Meet the Orientation Leaders

Hi everyone! My name is Arissa, I'm from the Turlock area. I decided to attend Stan State because it was local to me and pretty affordable. I try to be pretty involved on campus. Currently I am the Co-Vice President of BSU, also known as the Black student Union. We do social justice work, advocate for black student voices, and encourage engagement within our local community as well. I'm a psychology major but one of my favorite classes that I've taken at Stan so far was a philosophy class "intro to critical thinking." I do consider myself first-gen and my advice as an incoming student is to just ask as many questions as you can, and don't be afraid to try and make connections with faculty and staff as well. There are so many resources at your disposal, sometimes it's just about knowing where to look.

Hello, everyone! My name is Briana and I'm a third-year liberal studies major! I decided to attend Stanislaus State because it's so close to home and the beauty of the campus. I'm from Merced, CA, and I'm also a first-generation student. During the school year, I'm a part of some organizations on campus, including Phi Sigma Sigma, and I serve on the Stanislaus State Panhellenic Council.

During my free time, I like enjoying time at home reading or baking. I also enjoy going on Dutch or food runs with friends! I would say that some of my favorite memories at Stan have to be any memories I make with friends I have met at Stan. If it wasn't for me putting myself out of my comfort zone and getting involved on campus, I wouldn't have met any of them. One big piece of advice I would give to you as a new student is to put yourself out there and step out of your comfort zone; you never know where it will take you!

Hi everyone! My name is Brooklyn Salyers, and I’m currently a student at Stanislaus State. I chose Stan State because of the welcoming community, the beautiful campus, and the strong academic programs that really made me feel like I would be supported here. I’m majoring in Psychology with a minor in Child Development. Ever since I started, I’ve loved being part of this campus, and I’ve had the chance to grow both personally and academically through my classes and experiences here.

Some of my favorite memories at Stan State have been in my Child Development classes. They’ve been the most engaging and inspiring courses for me, and they’ve helped me realize how passionate I am about working with students. That’s why my goal is to become a student psychologist after I complete my bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Outside of school, I love staying active and trying new things. I enjoy playing pickleball, baking, and I’m currently learning how to play golf. One piece of advice I’d give to future students is to explore different classes and clubs early on. You never know what might spark your passion. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Professors and staff here truly want to see you succeed!

My name is Camille Cortez! I am from Riverbank, CA. I decided to attend Stan State to pursue a degree in nursing while being close to home. My favorite memory at Stan State is attending Warrior Day! My advice to new students is to explore all opportunities and to make the most out of your college experience.

In my free time, I work with kids with autism and am an aide to children in need. I love to go to the gym, travel, and relax at home with my dogs. So far, my favorite class that I have taken is Anatomy. I loved dissecting in the lab and learning more about the human body!

Hello everyone! My name is Ema Alfaro and I just recently graduated from Stan State as a Sociology major with a minor in Ethnic Studies. I’m from Hollister, California, and I have lived in Turlock for the last four years. I decided to come to Stan State because of the community and all the opportunities that it had brought to me. It’s a smaller school, but there is always something to do, especially if you are living in the dorms or even commuting from home. My favorite memory coming to Stan State was getting to tour the campus and seeing everyone walk around campus. I started during Covid and seeing people be in the quad at the club booths, the warrior grill, and in the library, making their own memories they are making. My favorite classes at Stan had to have been any sociology classes because they are more opinion based so I loved getting to out my own input while in class.

I was a part of Phi Mu Fraternity, a sorority here on campus. Which took up lots of my free time during school, but now I’m just trying to find new hobbies and fun things to do this summer. I like to go on hikes, be outdoors, and most importantly, hang out with friends. Some advice that I would give to incoming students is GET INVOLVED!! The more clubs you join and the more activities you go to (especially because they are mostly free) you will make so many new memories and make so many new friends. It’s worth it because these college years are crucial. So happy to see everyone during NSO!!

Hello, my name is Emma Perez. I’m from San Bernardino! I attended Stan State because of its affordability, especially for me being a first-gen student — it was easy to navigate! I have gotten to know Stan State more by being involved. I used to be in Code Red, which helps set up events like Warrior Day and Warrior Wednesdays for students on campus. I’m currently in an organization called Phi Lambda Rho and advocate for the younger generation to strive for higher education. We help volunteer for the community and host events!

