Amy Kubat
Master of Fine Arts in Dance: Creative Practice
Honors
Graduating With Honors
GPS Degree: Master of Fine Arts
Parya Saberi
Master of Fine Arts in Dance: Creative Practice
Honors
Graduating With Honors
Debra Lynn Lacey
Master of Fine Arts in Dance: Creative Practice
Honors
Graduating With Honors
Kristie Lauren Martinez
Master of Fine Arts in Dance: Creative Practice
Honors
Graduating With Honors
Kimberly Watson
Master of Fine Arts in Dance: Creative Practice
Honors
Graduating With Honors
Kassandra Lee Tate
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing: Fiction
Hometown
Santa FeMy Greatest Supporters
My family has given me endless love and support. Even though we were separated and I lived far away while I pursued my education, their belief in me gave me strength. My professors and friends at SMC helped me find my path in life. I am who I am today thanks to everyone in my life.
Favorite Saint Mary's Memory
I have many wonderful memories about my time at SMC, but I'm going to miss living on campus. I made so many friends and I learned so much about the world and about myself as a result.
My Next Chapter
I don't know what the future will bring me, but I'm going to grab every opportunity that comes my way. I hope to use what I learned to help others. I can't wait for the adventures that await for me in the next chapter of my life.
Favorite Quote
"I love you and don't let anyone or anything bring you down!" My mother would say this to me a lot growing up. During quarantine, I was reminding myself that I have people who love even though they lived far away. When life throws a curveball at you, you shouldn't let it bring you down. Use it an opportunity to improve yourself and learn something new.
Dakota Haley Valdez
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing: Poetry/Creative Nonfiction
Hometown
Pleasant Hill, California
Rachel Grisi Dugan
Master of Fine Arts in Dance: Creative Practice
Honors
Graduating With Honors
Lacin Keles
Master of Fine Arts in Dance: Creative Practice
Honors
Graduating With Honors
Kiran Bains Sahota
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing: Fiction
Hometown
Yuba City, CAMy Greatest Supporters
My greater supporters come from the huge family that supports me through every reading, publication, and success. But most of all, my great-grandmother and mother who raised me are my greatest inspirations.
Favorite Saint Mary's Memory
I loved being in person and attending readings, grabbing tea from the café, and having workshop with my amazing peers. Even digitally, every moment with them are times I laugh, think, and savor. I will always be grateful to the MFA in Creative Writing program for giving me some astounding and supportive friends, and giving me the best two years of my life thus far.
Favorite Quote
“We have calcium in our bones, iron in our veins, carbon in our souls, and nitrogen in our brains. 93 percent stardust, with souls made of flames, we are all just stars that have people names.”