2018 Senior STEM Graduates
What is your name and major?
My name is Annika Gittins, and I am a mathematics and honors humanities double major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Conscientious, Achiever, Kind
Plans in the future?
I would like to attend graduate school later in life and start a full-time career shortly after graduating. I'm currently studying for my first actuarial exam, and will look for positions as an actuarial analyst after taking that exam. My boyfriend and I are planning on staying together and possibly moving to Austin within a year.
Most exciting time in APU?
I got to study abroad in Budapest, Hungary the summer after my sophomore year. I lived in Hungary for almost 3 months, and then traveled from Italy through central Europe up to the UK before returning home. Just the experience of living amidst another culture was priceless, but I also got to do a LOT of traveling. Hungary is in close proximity to several European countries. Consequently, traveling to Rome was just a $35 plane ticket away, rather than the usual $1,000+ to get there from LA. Some of my siblings even met me there and we explored Europe together. I highly recommend living abroad for at least a short time, and studying abroad is a good way to do that. APU makes that possible.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Don't be afraid to work hard. Committing to too many things is an issue, but don't sell yourself short because you want to have an easier time in school. Be ambitious, and live up to the potential that God has given you.
What is your name and major?
My name is Elena Padilla, and I am a Molecular Biology and Honors Humanities double major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Passionate, Joyful, and Creative
Plans in the future?
I plan to take a gap year and work as a medical scribe. My long term goal is to become a physician.
Most exciting time in APU?
I'm not sure if this counts because it wasn't technically at APU, but I loved my study abroad experience. When I was a junior I got to participate in the Living and Learning Ecuador semester through APU. It was was on the most fun times of my life, while also being a challenging and growing experience. In Ecuador, the friends that you take classes with and live with are also rafting in the Amazon jungle with you. The professor who taught us classes would be right next to us, chopping trees with machetes, during our service work for the missionary jungle school. I would encourage everyone, but especially people who want to work in healthcare, to have global experiences. It teaches you an unparalleled level of understanding of humanity and compassion. Science majors often believe they can't study abroad, but with a little bit of planning, it is absolutely manageable.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
My advice for freshman is to get involved with things that you enjoy, rather than things you think may look good on your resume. College is brief and it is not worth it to spend your time participating in things you are not passionate about. This ultimately boils down to the feeling of needing to be or act a certain way. Do not be a science major because you feel like you have to be a doctor. Instead, pursue science because it fascinates you and challenges you to see the world differently. Your college experience can look however you want it to, and releasing the feeling that it needs to look a certain way, may be the most healthy and liberating thing for freshman to do.
What is your name and major?
My name is Caylee Craycroft, and I am a Biology major with an emphasis in Ecology
Three words to describe yourself?
friendly, laid-back, positive
Plans in the future?
I got a job at as a forester at a company in Davis, CA. I am also getting married and moving to Sacramento. Eventually I’d like to get my master’s in either Agricultural Science or some ecology field.
Most exciting time in APU?
Most exciting time at APU would have to be my semester abroad at the High Sierra program. 10/10 would recommend.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
My advice would be study hard and take good notes. Also plan ahead if you want to study abroad. Get to know the professors because they actually care about you and want to help so make sure you talk to them. College goes by real fast so enjoy it.
What is your name and major?
My name Cody Drisko, and I am a Chemistry major with a minor in Mathematics.
Three words to describe yourself?
Dedicated, Self-motivated, and Inquisitive
Plans in the future?
In the fall I will be attending the University of Notre Dame for my PhD in theoretical chemistry. After this, it is up in the air, but I have the eventual goal of becoming a professor.
Most exciting time in APU?
My research professor, Dr. Kevin Huang; my research partner, Silas Griffin; and I were able to publish a paper in a peer-reviewed journal we wrote on our research.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Go talk to your professors early and often. APU is unique in the fact that all the faculty here really want to see you succeed, you just need to show them that you do too.
What is your name and major?
My name is Alissa Matus, and I am a Chemistry major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Ambitious, passionate, and creative.
Plans in the future?
I am absolutely thrilled to have been accepted into the Chemistry Ph. D. program at UC Irvine, and will be starting there this fall. After grad school I am hoping to either continue doing research at a university or in the pharmaceutical industry.
Most exciting time in APU?