My favorite memory at Stan State would be when the University hosted an event at 10 Pins. I got to meet new people and friends there! The advice I would give new students is, if you ever need help, always ask! I’ve never met anyone at Stan State that’s not willing to stop what they are doing to help you! I know as a first-gen student myself I was scared to ask for help at first! In my free time, I like to walk around, stand and hang out with friends, even if we’re studying on campus or grabbing a quick bite to eat!

Hello my name is Evan, my fraternity is Kappa Sigma and my club is the criminal justice club. I decided to go to stand because I wanted to go to school somewhere close where I live. My favorite memory has to be my orientation experience.

I chose Stan State because it was closest to home, but over time, I have grown to love it for various reasons. I have to say one of my favorite memories at Stan State was when I joined Code Red Entertainment (CRE). CRE is a program that creates activities for students to be involved and take their mind off things for a while. Joining CRE was something new, but it allowed me to challenge myself. After all, you never know if you’re capable unless you try.

My words of advice: “ YOU CAN NEVER KNOW IF YOU ARE CAPABLE UNLESS YOU TRY. ONCE YOU TRY, YOU’LL REALIZE YOU HAVE ALWAYS BEEN CAPABLE.”

Hi, my name is Gabby and I'm from Modesto. I decided to attend Stanislaus State because it is local, and I liked how it is on the smaller side, so it lets me take full advantage of my college experience. I am a first-generation student and with that I understand the struggles that often come with. Quick advice: Stan State has so many resources available to its students, and it is completely okay to take advantage of them!

During my time at Stan, I have had the opportunity to be involved on campus through student organizations such as Phi Sigma Sigma, and through TRIO- a student support program. In my free time, I love to learn new DIY skills, read books and be out in nature. One piece of advice that has helped me through college is to take advantage of any opportunity. You never know where the opportunities may lead to, and with that note it is also completely okay to ask for help. Your experience at Stan State is all about what you make it!

Hi everyone! My name is Hannah Esquivel, and I’m from Merced, California. I’m a proud first-generation college student majoring in Communication Studies here at Stanislaus State. I chose Stan State because of its supportive community and welcoming campus atmosphere. I currently serve as the Vice President and Treasurer of the Communication Studies Club and have previously served on the University Student Center Board of Directors. Being involved has helped me find my voice and connect with so many amazing people.

In my free time, I love watching horror movies, lifting weights, playing video games, attending music festivals and spending time with my cats. One of the most impactful classes I’ve taken was Gender and Society. It challenged me to think critically about inclusion and equity. My advice to new students is to get involved and ask for help when you need it. You belong here, and your journey is just beginning!

Hello! My name is Isabella Samperio; I am a first-generation student majoring in criminal justice with a concentration in forensic science. I was born and raised in Modesto CA by my amazing parents. In my free time I like to spend time with friends/family, watch tv shows, play some video games, and work out. Some of my hobbies include drawing/painting, reading, riding quads and doing diamond art. 

I decided to attend Stanislaus State due to its beautiful campus. Since my freshman to junior year, I was a part of a volunteer organization known as Code Red Entertainment, along with being a member of the gaming and criminal justice club. During my time here at Stan State my favorite memory has been those long library study nights with my friends filled with joy and laughter.  My advice to new students is to take this time to get involved on campus to make new connections that will later help them for career/education opportunities.

Allow me to introduce myself, my name is Isaiah Sanchez. I am from Ceres and I graduated from Central Valley High School. I decided to attend Stan State because of its sustainability and friendly community on campus. It also made it easier to maintain my education as well as keeping my family close to me. If you spent a weekend with me, you would find that I love making music, reading, binge watching shows and cooking up new recipes.

One of my favorite memories at Stan state is the movie nights, homecoming games, and warrior days we have had in the past. A piece of advice I can give students is to involve themselves with the people around them. Coming from a first gen student, use the resources that the school gives to students, take advantage of every opportunity that will help you grow as a person and better your career.

Hi, my name is Jayden Betbabanta!

I’m a first-generation college student majoring in Business Finance with a minor in Biology. Born and raised in Turlock, I chose Stanislaus State because it’s local, affordable, and already familiar to me. Outside of academics, I enjoy fishing, hunting, sports, and gambling. On campus, I’m involved in the Assyrian Club, WEI Group, Theta Chi Fraternity, and I work at the Fab Lab, which has been a great way to gain hands-on experience and meet new people.

One of my favorite memories at Stan State is participating in Warrior Wednesday and enjoying free food from the ASI booth. For new students, my advice is to get involved; join clubs, leadership programs, and Greek life if it interests you. Build connections and make the most of every opportunity to create an unforgettable college experience it'll only be as good as you wish to make it.

