Access Magazine Spring 2025 Issue 2

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Issue 2

ccess Magazine SPRING 2025

LETTER FROM THE

EDITORS

Dear Readers, Imagine this: It’s the first week of campus in 2019, the air buzzing with excitement. Then, chaos strikes. Someone is held at gunpoint and forced to withdraw money from ATMs around campus. It was a chilling reminder that campus life is as unpredictable as it is unforgettable.

When I came up with the idea for Campus Life, I was browsing the archives of Access magazines. One issue from the 80s caught my eye, depicting vibrant scenes of college life.

It reminded me that college is so much more than just going to class. The two years I spent living on campus were some of the best of my life, filled with stories I’ll never forget.

Amaya Reynolds Homeless wander the campus, and police cars zoom in and out of the garage. As I watch, I can’t help but wonder, where am I? This issue is all about campus life— diving into the various clubs, sports, classes and the vibrant diversity that makes SJSU unique. But for me, as a commuter, it’s a different experience. I miss out on the feeling of the campus buzz—the energy of walking through crowds between classes, the loud cheers at sporting events, the connection with classmates. Living outside the area means I’ve missed out on that daily pulse of campus life.

Taylor Shepherd

ON THE COVER

SJSU students Azharia Butler, Justin Nguyen, Norah Sheppard, and Jason Parker on Seventh Street Photo: Sofi Cipriano

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With this second issue,we want to inspire every student to embrace the unpredictability and opportunity of college.

Be bold. Be curious. Be one with SJSU. Join a club, play a sport, create friendships, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Before you know it, you’ll be reminiscing about your ‘campus life,’ cherishing every moment—even the wild ones.

What’s Inside...

Make Way for Student Government

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Pulse of Protest:

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8

Planes, Classes and Misconceptions

10 AI Era is Now!

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Standing Higher at the Forkroad of Higher Education

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Students Getting Ready for Grad School

20 SJSU Grads who Followed Passion

From Combat to Campus:

24 Spirit of Sport

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Where Passion, Culture and Purpose Collide at SJSU

Courts of Camaraderie: SRAC’s Pick up Culture

Breaking the Mold: over Paperwork

Battling Challenges on School Ground

Satisfyingly Full, but Still Room for Improvement

Stepping Out of

30 Your Comfort Zone

to Dream 28 Distance and Degrees

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Pulse of Protest Where Passion, Culture and Purpose Collide at SJSU

Michelle Sanchez Staff Writer | @michelless.21

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t San José State University, students have access to over 400 active student organizations, each offering a unique opportunity to advocate, connect and learn. Among them are powerful groups like Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán (M.E.Ch.A.), Students for a Democratic Society (SDS), Students Against Mass Incarceration (SAMI), and League of Filipino Students (FLS).

These programs provide a platform for students to speak out on critical issues, explore cultural identities and fight for social justice. These organizations are not just extracurricular activities; they are creating a community where students challenge the norms, build solidarity and obtain the tools needed to make real change in the world.

These student groups are essential in shaping a dynamic campus experience, which is why Sofia Calderon, a second-year political science student, became the president of M.E.Ch.A. Calderon joined the organization out of frustration with the apathy she saw toward issues such as incarceration and human rights. “When I found an organization like M.E.Ch.A that stands for the advancement of La Raza and liberation of Latinos from all backgrounds, something lit up in me and I thought ‘No, I should probably join this,’” Calderon said. According to Dictionary.com, “La Raza” is a term used to describe the community of Mexican-Americans and people from Mexico. Calderon was inspired to join M.E.Ch.A to support the community of all Latino backgrounds, which landed her the role of co-chair during 2024, the year she joined.

Building a sense of belonging Students who join clubs and organizations often feel a deeper sense of belonging and connection, according to an article in Community College Daily. This sense of community is something Calderon deeply values. “We could have something quite beautiful—a family even—of people who care for each other, the way la gente (the people) tends to care for each other,” Calderon said.

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M.E.Ch.A, SDS and APA held a rally against ICE on campus on Feb. 25, 2025 Photo: Leequan Jackson

In line with this commitment to advocacy, on Feb. 25, M.E.Ch.A., SDS and the National Criminal Justice Honor Society (APA) held a rally against the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement ( ICE). They worked together to voice their concerns for undocumented students and their issues with the administration.

Echoing this message of solidarity, Aiden Roa, an SJSU student and an organizer for Students Against Mass Incarceration, emphasized the power of unity: “Everybody can accomplish things by working together, regardless of what ethnicity or labels you ascribe to,” Roa said.