Last spring, I had to propose a research project for one of my classes and start a brand new project with my PI at the same time. It was stressful because I had to design original project ideas of my own, and I'd never had such open-ended projects to complete before. I was terrified because I wanted to do an excellent job at both, but I loved the challenge and ended up doing well in both! Not only was I able to come up with interesting ideas that I actually liked, but I also followed through with them. I learned so much during that semester, and it really helped me see that I'd like to pursue research in the future.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
1. Write things down: do not rely on your memory to get each of your assignments done! At the beginning of the semester, take all your syllabi and write down the due dates for every assignment. Then cross each item off as they're completed. You'd be surprised at how satisfying it feels to cross things off your to-do list.
2. Get involved! If you are passionate about something, chances are other people will be, too. Join clubs, go to their events, and make good friends along the way.
3. The Lord is truly your Shepherd, but don't let this be an excuse to live a passive life. While you are a student, allow yourself to be led by Him while also making your education a part of your vocation. Treat your time in school like a great blessing (because it is!) and do not take it for granted.
What is your name and major?
My name is Riley Mast, and I am a Allied Health major.
Three words to describe yourself?
I would describe myself as dedicated, loyal, and thoughtful.
Plans in the future?
My plans are to take a gap year as an EMT in Seattle and then attend PA school.
Most exciting time in APU?
My most exciting times at APU were the moments I spent leading Young Life at Glendora High School and adventuring around California with my roommates.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
My advice for freshmen would be to take full advantage of every class, even if its a GE. So many people write off lower level classes and don't apply themselves. From personal experience, I have found that my most life changing and challenging moments were embedded in each class when I completed assignments and took the material seriously.
What is your name and major?
My name is Hannah Lipka, and I am a Biology major with a Organismal emphasis.
Three words to describe yourself?
Happy, Kind, and Patient
Plans in the future?
My plan for the future is to be a nurse practitioner. After I graduate, I will attend an accelerated BSN program to become an RN. After that, I will work as a nurse and pursue my Masters to become an NP.
Most exciting time in APU?
Sophomore year was one of the most exciting times for me at APU. This was the year I joined Phi Delta Epsilon, became an Alpha Leader, went to Mexico Outreach for the first time (three separate times) and the summer after this year, I went to Kolkata, India. Needless to say, this was the year I made many memories and amazing friendships that mean the world to me.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
My advice for incoming freshmen would be to try as many new things as you can. You will never have so many opportunities at your fingertips at any other point in your life! Also, don't be shy when getting to know your professors. They are not just there to give you educational information. Some of my greatest pieces of wisdom and encouragement have come from my wonderful professors!
What is your name and Major?
My name is Abel De Castro and I am Biology Major with a Organismal Emphasis.
Three words to describe yourself?
Efficient, caring, leader
Plans in the future?
I plan on applying to medical school this coming cycle, but before I matriculate, I plan on working either as a medical scribe or surgical recovery technician for One Legacy. Outside of the classroom, I plan on enjoying my gap year by traveling to a couple of different countries with my family, including the Philippines.
Most exciting time in APU?
I’ve had so many exciting times at APU, so it’s hard to really narrow them down to a single time, but I think my most exciting group of memories happened whenever I was on a mission trip with APU. When I spent a month in India, it was truly a novel experience to be in such a busy city that was so different than any other I had been to before, and also to visit the villages in the outskirts of town and sing worship songs with the people of Kolkata. I was so happy that I was able to play the guitar during praise and worship and see how God was working in different countries.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Be an arrow, not a balloon. Don’t just float through your 4 years without a purpose and don’t be easily taken away by the majority just to fit in. Have a clear direction and a goal in mind. Enjoy your time, but know that there are so many opportunities you will have while at APU! Take full advantage of everything you can (without spreading yourself out too thin) and see what amazing things God can do in your life!
What is your name and major?
My name is Kyle Jancola and I am a Biology major with an emphasis in Molecular Biology.
Three words to describe yourself?
Achiever, Competitive, Analytical
Plans for the future?
After graduation, I will take a gap year and move back to Seattle. I will spend my gap year organizing myself and applying to graduate school. I intend to attend the University of Washington where I will continue my education to earn a PhD in Molecular/Cellular/Genetic Biology.
Most exciting time at APU?
