 21 • GPA: 3.95
Major: Psychology
Sarah Farmer is double-majoring
in psychology and social work, and
currently attends San Diego Mesa
College. There she serves as the
Associated Student Government vice president, Honors
Club president, and vice president of fellowship of the
Phi Theta Kappa Beta Beta Upsilon chapter. Sarah also
sits on nine campus-wide committees as the appointed
student representative, is involved with various other clubs,
and a member of her campus Psi Beta chapter, which is
the psychology-based honors society. Off campus she is
an avid volunteer at the Escondido Humane Society, a
member of her local youth group, and co-chairs the San
Diego Fiction Writers group. In her free time, she enjoys
hiking, archery, and creative writing. After graduating with
an associate degree in psychology at the end of spring
2014, she intends to transfer to a four-year university to
one day attain a Ph.D.
Rebecca Grace
College of the Desert
Age: 25 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Chemistry
Holly Highfill
Santa Barbara City College
Age: 21 • GPA: 3.88
Major: English
Holly is an English major intending on
transferring to UC Berkeley in the fall.
After being rewarded her bachelor’s
degree, Holly hopes to further her education by attending
a top-tier law school and earn a J.D. specializing in
intellectual property law. Holly has spent her time at SBCC
as the president of the SBCC Honors Program as well as
the vice president of the Beta Gamma Upsilon Chapter
of Phi Theta Kappa. She will leave SBCC with an Honors
Certificate in Humanities and Social Sciences, as well as
three associate degrees in: English, liberal arts with an
emphasis in social and behavioral science, and liberal
arts with an emphasis in arts and humanities. Holly’s
primary extracurricular focus this semester has been
her involvement with the Political Science Sacramento
Internship Program. Holly will take 30 students to the State
Capitol this year; her largest and final contribution to Santa
Barbara City College.
Alysa Joerger
Sierra College
Age: 20 • GPA: 4.0
Major: English/Psychology
Alysa Joerger is a student at Sierra
College, who will graduate this spring.
As a student, she has explored a variety
of interests, which has earned her
four associate degrees, and she will be completing a fifth
degree in the summer. Alysa wishes to continue studying
creative writing and psychology. She has applied to three
University of California schools: Davis, Irvine, and San
Diego. At Sierra College, Alysa is an active member of the
campus. In addition to her Phi Theta Kappa chapter, she is
involved in several student clubs. Some of the clubs relate
to her passion for human rights, including the Rainbow
Alliance. Other clubs relate to her passion for writing,
including the Creative Writers Association, which she
founded with some of her classmates. Outside of school,
Alysa spends much time with her family and her friends.
Her passions include writing, reading, and playing video
games.
James Keogh
Ohlone College
Age: 39 • GPA: 3.51
Major: Administration of Justice
James Keogh received his Associate of
Arts degree with honors in administration
of justice last semester. He is currently
finishing two more classes, where he
will obtain a second Associate of Arts degree in human
development and is on track to graduate with highest
honors. In addition to these academic achievements he
was selected to join Phi Theta Kappa honor society in
the spring 2013 semester. He is also currently serving as
the local chapter president. James plans on transferring
to CSU East Bay next fall quarter 2014, where he will
major in economics-social science option and minor
in environmental studies. When asked what career he
might like, he hopes he will get a career in environmental
economics and will be able to affect policy changes and get
companies to utilize sustainable resources better. James
also volunteers with the East Bay Parks Trail Safety Patrol
in his spare time.
All-California Academic 1st Team
Fariba Kianmajd
American River College
GPA: 4.0
Major: Biochemistry
Fariba Kianmajd intends to major in
biochemistry. She is currently enrolled
at American River College where she
has taken basic science courses. Her
interest in biology was sparked from participating in the
Biotechnology Club, which she began attending in the
second semester of her freshman year. The club provided
her first exposure to a lab and the opportunity to do a
variety of biology experiments. Fariba joined MESA, which
provided her with opportunities to explore more about her
field of interest. She was very fortunate to be selected
to participate in the TTE-REU research at UC Berkeley
in summer 2013. This experience not only prepared her
academically, but also to feel confident in her own logic and
problem-solving abilities. After that experience, she is even
more passionate and confident that she can successfully
transfer as a biochemistry major.
Sarah Mosqueda
Porterville College
Age: 24 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Liberal Arts with emphasis in
Behavior and Social Sciences
Sarah Mosqueda is a life-long resident
of Porterville and is finishing her last
semester at Porterville College. After
taking a few years after high school to pursue a license
and work as a cosmetologist, she made the decision to
go to college. Throughout her years at Porterville College,
Sarah has been employed full-time with the local school
district, working with various ages of students, ranging
from preschool through high school. Sarah will graduate
this spring with an associate degree in liberal arts, with
an emphasis in behavior and social sciences. In addition
to attending college full-time and working, Sarah has
spent countless hours involved in various community
activities with her five-year-old daughter. Such activities
have included youth softball, basketball, dance classes,
gymnastics lessons and cheerleading. Most of the
time, Sarah brought her course textbooks along to her
daughter’s practices and was able to advocate to others
the importance of obtaining an education and the ease
of registration Although Sarah’s volunteering hours are
limited, she has participated in various Phi Theta Kappa
events on the Porterville College campus. Sarah has been
listed on the President’s List of Porterville College and has
worked hard to maintain a 4.0 GPA. She plans on furthering
her education upon transfer to UC or CSU and pursuing a
career in computer engineering. Sarah would like to thank
Phi Theta Kappa, Porterville College and everyone who
has made this memorable luncheon possible.