Hey everyone! My name is Jessica, and I’m from Modesto, California. I chose Stan State to stay close to the community I grew up in and to pursue my major in Communication Studies. I’m also proud to be involved with New Student Orientation, one of the best ways to connect with campus life! One of my favorite Stan State memories is meeting my closest friends, it truly made my college experience unforgettable.

I can confidently say that choosing Stan State has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I think you’ll feel the same! In my free time, I love exercising, baking, reading, and spending quality time with friends and family. My advice to new students is to get involved! Joining campus activities is the best way to make new connections and feel at home here.

Can’t wait to see you around! 

Hello! My name is Jordy Salgado, and I’m from Visalia, California. I chose to attend Stanislaus State because of the meaningful connections I made even before officially starting here. From the beginning, I could feel how supportive the campus community was and how many resources were available to help students thrive. As a proud first-generation college student, I’ve taken every opportunity to get involved on campus. I’ve worked at the University Student Center, served on its board, and worked under the Educational Opportunity Program as a peer mentor. I’m also an active member of Nu Alpha Kappa Fraternity, served as fundraising chair for Chicanos Unidos for Academic Excellence, and held the role of scholarship chair for the United Fraternity and Sorority Council. I currently work in two roles on campus, as a front desk student assistant for Student Leadership, Engagement & Belonging, and as a student ambassador for the Advising and Success Center.

One of my favorite memories at Stan State was being part of Homecoming and celebrating a big win with my fraternity brothers. Outside of school, I enjoy staying connected with friends, creating meaningful experiences, and giving back to the community. My biggest advice to new students is to get involved! Whether it’s joining an organization, applying for an on-campus job, or simply attending events. Stan State has so much to offer, but you don’t have to have it all figured out, just start somewhere. The people and experiences you find along the way will help shape your journey. So take that first step, you never know what doors will open until you try!

Hi everyone! My name is Juliette. I am from Los Banos, California. I decided to come to Stan State because of the beautiful campus and how close it is to home. My favorite memory at Stan State is meeting my boyfriend.

I am a first-generation student! On campus, my favorite class I have taken has been human anatomy. A piece of advice I would like to give is to use your resources that are given on campus. In my free time, I love to spend time with my family and boyfriend. I also like to spend time with my fur babies!

My name is Kimberly & I am a 4th year Psychology major. I decided to attend Stan State because I’ve always liked the campus since I toured it when I was a sophomore in high school. I love the community & the opportunities that I’ve gotten attending this school. I am the Student Center Leadership Student Assistant & I am also in Alpha Xi Delta. In my free time, I like to hang out with my friends & watch tv shows. My favorite class so far is probably Intro to Social Psychology.

Hello, my name is Manny Delgadillo, and I'm from Turlock, California, born and raised. The reason I chose to attend Stanislaus State was because the community is really welcoming, and also it was close to home. I am involved in Greek life on campus (Theta Chi) and am on the ASI Board of Directors -- I served as the ASI Director for the College of Business Administration. My favorite part of attending Stanislaus State has to be Warrior Day. Warrior Day is a nice time to not think about any classes and tests, you can focus on just having fun with all of your friends.

Hi! My name is Melanie Ovrahim, I am now a third year Biology major. I am from Turlock, CA and chose to come to Stan State due to the proximity to my friends and family. I am apart of the SC board of directors and an officer in the Assyrian Club on campus. I love to go on walks and travel with my friends. 

Advice I would give to new students would have to be to enjoy life on campus. Make sure to stay before or after your classes to enjoy all the fun activities the campus has. This is a great way to make great connections with other classmates and make new friends. 

Hi, I am Mia, but everyone calls me MJ! I am from Stockton and transferred from Delta College. I decided to come to Stan due to its proximity, affordability, and highly recommended Libs program. I’m so happy I chose Stan, because I probably would have never joined the sorority Phi Sig if I went to a different CSU. I have met the best people through my organization. and honestly any time spent with my sorority sisters have become my favorite Stan State memories. My favorite class I’ve taken is Oral Communication in Children’s Literature. Everyone in that class was so nice and incredibly supportive of each other, which was pleasantly unexpected. As a first-generation student myself, my biggest piece of advice for other first-gen students is to make yourself heard. It is intimidating to do things without any guidance, so become your own advocate and seek out the guidance you need. Everyone is here to hear your concerns and support you!