My favorite experience at APU has to be the Summer 2017 when I stayed at APU doing research with the Department of Biology and Chemistry. The cohort of students and professors I worked alongside with in the laboratory became my best friends, my mentors, and my family. Every day we ate lunch together and on Wednesdays (which were declared “Taco Wednesdays”) we’d all pile into cars and drive on over to a local taco shop and flood the small store with 20 hungry students and professors. After hours our APU family would meet to play basketball and two-hand-touch football or to go swimming. And we always made sure to spend our weekends like they were our last. Numerous hiking expeditions and beach excursions occupied all our free time. Suffice it to say, I grew close to friends and mentors I’ll keep for the rest of my life. Summer 2017 was hands-down my favorite, most exciting time at APU.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Get comfortable asking for help! In college, and at APU in particular, students who ask for help and seek to understand their class material beyond their time spent in lectures will be academically successful. APU offers resources most universities cannot: there’s free tutoring for all students in any subject and professors carve out specific, devoted time to helping their students in office hours. Take advantage of these opportunities. You’ll form relationships with some amazing faculty along the way.
What is your name and major?
My name is Patrick Ford and I am a Biochemistry major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Motivated, Easy-going, Genuine
Plans in the future?
My future goal is to graduate from the PA program at USC. I wish to use my talents to help those in need.
Most exciting time in APU?
Finally taking a class with Dr. Prosser!
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Find a good study group. I always found that studying was a lot easier and more impactful with a group of close friends who are just as driven to do well as you are.
What is your name and major?
My name is Jonathan Ming and I am a Computer Science and Honors Humanities double major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Nice, Intelligent, Learner
Plans in the future?
I’m planning on finishing a certification program for pentesting and working in cyber security. In the long term, my girlfriend and I are considering moving to someplace like Austin or Seattle with a lot of career opportunities for us both.
Most exciting time in APU?
Going with Dr. Grissom and the action team of CS students to Namibia was the most exciting experience I had during my time at APU! It was such an incredible experience getting to see God working and using our skills in CS. It was especially exciting to be a part of the very start of the Namibia project, because we got to lay down roots that I’ve gotten to watch grow ever since.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Take a wide variety of electives - really get to know the different areas of focus in your major. In my case, there were so many options for what career path to take my CS degree on, and taking lots of electives helped me find out which types of CS work are my favorites!
What is your name and major?
My name is Charles Henderson, and I am an Allied Health major
Three words to describe yourself?
Loyal, Responsible & Respectful
Plans in the future?
To earn my Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certificate, attend Physician Assistant (PA) graduate school, and then ultimately have a career in emergency medicine.
Most exciting time in APU?
I was fortunate enough to study abroad in Costa Rica (Summer 2017) learning medical Spanish and being immersed into the culture. Also, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as a student-athlete playing baseball for the Cougs.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
I would advise students to not compare themselves to their peers, but instead to strive for goals that fulfill God’s purpose in their life.
What is your name and major?
My name is Ariana Abo and my major is Chemistry.
Three words to describe yourself?
Caring, Dedicated, and Optimistic
Plans in the future?
I plan on attending USC School of Pharmacy in the Fall of 2018 and become a pharmacist when I complete my time there.
Most exciting time in APU?
The most exciting time I have had at APU is being a part of so many communities that APU provides. Being a part of the science department has allowed me to build relationships with professors that have been instrumental to my learning and also, allowed me to connect with amazing students that will last a lifetime. Being a part of the women's basketball team has also allowed me to connect with a close knit group of people that challenge me to become the best student athlete I could be. Also, the spiritual community on campus has allowed me to grow in my faith in a way that might have not been possible if I choose not to go to APU.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Make everyday worth it. Find friends that will support and challenge you to become the best possible version of yourself. College is a different experience for everyone. Most of us come into our first year not knowing where it'll take us, so take your time and enjoy every second here because it goes by way too fast!
What is your name and major?
My name is John Matthew Perry and my major is Organismal Biology.
Three words to describe yourself?
Thoughtful, relational, and dedicated.
Plans for the future?
Currently deciding between accepting an offer of admission from UC Davis or UC San Diego Schools of Medicine and with whichever I choose, I will start this fall. I hope to get both my Medical Degree and my Master’s Degree in Public Health. I am interested in pursuing either primary care medicine or surgery, I am not sure yet. I know I definitely want to serve an underserved population once I start practicing medicine.