Maureen Njuguna
Mt. San Jacinto College
Age: 24 • GPA: 3.947
Major: Chemical Engineering
Maureen Njuguna recently completed
the daunting task of applying for transfer
to four-year institutions. She must say
that she had previously underestimated
the pressure and stress that came along with that process.
Lucky for her, the range of programs she is a part of at
her college, Mt. San Jacinto, had thoroughly prepared
her for this important part of her academic journey. By
the end of this semester Maureen will have completed
six honors classes and also served as Phi Theta Kappa
officer twice (service and correspondence secretary.)
Both of these programs have made her a more detailoriented individual. In the fall, she hopes to transfer to the
University of California, Berkeley to obtain a bachelor’s
degree in chemical engineering and then proceed to obtain
a doctorate in the same field. She would like to work in the
pharmaceutical industry in the production of medicine for
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
Alina O’Tool
MiraCosta College
Age: 40 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Human Development
Alina O’Tool was born in Poland before the downfall of
communism. While in high school she witnessed victory for
Solidarity, the first free election, transition into democracy
and the fall of Berlin wall. Those events had a big influence
on her, and having lived in different countries makes her
realize that despite of all those cultural differences, people
are very similar and that was what made me care for all
humanity. A few years ago Alina struggled with English
and could not help her children with homework. She could
not accept that status quo and that is why she went to
community college. Now she is transferring to UCSD.
Alina loves learning; it is what her whole life is about. Her
long-term goals are to study in the field of social science,
obtain a Ph.D., and use the knowledge combined with her
experience to solve some of the global social problems like
poverty, inequality, and discrimination.
All-California Academic 1st Team
Michael Ogle
Napa Valley College
Age: 45 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Business-Accounting
Michael Ogle is a re-entry student
embarking on a new career. He was
a software developer until the recent
recession left him without a position.
He realized that this could be an opportunity to pursue
an entirely new path and chose to pursue business
administration and accounting. Michael is very fortunate
to have this opportunity to pursue a new career with the
support of his wife, Jennifer, and daughter, Aria. He is
motivated to make the school experience better for all
students and, as such, was very pleased to join the Phi
Theta Kappa board and later the Associated Students
of Napa Valley College board as well. As a parent he is
honored to set an example for his daughter, such that she
has chosen to join the student council at her elementary
school.
Lauren Rankin
Cañada College
Age: 18 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Accounting
Before graduating as a home-schooled,
high school student, Lauren Rankin
completed all of her transfer and general
education courses, participated in
various campus clubs and followed her passion to serve
others. While president of her chapter of Phi Theta Kappa,
Lauren received international and regional awards for both
the Honors in Action Project and College Project. During
this time, she tutored in mathematics, economics, english
and accounting, sat as the student representative for both
the Accreditation and Honors Transfer Program Committee
at her college, and was employed as a physical education
coach at a low-income elementary school. This current
semester she is living and working with the homeless and
drug addicted in San Francisco as a full-time intern of City
Impact, an organization that intervenes on behalf of the
people of the Tenderloin District. She hopes to use these
experiences to become a more effective leader in the
future.
Marie Schall
Shasta College
Age: 21 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Psychology
Marie Schall’s educational plans for
the future is to go to San Jose State
University, where she will study for a
bachelor’s and master’s in psychology.
Her ultimate goal is to become a psychologist, specifically
dedicated to help troubled kids and teens. If she meets
these goals, Marie will be the first in her family to go to a
university. All the sacrifices her parents made would be
worth it in the end, therefore she must do everything in
her power to make them proud. Marie’s hobbies include:
traveling, socializing, exercising, photography, and planning
events. These last couple of years she’s been involved in
Phi Theta Kappa representing the Beta Mu Mu chapter and
also been involved with the Rotaract club. Both clubs have
opened doors for her and she couldn’t be anymore proud
with all they have accomplished as a team.
Shawnee Stump
College of the Canyons
Age: 20 • GPA: 3.94
Major: Business
Shawnee Stump is a sophomore
majoring in business at College of the
Canyons. She is set to graduate this
spring with an A.S. degree in accounting
and will continue on to Weber State University, in Utah,
this fall in the hopes of graduating with a B.S. degree
in marketing. When asked about what first drew her to
business, she said she loves not just interacting with, but
also understanding people. She sincerely admires the
significance of personal relationships with others. She
attributes much of her success to her father saying, “he
was always the one person in my life who taught me to
think, which may sound silly but, the truth is that it sets me
apart because most people don’t think things through like
they ought to.” When Shawnee isn’t at work or class, she
enjoys rock climbing, dancing, knee boarding, and bungee
jumping with close friends.
All-California Academic 1st Team
Anh Tran
Palomar College
Age: 23 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Psychology
Anh Tran is currently a student at
Palomar College majoring in psychology.
He came from Vietnam and moved to
the United States three years ago with
his family. He is working part-time as a tutor for Palomar
College GEAR UP and has a research internship working
at UCSD Moores Cancer Center since last summer. Anh
also volunteers as a mentor at the Boys and Girls Club
of San Marcos. In addition to his 2013 Summer Science
Enrichment Program Internship at UCSD, Anh received
the Palomar College Foundation Scholarship, the Bill
Sharp/Osher Scholarship, and Tutor of the Year 2012-13
from GEAR UP. His plan is to transfer to UCSD or SDSU
this fall to obtain a bachelor’s degree in psychology and
then he will pursue both a master’s and Ph.D. degree in
psychology. His career goal is to become a psychology
professor in a university.