Similarly, John Duroyan, president of SDS, mentions that opportunity to hear immigrants’ experiences. building more connections and a strong front is important for the organization. “I think we take a lot of active steps and Change on campus active measures to build a bond with these other clubs so we can have a real strong united coalition,” Duroyan said.

Similarly to having students connect with outside organizations, Calderon hopes to create a mirroring experience on Building on this idea of collaboration, Dr. Kevina Brown, campus as well. “Eventually, I would love to mobilize the a community relations specialist and professor, said that community and help guide and facilitate different actions collaboration is key when working toward a common goal. and spaces to create real radical change on campus,” Cal“It’s super important, and I think that there does need to be deron said. a triangulation of efforts and joint forces to support each other,” Dr. Brown said.

Within each organization, there are similar goals and ideas set for the semester. Both M.E.Ch.A. and SDS focus on Student voices immigrant rights, combating misinformation about ICE and developing protocols to support undocumented students.

In line with this emphasis on student-driven action, student-led organizations play a key role in shaping campus In a similar vein, Roa said Students Against Mass Incarcerculture. According to Housing Cloud, a source of information ation is planning to educate people about women in prison on housing and student services, student-led organizations through the play Julius Caesar by Shakespeare, which was focus on “civic engagement and social responsibility” and recently performed by incarcerated women. can have a positive influence on the community and campus.

Another area of focus for the organizations is holding the Sharing the same beliefs, Erlinda Yañez, an administrative administration accountable and ensuring students feel safe analyst in the Chicana and Chicano studies department on campus. “We’re addressing the fact that a lot of things and one of M.E.Ch.A.’s advisors, said it is important that that they’re supposed to provide to students aren’t getting students voice their concerns. “The student voice is really addressed—like how funding is being cut to a lot of our important in making sure that the programs we have here education,” Duroyan said. today continue to exist,” Yañez said.

Additionally, Trizha Loren Aquino, a member of the FLS organizational development committee, spoke about the group’s outreach efforts. “We try to join PAWIS (Pilipino Association of Workers and Immigrants) and show workers the rights they have and invite them to PAW I S events,” Aquino said. PAWIS events can consist of Carehome outreach, Workers Know Your Rights and general meetings. Aquino further stated that this also gives Filipino students the

Standing in solidarity

Through their efforts, these organizations and many others give students a platform for their voices to be heard and to stand in solidarity with others, no matter the cause.

“I want that love to show in a radical way, in the sense that they would love to show up for each other and genuinely create change for the people that need that systemic change, which is all of us,” Calderon said.

SJSU students protesting against ICE on campus

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r o F y a Make W

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Sofi Cipriano Staff Writer | @sofi_cipriano_ Hailey Nguyen Co-Writer

espite its role in shaping campus policies and advocating for student needs, the student government at San José State University struggles to engage the student body. With more than 36,000 students enrolled, why do so few participate in the political organizations that represent them?

Involvement in student government and political groups at SJSU is limited. Despite the more than 36,000 students at the university, there seems to be a disconnection between students and the political groups that represent them on campus. Whether it’s Associated Students—the university’s official student government on campus—or other political clubs, many groups struggle to reach students according to Issues addressed by SJSU’s student government impact all students. According to its mission statement, Associated Students exists “to support and represent the students of San José State University.”

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Photo: Sofi Cipriano

Some students believe disengagement stems from a general lack of awareness about student political organizations on campus. Many students who are not actively involved in campus life may not know about student organizations and miss out on important activities such as elections, meetings, or rallies.

Associated students gathered for a meeting in the Student Union Photo: Sofi Cipriano

Nikki Pandita, a second-year forensic science and Crime Scene Investigator student, said that she does not have much knowledge about student political organizations on campus because of the lack of information. “I just don’t see any information out there, maybe only one or two posts about political organizations on campus,” Pandita said. Although social media accounts like Associated Students exist to promote student politics, they have fewer than 1,000 followers, which is a minuscule number compared to the 36,000-plus enrolled students.

Students who already feel uneducated about politics may also steer away from engaging in student politics. Andre David, a third-year student at SJSU, said his lack of experience in politics is a barrier to joining political organizations on campus. “Because I don’t know a lot about politics, it makes me feel like I shouldn’t speak on anything or join any clubs,” he said.

percent of students live on campus, while the remaining 86.7 percent commute, according to a fall 2023 survey by SJSU Transportation Solutions. That is a huge amount of commuter students who may not be aware or have a disinterest in looking into different clubs or organizations on campus.