Most exciting time in APU?
I feel blessed to have had such amazing experiences here at APU these last four years. I have met some amazing friends and classmates. I have also been able to study under and learn from exceptional faculty. I think an exciting time that really sticks out in my memory was my Action Team Ecuador a few summers ago. During this trip, we were able to shadow in hospitals and help run mobile clinics all while exploring the beautiful jungle in Ecuador. I got to experience an incredible community within my team while seeing God work through our service.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
I have three pieces of advice:
1. When you find a community of friends, learn to rely on and grow with those friends. What a good community of friends looks like is something I feel is important to learn while at APU. So seek out those friends and pursue deep relationships with them.
2. Find a mentor, or even mentors, and learn from them. Ask them questions and open up to them about your life. There is so much wisdom to be gained from mentorships and they will pay off in ways you cannot imagine.
3. Invest in the different programs here at APU. Invest in student life organizations, invest in the department of your major, and invest in ministry opportunities. These are the areas that I have grown the most personally. If you are going to be here for four years, might as well get the most out of this university and its offices as possible.
What is your name and major?
My name is James Kennedy and I am a Biology Major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Focused, Adaptable, and American
Plans in the future?
I will be attending medical school in Fall 2018!
Most exciting time in APU?
The most exciting time I had at APU was my summer research experience with Dr.Tallman. Getting to spend full days devoted to making biological discoveries was both fun and rewarding.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Make sure to enjoy the hard work that you put into your education. College is hard, and will require a lot of work, but doing it with people who motivate and encourage you makes even the toughest days enjoyable.
What is your name and major?
My name is Kevin Bui and my major is Computer Science.
Three words to describe yourself?
Humorous, Personal, and Kind
Plans in the future?
Work at a company and explore as much as I can to help as many people as I can.
Most exciting time in APU?
Going to Africa three years in a row.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Be active! Explore your options. Go for that interview even if you think you're not good enough or if you don't like it because you will never know! After that internship/job you might find yourself somewhere better or your dream job might approach you. Don't settle. Always strive to be better and do good.
What is your name and major?
My name is Nicholas Chera and I am a Computer Science, and Honors Humanities double major and a Mathematics minor.
Three words to describe yourself?
Creative, adventurous, and driven
Plans in the future?
Long term, I want to be a professor. In the short term, I'll be working in Silicon Valley.
Most exciting time in APU?
I think my most exciting experience was the first meeting between the Namibia action team and the Computer Science department at the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST). We had industry professionals and professors from multiple departments together in one room, just dreaming about what we could build. It was the moment when I realized just how powerful technology could be for everyone, not just "developed" nations with big technological infrastructures, and that's what convinced me to stay with the CS major.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Freshman year is probably the most important time to work really hard at your studies in Computer Science because you're getting up and running with the fundamentals. If you nail it Freshman year, you'll be equipped for the rest of college and you can relax a bit more later on. On the other hand, if you don't nail the freshman year classes, it will probably make everything harder down the road.
What is your name and major?
My name is Silas Griffin, and I am a Biochemistry major.
Three words to describe yourself?
The three words that I would use to describe myself would be unique, observant, and jack-of-all-trades
Plans in the future?
My plans for the future include applying to medical school in hopes of becoming a physician. I am not sure of my specialty, but I know that I can figure that out when the time is right
Most exciting time in APU?
One of my most exciting times at APU was when I got to go camping with my hall during freshmen year. We went to Joshua Tree National Park for the weekend, and we bouldered, shared stories, and had a worship session around the campfire. It was an awesome weekend and a great bonding event for the guys on my hall!
Advice for incoming freshmen?
I would advise freshmen to keep an open mind about new opportunities that might appear while at APU. There are a lot of great organizations and events on campus for students to get involved in, and they should definitely do so because four years goes by fast!
What is your name and major?
My name is Marc Abou Assali, and I’m a biochemistry major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Enthusiastic, curious, nerdy
Plans in the future?
I’ll be going to medical school in the fall!
Most exciting time at APU?
One of my favorite seasons at APU was doing research for Dr. Prosser over last summer. It was one of the most exciting times because I was able to be around other like-minded students in the research lab, I got to know the faculty and other students while having tons of fun and learning a lot!