Irene Yim
Skyline College
Age: 31 • GPA: 3.7
Major: Food Science and
Microbiology
Irene Yim currently serves as copresident of Skyline College’s Society
of Asian Scientists and Engineers
where she encourages students to apply for research
internships and has taught workshops on scientific resume
writing. Irene was the 2013 Annual Biomedical Research
Conference for Minority Students winner in microbiology
for her undergraduate research presentation. She has also
previously served as the president of Skyline College’s
Phi Theta Kappa Chapter Beta Theta Omicron, where
she helped develop a service project for middle school
science programs called SMiLE (Science for Middle school
Laboratory Experience). As the coordinator for SMiLE,
Irene has not only promoted the importance and fun of
hands-on science learning, but has also provided serviceleadership opportunities for Skyline College students.
SMiLE has taught over 600 middle school students. Irene is
double-majoring in microbiology and food science. Prior to
starting at Skyline College, Irene worked as a professional
chef.
Brian Yu
Mt. San Antonio College
Age: 19 • GPA: 3.9
Major: English
Brian Yu is an international awardwinning writer and public speaker. In the
past, Brian has raised over $180,000
dollars for Cancer Research as part
of his city’s Relay for Life Board, as well as donated his
time as a freelance MC to raise over $10,000 for other
charities. Brian has also been a member of the number one
Community College Speech and Debate team in the nation,
winning three medals at the State Championships in 2013.
In 2011, Brian was declared a “Voice of Democracy” by
the Veterans of Foreign Wars Association and in 2012 was
honored at the Gulen Youth Congressional Ceremony in
Washington D.C. for his essay on child hunger in which he
talked about his experience growing up on food stamps. In
the future, Brian hopes to make an impact upon the world
as a screenwriter and hopes that his story will one day be
worth remembering.
All-California Academic 2nd Team
Jesse Bowens
Las Positas College
Age: 20 • GPA: 3.95
Major: Business Administration
Jesse Bowens was born in San Ramon
and has lived in the Tri-Valley her entire
life. She was home-schooled through
high school, which enabled her to
pursue her interests and gain self-confidence and selfesteem. During her childhood, she also developed a love
and passion for tennis and became a competitive tennis
player and coach. While at Las Positas, Jesse has been
involved in the Business Club, the International Business
Association, Alpha Gamma Sigma Honor Society, Mu Alpha
Theta Math Honor Society, and the Student Senate, while
maintaining a 3.95 GPA. Jesse is a very well-rounded
young woman! Jesse states that her experience at Las
Positas has helped her develop relationships and take
advantage of the strong sense of community that is felt
on campus. She hopes to transfer to UC Berkeley, with a
major in business administration.
Maylin Caldwell
Palomar College
Age: 24 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Nutritional Science
Maylin Caldwell was born in Puerto Rico
back in 1990. Growing up she took up
boxing and completed 13 amateur fights,
including three state championships. At seventeen, she joined the United States Marine Corps
and provided humanitarian assistance in the Philippines,
Korea, and Japan. Maylin also spent seven months in
Afghanistan serving as a communicator for a mobile unit. In
college she has organized fundraisers to support children,
promoted student awareness campaigns, and participated
in multiple educational conferences. She works as a tutor in
the STEM center at Palomar College and hopes to transfer
into the nutrition program at UC Davis. In the future, she
hopes to increase human nutrition, better the environment,
and most importantly, serve and educate underrepresented
communities. Her wonderful husband, parents and siblings,
combined with a love for people are what motivates her to
work towards making a positive difference.
Julie Cantrell
Sierra College
Age: 45 • GPA: 3.88
Major: Business Administration &
Accounting
Julie Cantrell is a re-entry student,
first generation college graduate, and
single parent of four amazing children.
Graduating college is a dream come true! In May, she will
graduate from Sierra College with two associate degrees;
one in business administration and one in accounting. She
has been accepted into CSUS business school and William
Jessup University. Julie recently received an invitation to
apply for CSUS honors business school and has done so.
She hasn’t decided where she is transferring to in the fall,
but is indeed going. The journey is a little uncertain and can
be scary, but she is looking forward to the adventure the
future holds. Julie plans to focus her education on human
resource management because she feels that people
are the greatest asset. She enjoys volunteer work and
encourages others to also. It’s never too late to fly!
Edon Cohanim
Los Angeles Valley College
Age: 23 • GPA: 3.9
Major: Economics
Edon Cohanim always enjoyed sports
and, as a former professional fencer,
he still tries to maintain physical fitness
and athletic skills. He regularly works
out at the gym and doing so helps provide balance to his
academic life. He also immensely enjoys reading books,
especially while sitting in the backyard basking in the
California sun. Edon started his college career at Cerro
Coso Community College and then transferred to Los
Angeles Valley College. During his time at LAVC, he has
placed an emphasis on performing well academically,
making the Dean’s List with a 4.0 GPA, while at the same
time being an active participant in campus life. This year
Edon was elected treasurer of our PTK chapter after
being a member the previous year. His dream is to one
day have a career in public service where he can use his
life experience and education to help promote social and
economic progress.