Ariana Lacson, the President of A.S. said, “ I think it is due to a lack of knowledge of A.S. Not a lot of people know about us. With SJSU being a predominantly commuter school, a lot of students go to their classes and go home.”

Arlene Abella, a third-year kinesiology student, believes commuting culture at SJSU is an important topic. “My first year commuting to campus was hard for me to get involved; I only had time to be in class and leave,” Abella said. “Now in my second year, I decided to become an R.A. on campus and it has been much easier for me to become aware of different political groups on campus.”

According to honorsociety.org, engaging in politics at the student level benefits students in developing a sense of civic responsibility. Joining a student government group, Nwokolo said, “The way they lead and operate, it seems like a good experience to get to work with people of different backgrounds.” Participation in student government and political organizations gives students the opportunity to learn about democratic processes, critical thinking, negotiation Many students across campus share that sentiment. Yuki and collaboration.

Zagol, a second-year biology student, said she rarely hears anything about student politics. “I don’t know much about As SJSU students navigate their college experience, they student politics on campus because people don’t really talk can fail to recognize the significant contributions the student about it, none of my teachers say anything about it and I government makes on campus. However, acknowledging and don’t see advertisements from clubs,” Zagol said. participating in the enterprise of these organizations, students not only enrich their college experience—they strengthen the Another factor contributing to low engagement is that SJSU San José State community as a whole. has a predominantly commuter student population. Only 13.3 A.S. Vice President and political science student, Chima Nwokolo, said the disconnect is partly due to a lack of communication on the part of the student leaders. “There are many students who simply don’t know what Associated Students is, and I think it’s our own fault for not communicating with the student body enough.”

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Planes, Classes and SJC

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ALEJANDRA GALLO

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SAN JOSE

ALEJANDRA GALLO

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Misconceptions Photo: Adobe Stock

Alejandra Gallo Content Editor | @ale.jandragallo

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credit transfer, culture shock, homesickness and safety concerns,” Quero said. “A lot of students are concerned about the cost of studying abroad—tuition, housing, daily expenses—and the language barrier.”

Jeremy Quero, a student at SJSU who majors in engineering technology manufacturing systems, went on a study abroad experience in the spring semester of 2023 at the Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences. Quero had an exceptional study abroad experience but is aware that several factors make students hesitant to participate. “The main concerns students worry about are the financial concerns, academic

Erin Kelly-Weber, senior program specialist at the Study Abroad and Away office at SJSU, believes that students often have misconceptions when it comes to studying abroad, particularly regarding cost. “In many cases, students are paying the same tuition as they would at SJSU, while paying housing and living costs that are based on the destination,” Kelly-Weber said. “Students who study abroad for a semester or year are often saving money because the cost of living in certain destinations is much lower than in San Jose or the Bay Area.”

n the 2022-23 academic year, more than 280,000 students studied abroad for academic credit, according to Open Doors Data. At San José State University, both students and administrators are working to dispel common misconceptions about study abroad and demonstrate that these enriching experiences are attainable to students in nearly every major.

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International students at the GSW Global Spartan Welcome Orientation program Photo: Study Abroad Office

Faculty-Led Programs and Summer School Abroad at SJSU require three payments: tuition and fees, an administrative fee and program fees that cover housing, insurance, meals, activities and more, according to an SJSU webpage. Parinaz Zartoshty, senior director at the Study Abroad and Away office, explains that SJSU offers a variety of program options to accommodate students’ needs. “You may want to consider studying at one of our partner universities through Summer School Abroad, SJSU Exchange, California State University International Programs (CSU IP), International Student Exchange Program (ISEP), or domestic exchange through the National Student Exchange (NSE),” Zartoshty said. “Or perhaps, you would like to look into one of our Faculty-Led Programs (FLPs) or Alternative Break Programs (ABP).”

“For some reason, students tend to believe that studying abroad is only for language majors or rich students,” Quero said. “In reality, programs exist for almost all majors, andmany affordable options exist through financial aid and scholarships.”

Students often worry that studying abroad will delay their graduation, require them to learn another language or force them to take additional classes. However, according to Kelly-Weber, these concerns can be addressed.“On all study abroad and away programs where students are taking classes, they are earning SJSU credit and can fulfill major, minor, general education or elective requirements,” Kelly-Weber said. “Some students take all electives while abroad and still graduate on time.”

Many students believe that learning another language is required for studying abroad, but Kelly-Weber explained that is not always the case. “For the majority of our programs, students can actually take classes in English, even if English

is not the native or official language,” she said. “There are some programs where a language proficiency is required, but this is not the majority.”