Advice for incoming freshmen?
The most important thing for anybody to do is to find a group with similar goals. Finding people to study with consistently and be around them can guide you in a positive way. Making good friends at APU makes the experience!
What is your name and major?
My name is Rachel Christensen and I am graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Allied Health.
Three words to describe yourself?
I am Empathetic, Joyful, and Adaptable
Plans in the future?
In the Spring, I will begin APU’s Entry Level Master's in Nursing program to be a Nurse Practitioner!
Most exciting time in APU?
Several come to mind:
In Segerstrom, my most memorable moment was spilling my urine in Microbiology Lab. Nothing like spilling your own pee to get the adrenaline pumping. Probably my most embarrassing moment in the Segerstrom laboratories.
I have also loved welcoming new international students to APU every Summer. During international student orientation in August, I have developed relationships with students from places like Brazil, Taiwan, Thailand, and the Netherlands to name just a few. Engaging with new people - especially people different from me - challenges me and brings me joy. My hope is that all new students feel welcomed to this place, a place I have called my home.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
To new students, I would urge you to give yourself grace, rid yourself of fear of failure, and establish rhythms of rest. Give yourself grace. The transition you are making is a big deal. You will not be able to navigate relationships and academics perfectly. Give yourself time to adjust. And don’t be afraid to make mistakes. The most successful people in the world are in fact those who use their failures as learning opportunities. Finally, in the midst of all the exciting things you invest yourself in, establish healthy rhythms of rest. Decide how you will Sabbath and stick to it. Whether it's resting all of Sunday or taking the second half of Friday to break from homework, Sabbathing will be life giving and will make you more productive. You’ve got this!
What is your name and major?
My name is Tina Bergmann and I am a Mathematics major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Compassionate, dedicated, thoughtful
Plans in the future?
Next stop, Grad school! I plan to get my Masters in Education and teaching credential to become a secondary math teacher. APU is my first choice, as I would love to continue my education here. I look forward to the day I can teach others and share the value of mathematics to a classroom full of students.
Most exciting time in APU?
Studying with my math friends (its more exciting than it sounds!) and hanging out with my roommates! The friendships I’ve made have been one of the best parts of my APU experience. I can totally be my awkward self and my friends will still love me! I just know the relationships I have established here will last a lifetime.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Take advantage of all the opportunities APU has to offer. Each and every one of them will allow you to grow into a better version of yourself. If you feel a tug on your heart, listen to it. God is probably trying to tell you something. These four years are special; embrace them.
What is your name and major?
My name is Erica Steuer and I am a Allied Health major with a Psychology minor.
Three words to describe yourself?
Joyous, kind-hearted, and passionate
Plans in the future?
In June 2018, I will begin attending graduate school at the University of Southern California to earn my Master of Arts degree in Occupational Therapy. I am so excited for this opportunity and look to the future with optimism!
Most exciting time in APU?
I would have to say that my most exciting time at APU was participating in the ministry choirs on campus. It wasn't merely being a part of an ensemble that was exciting, it was being a part of a family; a family that loves, supports, laughs, cries, and goes through it all together! I wish I could go back and relive every moment, for I met some of the greatest people I'll ever have the privilege of knowing in these groups. In addition to being able to bond with the men and women of each ensemble, I was able to minister to those around the world: from local churches to retirement homes, for patrons boarding flights at LAX to communities beyond my own front door. These opportunities were so transformative in my life, and I can honestly say that I would not be the woman I am today without these experiences. I have grown so much in faith over the years and have learned to rest on God's great promises in everything that I do, all because of these ministry groups, and for that, I am beyond thankful!
Advice for incoming freshmen?
My advice for incoming freshmen would be to never underestimate God's power to move in every situation in your life! He is present in every circumstance, and sometimes it will take a while to see Him there, but there is no doubt that He is! I have spent the past couple years learning who I am in Christ and what my life means as a faith-follower; I have come to know God and His character the more I seek Him out. It may seem at times that He is not working, but look closely, He is there. Remember to always look for His extraordinary in the ordinary!
What is your name and major?
My name is Bryonna Diaz, and my major is Biology with an organismal emphasis.
Three words to describe yourself?
Honest,Resilient, Hard-Working
Plans in the future?