Armando Contreras
Cerro Coso Community College
Age: 19 • GPA: 3.82
Major: Liberal Arts: Arts and Humanities; Social and
Behavioral Sciences; Mathematics and Science
All-California Academic 2nd Team
Katrina Craton
Butte College
Age: 21 • GPA: 3.88
Major: Social Work
Katrina Craton is a board member at the
Stonewall Alliance Center, an LGBTQ+
non-profit and resource center and a
former radio programmer at KZFR 90.1
FM, a community supported radio station. She majors in
social work and plans to transfer to a university in the Bay
Area or the East Coast. After completing her undergraduate
education, Katrina wants to continue her work with nonprofits as she pursues a master’s degree. In addition to
community outreach, she plans to become a sociology
professor. Katrina has been an active member of Butte
College’s honors program and is currently creating a
multicultural course for the college as part of her capstone
project. Katrina will graduate from Butte College with three
associate degrees and two certificates of achievement.
Lewis Grimes
Cuyamaca College
GPA: 3.8
Major: Graphic Design
Lewis Mark Grimes has become an artist
since attending Cuyamaca College. His
focus is on feather rishi, a rediscovery
of the ancient Egyptian art of rishi. His
feather rishi is digitally composed using macro photography
of his molted feather collection. The designs are available
in silk scarves; housewares, apparel and wall art will soon
be available online. There are more than fifty fabrics as
well.
Natasha Elizabeth Gunawan
De Anza College
Age: 19 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Business Administration
Melody Gurguis
Pasadena City College
Age: 20 • GPA: 3.7
Major: Speech Pathology/
Communicative Disorders
Melody Gurguis is a sophomore
at Pasadena City College and has
greatly enjoyed her community college
experience thus far. This is her second semester in PCC’s
honor’s program. This past fall, Melody received the
Peter Ryan Scholarship from the PCC Foundation. She
is certified by the National Tutoring Association and tutors
English at PCC’s Learning Assistance Center; this is her
way of giving back to the college for the incredible services
she has received there. Melody served in an untouchables
village in Andhra Pradesh, India last summer and is excited
to have the opportunity to go back this summer. She has
currently been accepted to speech pathology programs
at California State University Fullerton as well as the
Bible Institute of Los Angeles. She hopes to teach English
abroad and aspires to be a speech therapist.
Wendelyn Henry
Shasta College
Age: 47 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Civil Engineering
Wendelyn Henry started college at
the age of 46 and is the first person
in her family to go to college. She is a
working, single mom of two teenage
daughters. They all enjoy volunteering and, collectively,
have volunteered at their schools, Haven Humane,
Riverfront Playhouse and Frontier Girls. Since beginning
her academic journey, she’s made the Dean’s List all
three semesters and maintained a 4.0 GPA. She plans
to complete an A.S. degree in engineering by December
2015 and will transfer to CSU Chico the fall of 2016 to
complete a B.S. degree in civil engineering. Wendelyn
has and will continue to apply for internships related to
the civil engineering field. This will prove invaluable after
she graduates and will help ensure a civil engineering job.
This is her goal: to be self-supporting and active member
of society, and to start a scholarship for disadvantaged
women.
All-California Academic 2nd Team
William Keck
San Diego Mesa College
Age: 42 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Interior Design
William is currently a second-year
student in the interior design program at
San Diego Mesa College, where he has
maintained a 4.0 GPA. As the current
president of the Mesa Interior Design Club, he continues
to use design to advocate for community engagement
and outreach, both inside the college and outside of
it. William is the recipient of the Mesa Interior Design
Program Scholarship as well as two first place prizes at
the department’s annual year-end interior design student
exhibition. Upon completion of his A.S. degree in interior
design, he hopes to, ultimately, launch his own interior
design firm and help build San Diego from the inside out.
He believes that interior design is for everyone.
Ahmad Khalil
Los Angeles Valley College
Age: 19 • GPA: 3.93
Major: Economics
Ahmad Khalil enjoys playing soccer,
basketball, working out, going on
hikes, and hanging out with friends.
He hopes to transfer to the University
of Pennsylvania, Cornell, UCLA, USC, or UC Berkeley
this coming fall. Currently, he is the outreach coordinator
for Education Through Empowerment, a non-profit
organization that helps high school and community college
students reach their academic, personal, and community
goals. He has also begun to explore certain career paths by
participating in the Chartered Financial Analyst Research
Competition in downtown Los Angeles. Along with that, this
summer Ahmad will be conducting research as an intern on
the biotechnology and technology industries.
Ricarda Lathrop
Merritt College
Age: 24 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Health Science
Ricarda Lathrop was born and raised in
Germany and decided to come to the
United States after high school. She
ended up in the Bay Area and after
learning a new language and experiencing a new culture,
decided to stay. Ricarda has been the chapter president
of Beta Theta Lambda at Merritt College since fall of 2013.
She enjoys volunteering at the George Mark Children’s
Hospice, where she has been a volunteer for the last one
and a half years. Her work with the patients has inspired
her to pursue a career in healthcare, so she can give back
to the community and support her mother back home.
Ricarda believes in dedication and hard work and thus has
big goals. She is transferring in the fall to a university and
plans on majoring in health science. Her ultimate goal is to
go to medical school and become a doctor.
Zay Latt
Skyline College
Age: 20 • GPA: 3.91
Major: Political Science
Zay (David) Latt immigrated from Burma
in 2006. He is a second-year political
science major at Skyline College.
Currently, he serves as the student
trustee for San Mateo CCD and represents over 40,000
students at three colleges. He also serves as the vice
president of fellowship for Phi Theta Kappa and has been
an active member since 2012. Previously, he received
a Distinguished Service Award from the PTK chapter at
Skyline College for his active service. Last year, David
started the Model United Nations Club at Skyline College
after participating in it throughout high school. In 2013,
he has received the Geraldine H. Read Memorial Award
from the World Affairs Council of Northern California for his
commitment to student engagement in international affairs.