Diana Vazquez, an anthropology student at SJSU who studied abroad at the University of Tübingen in Germany in 2019, believes that learning a new language is not a requirement for studying abroad. “While it may be useful and courteous to know a bit of the local language, much of the world now communicates in English,” Vazquez said. “Many tourist locations have begun to print other information in both the local language and in English.”

Another common misconception is that study abroad is solely a social adventure. “I remind students that any classes they take abroad will transfer back to SJSU and impact their GPAs,” Vazquez said. “I encourage students to explore and travel as much as possible when they’re studying abroad, but I also urge them to take their classes seriously as well.”

The idea that a global experience must occur overseas is being reexamined. “In addition to programs in more than 70 countries, students can also study at another university in the U.S. through the National Student Exchange Program,” Kelly-Weber said. “These are low-cost domestic options for Spartans to study for a semester or year at 170 culturally diverse campuses across the continental United States, Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.”

Whether it is an international or domestic program, students stand to gain valuable benefits from study abroad programs, both in their professional and academic careers, as well as in their personal lives. By demystifying common misconceptions, SJSU hopes to inspire more students to broaden their horizons and embrace a global experience.

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AI ERA IS NOW ! ’ State’s AI initiatives incorporate the new technology San Jose into learning and teaching to prepare students for the future Michelle Sanchez Staff Writer | @michelless.21

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an José State University has embraced AI initiatives, with faculty integrating AI into their work and students incorporating it into their learning environment.

According to National University, 33% of educators believe that teaching AI is crucial.

Intelligence (AI). Located in the Silicon Valley, the center of technology, SJSU has decided to take more initiative in learning AI and machine learning. According to the official university website, this initiative will also help students with “future technology.”

SJSU has multiple initiatives and priorities that the campus focuses on, one of these being the focus on Artificial

“As the world accelerates adaptation to the AI revolution, SJSU will advance its leadership in the development, application, and assessment of these (artificial intelligence, machine learning and more), and preparation of students for future technologies,” according to an SJSU web page.

Photo: Michelle Sanchez

Many students and professors have high hopes for SJSU to incorporate the focus on AI. Divik Shrivastava, a master’s student in software engineering at SJSU, believes there is significant research to be done in AI and appreciates the university’s hands-on approach. “I really like that SJSU is focusing on research aspects of them and I appreciate the leadership doing that,” Shrivastava said. He is also involved in clubs such as Innovations in Design Engineering and Analyses (IDEA) Indian Student Organization (ISO).

“More than half (52 percent) of students paid over $200 for course materials during the spring 2023 term, with 31 percent paying more than $300 for a single term,” according to an article by Inside Higher Ed. Gurmeet Naroola, an adjunct professor of global business dimensions, founded Copal.ai, a startup focused on AI in education. He was inspired to create the company after realizing how difficult and expensive traditional book publishing could be. “We have a product which uses AI to create courses and create video books, video courses and video books,” Professor Naroola said.

The products can also be set to have notes and conversation with a chatbot within the textbook.

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With this opportunity Professor Naroola believes students may be able to finish classes at their own speed and possibly finish earlier than the average four years to get a Bachelor’s degree.

Some departments at SJSU have also been incorporating AI into the classroom learning environment. Assistant Professor Jorjeta Jetcheva who teaches in the computer engineering department said, “We focus on building and evaluating models kind of more from scratch.”

The U.S. National Science Foundation mentions that AI can enhance students’ critical thinking skills and problem-solving skills. However, Jetcheva believes it’s important to use critical thinking skills when using AI. “We also have to be critical of the outputs of these generative AI models, because they do provide wrong responses that are made-up information,” Jetcheva said.

Shrivastava also mentions encountering AI biases in the models he has worked on. “The bias actually creates results that are not usable and eventually affect the final result,” Shrivastava said.

Even though AI can generate inaccurate information, Professor Jetcheva believes students gain the opportunity to learn about AI ethics and biases.

“We also have to be critical of the outputs of these generative AI models, because they do provide wrong responses that are made-up information.”

Jorjeta Jetcheva Assistant Professor

A robot at the SJSU iSchool office in Clark Hall room 417 Photo: Michelle Sanchez

“Many of these models have been found to contain harmful language about underrepresented groups,” Jetcheva said.

Students have also formed clubs to explore AI’s implications.

Julia Husainzada, a second year Data science student and president of Responsible Computing club, said they are staying informed on AI. “We’re staying updated on news, new technologies, things that are emerging and also considering how things could be affecting our privacy,” Husainzada said.