My dream, since I was five years old, has been to be a doctor. I hope to go to medical school to pursue a residency in pediatrics and eventually a fellowship in oncology. I want to be able to give children and their families hope, as they face a cancer diagnosis. My general goal in pursuing medicine is to remind people that they have the power to seek wellness and that their diagnosis does not define them. Childhood cancer is a monster I want more than anything to play a part in defeating. My time at APU has shown me the passion I have for mission work, so I plan on taking any opportunity that comes my way to do mission work. One item on my bucket list is to visit a country in every continent (except Antarctica, of course). I want to meet new people and try to make a difference wherever I go, because I love volunteering. Wherever I end up living in the future, I want to make sure I stay in contact with friends and family. Also, because life is not all about establishing a career, in the next decade or so I hope to have a family of my own. I love forming relationships, and I look forward to being able to experience a variety of friendships and new relationships, in the future.
Most exciting time in APU?
This is a nearly impossible question to answer, so I am going to try and take the easy way out. I cannot pinpoint one exact experience that has been the most exciting I have had at APU. However, I can honestly say that being able to grow up with the same group of people within the science department has been the most exciting experience I have had. I have come to understand the concept of family in an entirely new light since coming to APU. I never imagined how close I would become with so many wonderful people in the science department. There have countless late nights, early mornings, ridiculous amounts of stress, and many obstacles that I have had to preserver through. However, I know that I could not have done that without my APU family going through all of those things right alongside me. All of the hours spent studying in any room we could find or all of the late night conversations shared about each of our lives have been some of the most valuable experiences I have had. At this point, there is not a classroom in Wilden that I have not fallen asleep in, while studying. Segerstrom has become a home away from home (I call it home #3). Everywhere I walk, on either campus, I relive countless memories that I have shared with my friends in the science department. Game nights, cooking each other dinner, the laughter, and sometimes the tears that we have shared together have become the treasures I hold in my heart. All that to say, I love everyone I have met at APU, because they have made every day an exciting one.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
My advice for incoming freshmen would be, never be afraid to say yes but realize that it is okay to sometimes say no. One of the things that we so easily forget when we get older, is the importance of dreaming big. As kids, we want to build rockets or live in a castle, but as we get older, we often let those around us define the extent of our abilities. Thus, our dreams become much smaller, and we slowly begin to question whether dreaming is even worth our time. I do not want to make any generalizations, but I have seen so many people lose the fire they had in them as a child. I have struggled with this myself. I would tell freshmen never let the fear of failure keep you from reaching for something great. We are capable of more than anyone will give us credit for, because we are God’s beautiful creation. Do not let life put you in a “box.” Do good work, because it is due to someone’s sacrifice that you are getting an education at APU. Seek to be the best version of yourself, because so many people will be blessed because of that. Try new things because you might surprise yourself and grow stronger because you said yes. . Freshmen year is full of events and people that will all be competing for your time. Remember that your health is important. Rest when you need to, and remember that taking some time for yourself is okay. Seek out a solid mentor, because this period will challenge you in many ways. God has you in his hands, so never give up. Your reward is coming. Just remember to never stop fighting for your dreams, and never let anyone stop you from dreaming. You may be young, but God uses the young. Never forget that you are in control of your life, and no one can take that from you.
What is your name and major?
My name is Victoria Carpio and I am a Biochemistry major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Friendly, helpful, and dedicated
Plans in the future?
I will be attending Western University Pharmacy school in the fall.
Most exciting time at APU?
For most of my time outside of classes at APU, I was involved in research. I would say that was a rewarding time for me. I enjoyed learning new things and practicing what I had already learned. It was also a great experience presenting at conferences and research events.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Do not hesitate to approach your professors. They are more than willing to help you!
What is your name and major?
My name is Lorena Martinez and I am a Biology major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Passionate, determined, and positive
Plans in the future?
I am in a two year program with APU called H.I.S. Years, which is where students go share the gospel with unreached people groups around the world. This means we are able to share the gospel with people who have never even heard the name of Jesus. The team I am on is located in East Asia. After H.I.S. Years I will be applying to medical school.
Most exciting time in APU?
The most exciting time I have had at APU was leading an Action Team to Delhi, India this past summer. We got really great opportunities to do clinics in the slum communities and work closely with doctors in the hospitals.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
My advice for incoming freshman is work together with your peers. It's easy to fall into the trap of competing, but if you all work together, you can all succeed.