In my free time, I love going to live sports games with my family. My favorite sports season is baseball season #GoGiants. If not, spending time with my friends is always fun! I’m also a very crafty girl and especially love to scrapbook

My name is Natalie Sanchez, I am from Hughson, California, which is located about 10-13 minutes from Turlock. I decided to attend Stanislaus State because it was close to home and I wouldn’t be far from my loved ones and has such a diverse and beautiful community. My favorite memory as of right now would probably have to be NSO for me. I chose NSO because that is when I met my now best friends and was able to establish such great friendships and meet new people, and being able to connect. Advice I have for new students is that, although you may be feeling a whole ton of emotions, you’re not alone.

Everyone else is feeling the same way; they’re just expressing it differently. Everything will be okay, no matter what the circumstances may be. I am a first-generation student. During my free time, I like to hang out on campus with friends at the student center, go to the gym, or go out and do non-school-related activities such as shopping, traveling, and spending time with my family. My hobbies are working out, watching soccer, shopping, and traveling. My favorite class I have taken is SPAN 3010 or any class taken with Rob Sledge.

My name is Nicolas Gil, but I go by Nico. I live in Modesto, California, and went to school in Ceres, so I have stayed local for my entire life. That was a main reason I chose to go to Stanislaus State, as I would be able to get a degree while staying close to family. I am not involved in any clubs at Stanislaus State; however, I am a part of College Corps. I will be doing my third year of College Corps next semester.

It is hard to pinpoint my favorite memory at Stan State, as I have many fond memories, from hanging out with friends to playing in the recreational soccer league at the school. My advice for new students would be to go to Warrior Wednesdays and talk to people tabling, even if you don't know them, as everyone is very friendly. In my free time, I like to play soccer and spend time with friends. My favorite class I have taken is Criminal Justice Procedures with Professor Pourtaverdi, as he made the class very memorable.

Hi! My name is Priscilla Morales and I’m from Gustine, California but I stay in Turlock! The reason I chose Stan State was due to the welcoming environment they bring to the campus. Currently I’m involved in the sociology club and the photography club. My favorite memory at Stan State is definitely Warrior Day which they have different activities and performers . I’m a first generation student and the advice I would give would be get involved! You meet so many people and it makes the experience even more great. What I do on my free time is go to the gym, photography, and hang out with friends. My favorite class I have taken was Badminton. Definitely has made me love the sport even more.

Hello! My name is Sashenka Cantellano. I am from Turlock. I decided to attend Stanislaus State because it was close to home and had the degree I wanted to major in. Although I haven't been involved with campus activities as much as I would have liked so far, I'm excited for my new role as an Orientation Leader. This role will give me the chance to become more engaged with the campus. My favorite memory at Stan State is NSO -- I got to hang out with both my friends and new classmates. One piece of advice I would give to new students is to never be afraid to ask questions. Whether it's to your professor, advisor or classmate, asking questions is key. If you're confused about something, speak up and ask for clarification. I believe that asking questions has made my transition from high school to college much smoother.

As a first-generation student, I'm proud of everything I've accomplished so far and am excited for all that I will continue to achieve. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my boyfriend, family and friends. Some of my favorite activities are shopping, watching shows and movies, playing tennis, going for walks with my dog and playing with my cat. I also love to cook and bake new recipes, and I enjoy crocheting as a relaxing hobby. My favorite classes so far have been Problems in U.S. History with Professor Nystrom or World of Biology Lab with Professor Fondse. Both professors made learning enjoyable and introduced me to subjects I knew little about.

I am a tattooist and have the experience of more than seven years; it is one of my biggest interests. It is somehow very alluring that after painting what a person sees or recalls on their body, they will have it tattooed on there forever so as to create an avenue of expression they can never be tired of. I also hold a truck driving job at Amazon besides tattooing, so I have a practical career mixed with the orderly cycle of shipping and transportation. Becoming a mother to active and inquisitive 3-year-old son, however, is one of the most fulfilling experiences in my life because he makes me busy and laugh all the time through his activities and questions.

Sci-fi shows and movies are my favorite past time when I am not working or parenting because I am always drawn to programs that have a good futuristically bend or out of this world plot like movie. I am a big Disney enthusiast as well; the magic and nostalgia is always a mood booster of sort. Although I am most certainly a homebody, I like to go out once in a while now to refresh and have something new to encounter. In addition, be it a nice movie night or a rare gathering, I attempt to set the scale in the small moments of pleasure.