The Responsible Computing club is working to combine the use of AI with their analytics team, hoping to make the process more efficient and exciting.

Shrivastava, who has had an interest in AI since coming to SJSU and created his own project mock-up review, is planning to have it as a startup to help students. “ I’m using an AI agent to provide the interview simulation for students to practice interviews at their own convenience and get feedback,” Shrivastava states.

In addition to his project mock-up review, Shrivastava has learned through other coursework how to navigate AI in data mining and fundamental concepts. As AI continues to evolve in education, SJSU students are able to gain skills and knowledge that can keep them successful after graduation.

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SJSU students Angela Nguyen (right) & Michelle Sanchez dressed in different career outfits Photo: Phuong Nguyen

CAREER Standing at the Forkroad of Higher Education Angela Nguyen Content Editor | @angela.newin For some students, pursuing a college degree is a privilege that leaves little room for error — both time and money are too valuable to risk changing majors. For others, the journey to finding the right field of study can take years, which means switching majors is simply a part of that process.

San José State University alumnus Kyan Ngo knows this experience well. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in sociology after enduring a grueling six years of college.

However, his initial declared major was not in sociology. “I initially picked a business degree because it was one of the most flexible degrees that can get me into a myriad of fields,” Ngo said.

Like many students, Ngo felt pressured to declare a major immediately after high school, afraid he would ultimately

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lose time and money down the road. He chose business, hoping that something within that field would eventually spark his interest.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, non-STEM majors–such as business—have a high statistic of transferring out of their fields compared to other majors, such as literature majors.

Ngo became a part of this statistic. “Since I was unsure of my major, I went to community college first before transferring to San José State University, which gave me more time to reconsider what I really wanted to do,” Ngo said.

During his time at West Valley College, Ngo discovered a passion for sociology and switched majors, drawn to the

field’s emphasis on understanding and working with people.

Now, as a graduate with a full-time job, he reflects on the journey that led him to his degree. “A degree is meant to give you life skills regardless of what your major is,” Ngo said.

“As long as you are confident in how you apply yourself, that is the best advice I can give.”

He believes he could have benefited from more guidance early on. “A bit more understanding of the real world from peers, family and advisors would have helped.”

At SJSU, academic advisors serve as a useful resource for students navigating their college experience, especially when they are uncertain about their major.

Joel Morales, director of the College of Social Sciences student Success Centerand advisor at SJSU, works directly with students to help them navigate their academic journey, including when they feel uncertain about their major. “We serve as a resource center for students and guide them down the right path to determine what they really want out of their education,” Morales said.

He urges students to take advantage of the Advising Hub which helps to bridge students with career counseling and offers mentorship opportunities, internships and job resources. Appointments can be made by accessing their homepage or directly calling their office.

“I make it a point to listen to the student voice and see where they’re at as an individual to gauge what they need and what resources we can provide them with,” Morales said. “We want every student to succeed which is why we want them to be their own advocate for success.”

For students like Shanne Le, a fifth-year student at SJSU, talking to an advisor was one of the best decisions she made for her education. Initially on the nursing track, she later switched to information systems and technology. “I knew that I would have to invest a lot of time and money into nursing, but at one point, it felt like too much,” Le said.

Struggling to keep up with nursing prerequisites, Le said she lost passion for the field and realized she was forcing herself onto a path she no longer enjoyed.“It was hard for me to make the decision because I realized that I can’t undo the time I spent pursuing nursing,” Le said. “But I also knew that I had other passions that I could invest in.”

Dr. Lisa Gray, a family nurse practitioner, said the nursing profession can be “rigorous but rewarding.” “There’s a lot

“A degree is meant to give you life skill regardless of what your major is, as long as you are confident in how you apply yourself, that is the best advice I can give” Kyan Ngo SJSU Alumnus

of critical thinking that needs to be applied to classes that are required for nursing undergraduates on top of labs and classes like physiology or biostatistics which can be quite challenging,” Dr. Gray said.

Gray noted that students who overload themselves with coursework may struggle with burnout, leading some to reconsider their career path. However, she encourages students not to fear change if they realize a major no longer aligns with their interests.

“Make sure that your chosen career path is what you really like,” Dr. Gray said. “Don’t pursue a career because you feel like you have to and it’s too late to change.”

This advice resonates with both Ngo and Le, who agree that college is a time of self-discovery and that changing majors can be an important step toward finding a fulfilling career.

For them, college wasn’t just about picking the right major—it was about embracing change and learning from challenges. Though the path isn’t always linear, every twist and turn is part of a larger journey toward finding one’s true purpose.