All-California Academic 2nd Team
Yuen (Leanne) Lee
Napa Valley College
Age: 19 • GPA: 3.8
Major: Computer Science
Yuen (Leanne) Lee has been attending
community college for almost two years.
In these two years, she has been actively
involved in school activities, such as
student government (ASNVC) and Phi Theta Kappa. She
is planning to transfer in the fall of 2014 to a University of
California. Her educational goal is to obtain a Bachelor of
Science degree in computer science/engineering. She is
eager to become a computer support specialist who can
help more people troubleshoot computer problems to close
their gaps in technological knowledge.
Tram Pham
De Anza College
Age: 20 • GPA: 3.9
Major: Psychology
Tram Pham and her family immigrated
to the United States five years ago.
Seeing through her parents’ struggles,
Tram decided to be successful. With
dedication and hard work, she graduated from high
school Magna Cum Laude. She currently attends De
Anza College and majoring in psychology to eventually
pursue a counseling degree in higher education. She feels
through psychology, she can help individuals understand
their meaning of life and solve their life problems. She is
planning to transfer to UCLA in the fall of 2014 and expects
to succeed in her prospective life and career. Tram is an
honors student on campus and a student leader in the
community. She has also served as the vice president at
Alpha Sigma Alpha Chapter for two years. In her free time,
she likes to read books, write fiction, and help out her
family. She is always ready for new challenges in life.
Dianna Ratsamy
San Diego Miramar College
Age: 20 • GPA: 3.88
Major: Psychology
Since Dianna Ratsamy’s first semester in
college, she has been an honors student.
She has earned twelve honors units and
is currently working on completing six
honors units at Miramar College. Moreover, she also works
as the honors information assistant for Miramar College’s
Honors Program. In addition, she is the vice president
and public relations secretary for the Phi Theta Kappa
chapter at Miramar College. As public relations secretary,
Dianna enhances her confidence in public speaking from
oral speeches in classrooms, outdoors, and auditorium
settings. Likewise, as Phi Theta Kappa’s vice president,
she develops her leadership and networking with other
campus clubs by attending Associated Student Council
meetings at the college to represent her club. She seeks to
transfer to one of the following universities next semester to
pursue my bachelor’s degree in psychology: UCB, UCLA,
or UCSD. Afterwards, Dianna aims to apply for graduate
school to earn a Ph.D. in psychology.
Esperanza Ruiz
Santa Ana College
Age: 33 • GPA: 3.7
Major: Economics
Esperanza Ruiz is a single mom who
enjoys very much being a student. She
has come across many paths in life
and at this particular moment she really
wants to be here in school where she can further develop
as an educated person. Her current activities include Phi
Theta Kappa, where she holds the office of treasurer, in
addition she also tutors in economics. When Esperanza
is not studying she volunteers at her daughter’s school
on a weekly basis. These activities have helped her to
understand what it’s like to be part of a community and how
easily she can give back. As for a major, she has chosen
the field of economics. This field of study has enabled her
to understand there are externalities that decisions create
and with this understanding plans to take her education
even further and pursue a degree in business law.
All-California Academic 2nd Team
Christopher Soriano
Long Beach City College
Age: 20 • GPA: 3.9
Major: Biological Sciences
Christopher Soriano is a Long Beach
Rotary Scholar, and also an Ebell of Los
Angeles Scholar. He is a president’s
ambassador to Long Beach City College
(2013-2014) and a member of the Honors Club at Long
Beach City College. He attributes his successes in the
future to LBCC because they paved the way to a brighter
future he didn’t know was possible. Christopher thanks
PTK for this very appreciated recognition and is thankful
to represent Long Beach City College as a California
academic team member. His plan is to transfer to UCLA
and major in microbiology, immunology and molecular
genetics to obtain a B.S. degree. He will then continue his
education in medical school to become a physician. When
not studying for classes, he interns at St. Francis Medical
Center and works as a clerical assistant to the former
chairman of the Ebell of Los Angeles.
Helene Turcotte
College of Marin
Age: 51 • GPA: 3.93
Major: Business
The first time Helene Turcotte went to
college, she dropped out to join the
circus. The performing arts school
in Montreal was in its infancy; circus
enthusiasts and creative people gathered together to
reinvent circus arts. She was one of their first students
to get international recognition. Helene and her trapeze
partner won a gold medal at the “Festival du Cirque de
Demain” in Paris, which propelled their career on the
old continent as accomplished professional artists. They
performed to great extent at the most prestigious venues in
the circus world, but after two shoulder surgeries, Helene
had to retire and reinvent herself. She always thought
she would go back to school one day to finish her degree.
Since she was successful at leading her own performing
company, Helene chose a business major to further her
skills. She is hoping to transfer to UC Berkeley in the fall
and major in accounting.
Jessie Warme
College of the Canyons
Age: 19 • GPA: 4.0
Major: International Relations
Jessie is service-minded, academically
motivated and focused on a global
perspective. She serves as vice
president of College of the Canyons’
award-winning Model United Nations team and as secretary
of the Alpha Nu Xi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. She also
works as a math tutor on campus and volunteers for her
local high school’s speech and debate team. Last summer,
she travelled to Nicaragua through her school to install a
water tank into an elementary school and will be returning
this June. This fall semester, Jessie hopes to transfer to her
dream school, UC San Diego, and eventually work for the
U.S. State Department, shaping international policy.