What is your name and major?
My name is Sophia Choi and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Ambitious, sincere, and good person
Plans in the future?
Pursue my Masters in Computer Science (Computer Security) at USC.
Most exciting time in APU?
Go to Master of Computer Science (Computer Security) at USC.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Do what you want to do enthusiastically.
What is your name and major?
My name is Michaello Ocampo and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Driven, kind-hearted, passionate.
Plans in the future?
Join the U.S. Air Force as an officer .
Most exciting time in APU?
Going to mission trips and serving others .
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Say yes to every opportunity given to you .
What is your name and major?
My name is Justin Rohweller and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Humorous, Athletic, Friendly
Plans in the future?
Work as a software engineer and/or start my own business.
Most exciting time in APU?
Winning Intramural Soccer? It is difficult to choose just one.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Find some way to exercise.
What is your name and major?
My name is Brenden Miller and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Ready to travel.
Plans in the future?
Work as a Software Engineer.
Most exciting time in APU?
Honestly, graduation.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Apply yourself.
What is your name and major?
My name is Richard Navarro and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Redeemed. Restored. Saved.
Plans in the future?
I'm not sure. God himself will provide.
Most exciting time in APU?
Working on group projects with some of my closest friends.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Trust God, have fun, code on your free time, and get experiences.
What is your name and major?
My name is Andrew Akiyama and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Analytical, Logical, Determined
Plans in the future?
Find a job or internship
Most exciting time in APU?
The LAN party fundraisers.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Get ahead on homework/projects, but find time to hang out with friends
What is your name and major?
My name is Joshua Sasaki and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Spaghetti-Master, determined, analytical
Plans in the future?
Work for the Aerospace Corporation
Most exciting time in APU?
Going to LAN Parties
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Do not procrastinate on your homework
What is your name and major?
My name is Jason Kirschenmann and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Determined, caring, driven
Plans in the future?
I don't know yet.
Most exciting time in APU?
Meeting cool people in my classes.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Socialize with people and make new friends.
What is your name and major?
My name is Trevor Roberts and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
detailed, worshipper, non-conformist
Plans in the future?
Find a software development job in LA.
Most exciting time in APU?
Studying abroad in High Sierra. If you like the outdoors or philosophy at all, DO IT.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
If you like computers, enjoy solving challenging problems, understanding how things work, and "can" do math, then Computer Science is right for you.
What is your name and major?
My name is David Bartholomew and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Determined, Funny, Creative.
Plans in the future?
Work somewhere to pay off loans as Software Developer.
Most exciting time in APU?
Probably move in day
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Don't procrastinate, just get your classes over with.
What is your name and major?
My name is Robert Bieti and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Entrepreneur, creative, inspired.
Plans in the future?
Work on creating my own business and travel the world.
Most exciting time in APU?
Being on Pacific Islander Organization Leadership and dancing in Luau.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Get involved and make the most out of your time here.
What is your name and major?
My name is Nathan Frasier and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Committed, dedicated, finances.
Plans in the future?
Work for FAST Enterprises 2-3 years and then hopefully pursue freelance/investing ventures.
Most exciting time in APU?
Being a manager in IMT Device Solutions.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Take advantage of every opportunity because college comes to an end quickly. Have the knowledge that you are going to know more than you ever did at 22 than when you started. Have faith in that.
What is your name and major?
My name is Kyle Nakamura and I am a Computer Science major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Ambitious, Affable, Analytical.
Plans in the future?
Work with IMT for the next two years, finish a Master's program in CS, then pursue a Doctorate in A.I. or find a job in the A.I. field that I am happy at.
Most exciting time in APU?
Making it to Semi-Finals at Zuventurez 2017
Advice for incoming freshmen?
Don't waste time in fun clubs and extracurricular activities; pursue a career path by building valuable skills/experience and a wide network of connections in your field.
What is your name and major?
My name is Daniel Davis and I am a Computer Information Systems major.
Three words to describe yourself?
Persistent; motivated; Creative
Plans in the future?
To serve others and Glorify God in whatever job God places me.
Most exciting time in APU?
Participating in the APU Mens Choral Hawaii tour.
Advice for incoming freshmen?
To never give up.