For students like Le and Ngo, college wasn’t just about picking the right major — it was about embracing change and learning from challenges. Though the path isn’t always linear, every twist and turn is part of a larger journey toward finding one’s true purpose.

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: e i r e d a r a m a Courts of C lture SRAC’s Pick-up Cu

Diego Macaraeg Content Writer | @diego.myeggo

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very day, hundreds of students pass by San José State University’s Spartan Recreation and Aquatic Center (SRAC). Inside, the sounds of squeaking sneakers, soaring volleyballs and bouncing basketballs fill the air as pick-up games transform the facility into a hub where students can escape academic pressures, socialize and forge connections.

and colleagues found that university freshmen experienced declines in well-being, social relationships and academic performance after the pandemic, highlighting its impact on student social life.

Although weekend pickleball sessions have been cut, Cavaliere continues to attend weekly games that offer a welcome break from the demands of his busy academic and work A study titled “Benefits of Collegiate Recreational Sports schedule. He has made meaningful memories with friends Participation: Results From the 2013 NIRSA/NASPA and peers through spirited competition. On the court, he Consortium Study” surveyed more than 33,500 students often initiates conversations with his peers to break the ice from 38 U.S. colleges and universities. It found that 91% of and spread his infectious positivity, helping create the ideal participants reported enhanced well-being, 86% experienced environment he envisions. improved stress management and 83% said their self-confidence increased. These findings mirror the experiences of “If you come to the SRAC enough, you see the same groups students at the SRAC. of people and you start to be friends with them, even if it’s not anything deep,” Cavaliere said. “It would be cool to see Finding Friendship on the Court a culture where everybody is so friendly that a new person walks on the court and they immediately flock to them.”

Christian Cavaliere, a kinesiology major and transfer student juggling full-time work and academics, sees the SRAC as Spontaneous Games and a Lasting Community a valuable social outlet. As he pursues a career in physical therapy, the center has rekindled his joy for pickleball and The appeal of informal play isn’t limited to one sport. competition.

First-year aviation major William Hu visits the volleyball courts whenever he can.“I enjoy dropping in and playing “I think sometimes it’s a little bit difficult to make friends volleyball with other people and friends,” Hu said. “It’s a here at SJSU,” Cavaliere said. “I think coming out of the very fun place and I encourage people to play.”

COVID-19 era, many people don’t talk to each other as much as they used to and aren’t as friendly.”

Though he describes himself as “not very social,” the pickup games have helped him step out of his shell. He said that This sentiment reflects broader trends observed among col- playing volleyball at the SRAC is one of the best opportulege students following the COVID-19 pandemic. The loss nities to hang out with friends and unwind during the week. of face-to-face interactions with peers and faculty during He even laughs at the recurring fire door alarm triggered by remote learning periods heightened these feelings, making a stray volleyball—a quirk he hopes to get fixed someday. it more challenging for students to form new friendships and maintain existing ones. A 2022 study by Chiara Buizza Ryan Fetzer, director of Spartan Recreation, said informal

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recreation opportunities are a vital part of student life. “Informal recreation opportunities such as open play or pick-up games are very popular among students because they can stop in and participate on their own time,” Fetzer said.

“There’s no registration or sign-ups. It’s also a great way to meet other students and make new friends.”

a sanctuary where spontaneous interactions, unwritten rules and free equipment checkouts break down barriers and spark unexpected friendships. “I’ve made most of my friends on campus by coming here to the gym,” Agustin said.

Fetzer said that the SRAC is more than just a fitness center.

“We strive to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong,” Fetzer said.

Agustin’s experience demonstrates how the SRAC offers more than fitness and exercising—it’s a place where students find belonging and build relationships. This connection and enthusiasm seen in students is something faculty members have also observed in their time on campus.

A Home Away from Home

Beyond the Game

This commitment to fostering community is reflected in the experience of first-year pre-nursing major Georgie Agustin, who has made the SRAC her second home. She said the center has helped her settle into college life, and she visits at least four times a week to stay active. “I love the environment here,” Agustin said. “Everybody is super friendly.”

Martha Behler, a professional soccer coach and kinesiology instructor who has worked at SJSU for more than a decade, encourages students to stay active in any way possible and has seen firsthand how sports can boost confidence and foster growth. “Whether they do sports or not, the SRAC is giving students the opportunity to meet other people and do things with,” Behler said.

Agustin believes that the SRAC can also serve as a place to study, relax and the variety of activities available has cured her boredom. Agustin plays volleyball, basketball and pickleball—even though she doesn’t consider herself an expert. “I’m not a great pickleball player but I’ve met so many people that coach me while I play,” Agustin said.