Alison Yule
Sacramento City College
Age: 20 • GPA: 3.94
Major: History/Liberal Arts-Social and
Behavioral Sciences
Ali Yule is a California community college
student who, most days, spends time
juggling obligations such as being a
student, employee, sister, teacher and friend. In her free
time, she is a passionate athlete, a closet baker and a
relentless dreamer. Currently, she is pursuing an education
in history at Sacramento City College. She looks forward
to graduating with two associate degrees in the spring of
2014. In the fall, she plans to continue her education at a
University of California institution. Someday, Ali aspires to
make a living as a writer and college professor. Perhaps if
there’s time, she will have a bakery on the side.
All-California Academic 3rd Team
Joseph Baeza
Porterville College
Age: 20 • GPA: 3.62
Major: Mathematics
Joseph Baeza, who usually goes by Jo, is currently a
student at Porterville College and intends on transferring
to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. His major at Porterville
College is mathematics and plans to transfer into a pure
mathematics or applied mathematics degree at Cal Poly.
At Porterville College he is member of Phi Theta Kappa, as
well as a tutor. Jo tutors all levels of math up to calculus.
After his time in college, he would like to have a career in
teaching. He would like to teach calculus at a high school
or a community college. He enjoys helping others with math
and also has a strong passion for the subject. Jo would like
to instill that same passion into his future students as well.
Cameron Bauer
Diablo Valley College
Age: 21 • GPA: 3.8
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Cameron Bauer is enrolled at Diablo
Valley College in order to pursue a
degree in mechanical engineering. He
demonstrates leadership through his role
as president of the Beta Pi Iota Chapter of the Phi Theta
Kappa Honors Society. While working on coursework,
Cameron is also employed by Diablo Valley College as a
math tutor. His goal is to help students increase their skills in
math classes ranging from algebra to multivariable calculus
and differential equations. Cameron strives for academic
excellence and looks forward to transferring to a university
where he will complete his bachelor’s degree. He plans on
continuing his education by attending graduate school and
obtaining a master’s degree in engineering and business.
Sarah Conway
Cuyamaca College
Age: 17 • GPA: 3.715
Major: Computer Science & Information
Sarah Conway’s educational objectives
are to obtain an associate degree in
computer science and information with
a specialty in network administration
at Cuyamaca College. Upon completion, she intends to
transfer to UCSD or the University of Aachen in Germany
to pursue a major in computer science and information.
An additional educational objective is to obtain several
certifications, including the CCNA, CEH, Network+,
Security+, A+, and Linux+, to acquire further knowledge in
her field. Sarah’s career goals are to assist the technical
side of security in companies by becoming an ethical
hacker in the computer security field and to play violin
and viola professionally, as well as continue teaching both
instruments.
Mildred Correa
Pasadena City College
Age: 19 • GPA: 3.6
Major: Graphic Design
For Mildred Correa, life is a learning
experience. Experiences she’s learned
much from include internships at the
Levitt Pavilion Pasadena; Armory
Center for the Arts; Waste Less Living, Inc.; People for the
Ethical Treatment of Animals; and she’s glad to have had
the opportunity of working alongside people who strive to
change the world for the better. Upon graduating from the
Graphic Communications Academy at Pasadena High,
and receiving certificates for her advancements in the
field, she plans on transferring to the Art Center College of
Design. She will graduate and use her vast design skills
and experiences to create a positive change in, not only
the design world, but Earth as a whole by supporting an
individual or organization whose efforts will greatly benefit
their community somehow; whether it’s through art, music,
awareness of a cause, or to teach others.
Channing Gallardo
Los Angeles Southwest College
Age: 17 • GPA: 3.827
Major: Physician’s Assistant
Channing Gallardo is proud to be a
student from Southwest College, a
part of the Los Angeles CCD. She has
attended Southwest College since
the spring semester of 2012 and has completed her
Associate’s Degree in Liberal Studies with an emphasis
in teaching preparation. She has been honored to be a
member and the vice president of the Phi Theta Kappa
Honor Society, since the spring semester of 2013. In
addition to her leadership within the honor society, she is
excited to be able to participate in the leadership team at
her church, Journey of Faith. Channing is a passionate
follower of Christ and loves expression through the
mediums of photography, dance, and art. She has loved
working during the past year as an art teacher for preschool children. Channing is planning on transferring to a
four-year university to complete her bachelor’s degree with
the goal of becoming a Physician’s Assistant.
All-California Academic 3rd Team
Vincent Garrett
Merritt College
Age: 38 • GPA: 3.75
Major: Sociology
Vincent Garrett is the Inter Club Council
(ICC) chair for the Associated Students
of Merritt College (ASMC). He has been
in this position since October 2013.
Prior to that, he was an associate justice with the ASMC
and recording secretary for the ICC. He was also an active
member with the Black Student Union and has been an
active member with Phi Theta Kappa since the fall of 2012.
Since coming to Merritt in the Fall 2011 semester, Vincent
has made the Vice President of Student Services Honor’s
List every semester. He graduated with high honors and
four Associate of Arts degrees in May 2013. He began as
a business/economics major, but found sociology more
interesting and rewarding. He plans to transfer to UC
Berkeley in the Fall 2014, as a sociology major. He wants
to get a bachelor’s degree in sociology, a master’s in public
policy and become a social entrepreneur; finding solutions
to the myriad problems our great country faces.
