My family, friends, classmates and specific professors have been my greatest supporters. Christopher and Mary Jones (RD’s of assumption hall) were my first supporters on campus during my freshman year, where they gave me the strength and courage I needed to push through a situation that I was on the verge of giving up on. Dr. Patricia Jackson is another big supporter of mine.
Favorite Saint Mary's Memory
My favorite Saint Mary’s memory was when my theologies of liberation professor (Malik J. Sales) did a freestyle to our class after our final. Another favorite memory (looking back on it now) was when Erin Walsh & I spilled some ether on our gloves due to a defected separatory funnel during organic chemistry lab and we were all panicking LOL.
My Next Chapter
My next chapter in life will include deciphering which specific career field I’d like to go in. When I initially arrived to SMC I planned to be a dermatologist, and I still do, however, I’m also interested in being an environmental engineer! I plan on at least getting my masters in whatever career I end up choosing, so either route I take, I’ll be back in school.
Clubs and Activities
BSU
The Lounge
Gael Sisterhood
Women’s Club Volleyball
I would love to thank my parents, Renee and Jacinto Amaru, and my family for their support and encouragement. My love and admiration for them is immeasurable. I would also like to thank my professors, especially in the Anthropology and Biochemistry Departments for their support, patience, and knowledge. I would also like to express my upmost gratitude for all of my friends and colleagues.
Favorite Saint Mary's Memory
My favorite St. Mary's memory is going on a walk with my new roommate my second year where he showed me the Marian grotto, Our Lady of the Oaks. It is a beautiful area hidden in the grove. It was then that I realized the memories I create here will stay with me long after I graduate.
My Next Chapter
I will be staying here at Saint Mary's College for graduate school. I will be attending the Kalmanovitz School of Education's Single Subject Teacher Credentialing Program. I hope to become a science teacher at the high-school level.
Clubs and Activities
Anthropology Club
La Hermandad
Phi Kappa Phi
Favorite Quote
"Caminante son tus huellas el camino y nada más;
Caminante, no hay camino, se hace camino al andar;
Al andar se hace camino y al volver la vista atrás,
Se ve la senda que nunca se ha de volver a pisar."
— Joan Manuel Serrat after Antonio Machado
Henna Shaghasi
Bachelor of Science: Biochemistry
Minor
Psychology
Honors
Cum Laude
Hometown
Clayton, California
My Greatest Supporters
My family and friends! My family is the reason why I am able to pursue higher education and without them I would not be where I am today. And my friends have always encouraged and pushed me to do better, be better, and to believe in myself at all time. These individuals mean everything to me!
Favorite Saint Mary's Memory
My favorite memories would have to be all the late night study sessions and being in the dorms freshman year!
My Next Chapter
Taking a gap year to gain more clinical experience before applying to medical schools!
Clubs and Activities
Vice President/Public Relations Officer of St. Luke's Pre-health Club
Member of Academic Honors Council
Member of the Saint Mary’s Honors Program
Member of Psi Chi Honors
Haley Fetsch
Bachelor of Science: Biochemistry
Hometown
Saratoga, California
Gabriel Ponce
Bachelor of Science: Biochemistry
Hometown
J/L Ranch; California
Erika Hurtado
Bachelor of Science: Biochemistry
Hometown
Clovis, California
My Greatest Supporters
My family, friends, and professors. Thank you Mom, Dad, Annisa, and Brian for always giving me the support and encouragement I needed, and thank you to my friends for making the past four years fun and memorable.
Favorite Saint Mary's Memory
Being able to be back on campus and see all of my friends after almost a whole year apart!
My Next Chapter
I will be attending graduate school at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, Scotland to receive a Master's in Forensic Science.
Danielle Destefano
Bachelor of Science: Biochemistry
Hometown
Placerville, CA
My Greatest Supporters
My parents Sarah and Chuck that have always supported and encouraged me in all my endeavours, my little brother Chazz who was always willing to listen to my presentations, my aunt Andrea who encouraged me to explore and take time for myself, and lastly Dr. Jeffory Sigman and Dr. James Pesavento for helping me discover my love for working in the lab. Thank you all for all the support!
Favorite Saint Mary's Memory
Getting pho for the first time with Abby and Emma, walking to class with Bula, and all the hours spent studying and socializing in Brousseau.
My Next Chapter
Over the summer I plan to spend some time with family while preparing for my future.