For Agustin, the SRAC isn’t just a place to work out; it’s

Behler believes the communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills developed on the courts translate into academic and professional success. She said that allowing students the freedom to express themselves through sports has helped them remain in school and thrive. Enthusiastic students often enter her class chatting about their experiences at the SRAC. “They’re still talking about the goal they scored like it was the World Cup winner,” Behler said.

This enthusiasm for sports is something Fetzer encourages all students, regardless of their athletic background, to explore the wide range of activities at the SRAC. “Try a new workout, play an intramural sport, test your skills on the climbing wall or sign up for an outdoor adventure trip,” Fetzer said. “Spartan Recreation and the SRAC have a lot to offer, and we want students to have the best experience possible—one that helps them grow, make lifelong friends and create lasting memories.”

Beyond just physical fitness, in a campus where college life can sometimes feel overwhelming, the SRAC’s pick-up sports culture underscores the power of physical activity to build community. Every game is a chance to connect, compete and belong.

Kinesiology major Christian Cavaliere playing pickleball Photo: Diego Macaraeg

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Students Getting Ready for Grad School Alejandra Gallo Content Editor | @ale.jandragallo

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growing number of undergraduate students at San In the Bay Area, the median salary for those with a bachelor’s José State University are preparing for the next phase degree is $77,363 compared with $90,324 for those with a of their academic journey. Rather than choosing the master’s degree, according to another Coursera webpage. lucrative option of taking up a job, a growing number are There’s a substantial financial benefit to that additional choosing to pursue advanced degrees—from medical or law education, according to D’Alarcao. school to master’s programs—to specialize their skills and Shakira Alvarez, a 2024 graduate from California State enhance their career prospects.

University East Bay, who studied public health, is aiming According to an SJSU Facts and Accomplishments webpage, to narrow down her specific career and enrolling in a sterile around 40 percent of students at SJSU enroll in graduate technician program. “Many students go to grad school after undergrad to specialize their skills for a particular career school within 10 years of graduation. they’re interested in,” she said. “Students who continue Marc D’Alarcao, dean of the College of Graduate Studies, their education in grad school have the ability to explore believes that students are driven by three factors when their interests better.” choosing to go to graduate school. “One of them is that some jobs actually require a doctorate degree for entry,” he said. Graduate education provides students a more advanced edu“The second reason is that almost all jobs that you can get cation in their field of study, according to a Boston College professor, John E. Ebel. “Undergraduate education gives pay more to people who have a master’s degree.”

SJSU students Katie Kan and Yena Cheong Photo: Khoi Tran

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students a broad, general education,” Ebel said. “Graduate education provides students with more advanced learning in a specialized discipline or subdiscipline.”

“The third reason is that people with advanced degrees, which means beyond a bachelor’s degree, often have more workplace autonomy,” D’Alarcao said. “So, they have more ability to control the kind of projects they work on.”

Philip Koh, a 2022 graduate of the University of California, Berkeley who plans to attend law school in fall 2025, said several factors impacted his decision to further his academics and pursue graduate school. “The job opportunities for a college graduate with a degree in social science (political science) were certainly lacking in terms of the number of opportunities and compensation,” Koh said. “Living in the Bay Area or any other metropolitan cities with the compensation of an entry-level job is nearly impossible.”

“In the Bay Area, the median salary for those with a bachelor’s degree is $77,363 compared with $90,324 for those with a master’s degree...”

Coursera Finding and securing an entry-level position in the Bay Area can be difficult because of high competition and a strong talent pool, according to a Coursera web page. An Inside Higher Ed report also projects that by 2031, most jobs will require graduate education, surpassing the need for an undergraduate degree.

Photo: Analyn Do

“Cost of living plays a big role in encouraging more people to pursue graduate-level education,” Koh said. “The volatility of the economy incentivizes many people to stay in school for a few years, hoping for stability in the economy.”

Graduate school is often a financial burden; however, many students choose to take on debt or pay higher tuition in hopes of reaping the long-term financial benefits of a graduate degree, according to D’Alarcao.

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SJSU student Katie Kan Photo: Khoi Tran

The average total cost of a two-year master’s degree program is around $73,520, according to a National Center for Education Statistics report. The average cost of a Ph.D. is $198,000 to $396,000 for a four to eight-year program before grants and assistantships, according to the same report.