Merhawi Ghebrecristos
Citrus College
Age: 22 • GPA: 3.85
Major: Psycholinguistics
Merhawi Ghebrecristos’s personal
journey out of Eritrea, excelling in college
with the support of his honors professors
and peers, along with being one of the
few students who participated in a Summer Research
Experience, helped to expand his knowledge and equipped
him with the desire to make a difference in the world. He
is serving the community as vice president of service for
PTK Beta Nu Eta. He formed a new club on campus, called
the Language Café, which promotes language learning
and cultural experience. Merhawi’s goal is to transfer to
USC as a psycholinguistics major and pursue a Ph.D. in
Neurolinguistics. USC has one of the best undergraduate
research programs for neuorlinguistcs, which combines
both his interest in languages and neurology. It is his
ambition to go to third world countries and present them
with great opportunities like he has been fortunate enough
to receive in the United States.
Rhea Gibbs
Sacramento City College
Age: 39 • GPA: 3.69
Major: Audio Engineer
Billboard recording artist RT Gibbs
is a performer, a driven educational
leader and an agent for social change
through entrepreneurship. Her company
6CRC, which was recently accepted into CSUS 2014 MBA
Marketing Program to begin beta testing is a Regional
Occupation Program designed to create financial selfsufficiency for multimedia departments in adult education
facilities that are prone to budget cuts. It will offer realtime professional opportunities to students, building a
solid bridge from community college to an aggressive job
market in competitive industry sectors. RT’s short-term
goal is to acquire an A.A. degree in audio engineering.
Her long-term goals include pursuing grants for scientific
research, furthering her education into modern medicine
and the use of non-invasive sound and vibration methods.
Grants will be used to complete her book: (Working Title)
Good Vibrations: What Your Doctor Doesn’t Use During
Diagnosis and Treatment but Should.
Chase Goldsmith
Citrus College
Age: 22 • GPA: 3.53
Major: Biology
Chase Goldsmith is a biology major and
dreams the dream that many before
him have had. He wants to advance
the human condition and has begun
to do this with the help of Phi Theta Kappa; for example,
work done via the Honors in Action project and various
other activities that this prestigious organization has been
apart of. In this organization Chase has attained the officer
position of vice president of fellowship and, through this
position, completed work that has made him a stronger
individual. He thanks the Phi Theta Kappa organization for
all it has done for him and plans to continue towards his
goal with the skills that the organization has given him.
All-California Academic 3rd Team
Daphne Gunawan
Irvine Valley College
Age: 20 • GPA: 3.88
Major: Computer Science
Daphne Gunawan is a second-year
student at Irvine Valley College planning
to transfer to UCLA to pursue a
bachelor’s degree in computer science.
She currently holds the position of vice president of
leadership at our school’s Alpha Omega Mu chapter. She
has a huge interest in graphic design and would like to
someday combine her programming and design skills to be
a user interface designer for mobile and web applications.
Badminton is her favorite sport and was a part of Irvine
Valley College’s intercollegiate women’s badminton team.
Madison Hughes
College of Marin
Age: 22 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Nursing
Currently Madison Hughes is a student at College of
Marin, where she has been completing pre-requisites for
nursing. For the last year she has been tutoring chemistry,
physiology, microbiology and political science at College
of Marin. Madison hopes to transfer to a nursing school
next fall and her number one choice is University of San
Francisco. She hopes to receive her Bachelor of Science
in nursing and, after graduating, would like to work at a
hospital in the Bay Area, like UCSF. Tutoring has helped
her realize that she loves to help other people and
can’t wait to become a nurse and care for others as her
profession.
Corena Longland
Cosumnes River College
Age: 40 • GPA: 3.79
Major: Liberal Studies/Child
Development
Corena Longland’s educational goal is
to transfer to CSUS in the fall of 2015
and complete her degree in education.
Upon completion she plans to attend graduate school,
specializing in educational leadership. It is her aspiration
to work in the educational field, as well as utilizing
her advocacy skills in public policy. While a student at
Cosumnes River College, she was awarded a Certificate
of Achievement from the Extended Opportunity Program
& Services for Outstanding Academic Achievement of
Honors, 2012-2013. She enjoys teaching and giving back
to the community. Corena is currently a tutor in the Reading
Partners program at a local elementary school. In her down
time, she gardens, raises chickens, and refinishes furniture.
Peter Kenji Lopez
Long Beach City College
Age: 19 • GPA: 4.0
Major: Business Administration
Peter Kenji Lopez is studying business
administration at the University of
Southern California. He transferred in
the spring of 2014 from Long Beach
City College. He joined Phi Theta Kappa on campus and
became vice president and treasurer during this time. He
also joined Alpha Gamma Sigma, President’s Ambassadors
and Viking Volunteers. Peter was selected as a CocaCola Leaders of Promise Scholar in 2013 and was on the
Dean’s List with great distinction for three semesters. He
was accepted into the Honors Transfer Council of California
Student Research Conference, his research titled “Labor
Unions: An Economic Perspective” was published in 2013.
For the last couple of months, he has been working at the
Long Beach Small Business Development Center as a
global trade & logistics intern. He wants to pursue an MBA
and become a consultant. After retiring from the private
sector, Peter hopes to teach business at Long Beach City
College.
Stephanie Ly
Irvine Valley College
Age: 20 • GPA: 3.61
Major: Geography/
Environmental Studies
Stephanie Ly is currently a student
at Irvine Valley College and will be
graduating in the spring of 2014 with
an associate degree in social and behavioral sciences.
She will be transferring to a four-year institution to study
environmental science with an emphasis on policy. By
nature, she loves and worships the great outdoors. She
is the happiest when camping under stars, hiking to
new heights, biking the coast, kayaking, water rafting, or
traveling. Although Stephanie is an environmentalist, she
adores hedgehogs (an invasive species in the state of
California) and shamelessly obsesses over them. In the
future, she would personally like to research hedgehogs
as an invasive species and depending on the results of
the study, make hedgehog ownership legal in the state. Of
course, she has every intention of making California the
pioneer in environmental policy by working for the state
government, too.
All-California Academic 3rd Team
Ryan McPeters
College of the Canyons
Age: 17 • GPA: 3.8
Major: Physics, Math, Engineering
Ryan McPeters is a young college
student completing his third year at
College of the Canyons while working to
obtain degrees in mathematics, physics,
and engineering. He graduated from high school at the
age of 15 and started attending College of the Canyons in
summer of 2011. While at College of the Canyons he has
dedicated much of his time to being active on campus,
holding positions of responsibility in two honor societies,
three on-campus clubs, and serving on College of the
Canyon’s Honors Program Steering Committee in capacity
of student representative. Ryan McPeters has plans of
transferring to Caltech and eventually obtaining a Ph.D. in
physics. After completing his degrees, he plans to become
a professor and researcher at a university where he hopes
to inspire minds and make the world a better place.
Kristen Payne
Long Beach City College
Age: 37 • GPA: 3.926
Major: Communications & Accounting
Kristen is a Southern California native
and grew up in the Long Beach area.
After high school she had a successful
career as a television production
manager and traveled extensively for work. In 2011, she
enrolled at Long Beach City College and quickly immersed
herself in the campus community. Kristen is a member of
the LBCC Honors Program, PTK Honor Society, serves
on the ASB cabinet, and several district committees in
addition to working in the school’s Federal Work Study
program. She has been honored with the President’s
National Volunteer Service Award and LBCC’s highest
honor, the prestigious Viking Award. Kristen is majoring
in both accounting and communications at LBCC with
plans to pursue her B.A. degree and master’s degree. She
enjoys golfing, laughter, and discovering the world with her
daughter. “How often I found where I should be going, only
by setting out for somewhere else.” -R. Buckminster Fuller
Ivelisse Porroa-Garcia
Mt. San Jacinto College
Age: 22 • GPA: 3.94
Major: Political Science
Almost three years ago, Ivelisse came
to the United States to pursue a better
education. Despite the language
barrier, she has served as a student
government senator and a scholarship officer for the Beta
Delta Omega chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. Last semester,
she invited a Superior Court of Riverside judge to speak on
campus to encourage students to aim high. Currently, she
serves as a student representative in the Honors Faculty
Committee and waits to present her history research paper
on the feminist consciousness at the UCI HTCC Student
Research Conference. Ivelisse plans to transfer to a fouryear university to pursue a major in political science with a
double minor in statistics and Spanish. She is interested in
increasing the participation of women and minority groups
in politics. She also aspires to attend Harvard Law School
and become a judge to represent the ESL community in
California.
Alicia Razo
Fullerton College
Age: 21 • GPA: 4.0
Major: TV/Film Production
Alicia Razo has been involved in Phi
Theta Kappa and served as an officer
for two and a half years. As the public
relations officer, she produced and
directed a documentary showcasing the artists from Hope
University. The purpose of this documentary was to raise
public awareness for adults with disabilities. Working
on this project raised her own awareness for adults with
disabilities. Through the Honors Program, Alicia became an
honors ambassador and worked closely with the college’s
outreach specialist. She learned how to present herself
professionally and talk about her experiences at college
comfortably. Alicia enhanced her public speaking skills
when giving campus tours and, with practice, was able to
lead a group. She plans to study visual digital media at
Chapman University’s Dodge Film program and earn a
bachelor’s degree. In the long run, she will pursue to be a
television editor for a family sitcom.
All-California Academic 3rd Team
Cynthia Robinson
Mt. San Antonio College
Age: 30 • GPA: 3.75
Major: Horticulture
Cynthia dropped out of school when
she was 20, but vowed to return once
she found her calling in life. While
volunteering as a master gardener, she
saw a need in the community for programs that made
healthy food more accessible by encouraging personal
and community gardens, especially in food deserts and
low-income areas. Cynthia returned to school in 2010 to
study horticulture and integrated pest management at Mt.
San Antonio College. Cynthia is in the Honors Program
and has been an officer for the Horticulture Club, vice
president of scholarship for Phi Theta Kappa and strives to
balance being a wife and mother of two, as well as meeting
the challenges of school, work, and giving back to her
community. She hopes to transfer to UC Davis or Oregon
State University to study horticulture and continue to help
build gardens for communities in need.
Sarina Tang
Orange Coast College
GPA: 3.65
Major: Architecture
Sarina Tang is currently taking classes
to fulfill her general education and
lower division coursework while
working towards a bachelor’s degree
in architecture. She plans on transferring to a four-year
university in fall of 2015. Outside of school, Sarina spends
time volunteering for various organizations in the Orange
County area and helps out with her family’s local barber
business. She also enjoys practicing yoga, tennis, and
kickboxing, as well as camping and sketching.
Robert Yang
Fresno City College
Age: 19 • GPA: 3.75
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Robert Yang is a man who lives without
regret. In his leisure, he skis, backpacks,
teaches Sunday School, and acts as
president of the college fellowship group
for his church. In school, he’s a three time Dean’s Honors
List recipient, a California Scholarship Federation Lifetime
Member, National Community College Aerospace Scholar,
and vice president of Scholarship for Phi Theta Kappa. He
is studying mechanical engineering in order to pursue a
career in mobility engineering.