D’Alarcao encourages students to consider graduate school, especially amid an uncertain job market. “It is often the case that during financial downturns like mini recessions, the fraction of people who go to grad school actually increases,” D’Alarcao said. “It’s a good opportunity for people to retool and upskill their ability to work in the workforce.”

Beyond the academic and financial considerations, students also see graduate school as a chance to build networks and forge connections with future colleagues. “Despite attending an undergraduate school with a large student body, I did not make the best use of my four years in terms of making friends and connections,” Koh said. “Now that I learned how important that is, I want to use graduate school to do so.”

As more SJSU graduates consider advanced degrees, the trend reflects a broader pursuit of specialized education and enhanced professional development in an increasingly competitive job market. Ultimately, students must weigh factors such as tuition, cost of living and career goals when deciding whether to pursue graduate school.

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clubs Photo from Adobe Stock

Spring 2025 | ACCESS MAGAZINE | 19

Breaking the Mold SJSU Grads Who Followed Passion Over Paperwork Shuran Luo Staff Writer

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tarting a business is hard and failing is easy, however, success doesn’t touch your feet unless you try. Here are the success stories of San José State University alumni who became entrepreneurs and proved that their dreams can become reality with hard work.

Yuanrong Liang, a 2021 SJSU alumnus from the department of chemistry, is now the owner of a used car store. Liang’s parents encourages him to find a stable job and through majoring in chemistry. “My mom is a chemistry teacher and my dad is works for an HR company,” Liang said. “They wanted me to have a stable job in the future and being a teacher (chemistry teacher) is the way to go.”

On one hand, Liang doesn’t share his parent’s sentiment.Liang has always loved the used car culture and he specializes in modifying off-road vehicles and driving them in the wild.

“I believe in the culture of used cars,” Liang said. “Even though there is a certain amount of competitive pressure, a large demand exists objectively which is why I want to have my own specialty.”

On the other hand, Liang understands his parents sentiment about the benefits of a college education , despite it not being his major income source. He applied his formal chemistry education to fostering human interactions, highlighting how

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it helped him to build and maintain relationships with his clients.

“Learning chemistry involves understanding the composition of matter, and changes. It’s a lot like relationships,” Liang said. “A tacit understanding between two people is often referred to as having chemistry when their relationship can be interpreted as a whole. When two people don’t have a good relationship, they turn back into separate individuals.

It’s kind of like two substances having a reversible reaction after being synthesized.”

To keep relationships, Liang says it requires the expenditure of energy and the investment of passion. Similar to a chemical reaction , both niches require a constant supply of energy in the middle for the reaction to keep going.

Cars at SJSU alumnus Yuanrong Liang’s used car dealership Photo: Shuran Luo

In a similar manner, Liang set up a database on the web to keep customers informed about the cars’ inventory. “Our service is locally based, but we mail all over the United States,” Liang said.

contacted a manufacturer located in China to customize the kennel for small dogs. It was designed to fit the characteristics of a Milky,” Wong said. “The exterior is wrapped in soft fleece and I made the interior of the kennel absorbent.”

Aaron Freitas, an advertising instructor from SJSU, believes that choosing a career involves comprehensive assessment of the most suitable direction for one’s development.

After they developed the kennel, Wong bought many boxes and began selling her products on Shopify and Amazon.

Freitas shared his deep love for Fox Racing, a bike brand that specializes in off-road outdoor gear. “I’ve done graphic design for many companies, but I always come back to Fox to see what I can bring to the brand. The opportunity to work has led me to a deep collaboration,” Freitas said. “In the past, I studied advertising and the theory of marketing, now I’m a strategic partner of the fox brand, as well as the marketing director.”

Linda Wong, a 2021 SJSU alumna, is also enriching her resume. After studying business administration at SJSU, she began working as an accountant for GAP, a clothing brand headquartered across the street from the Ferry Building in San Francisco. However, unable to tolerate the long commute to downtown and the stress of the business, she decided to start her own brand.

One of Wong’s biggest inspirations came from her dog, Milky. Milky, who Wong had since high school, quickly became more than just a pet. “I became very attached to Milky from the day I picked her up and she became a family member,” Wong said. “Now there is Milky, a brand that mainly sells kennels.”

Wong expressed her excitement about sharing a piece of her with others. “I wanted to show my love for Milky, so I

With great effort and time being spent on creating her products, she taught useful skills. “I taught myself graphic design and photography. My friends helped me a lot too. We did a pop-up of Milky products in a cafe in front of the Berkeley campus and we sold products including kennels, dog bowls, leashes and Milky Polaroid stickers.” Wong calls it a “blessing” to work in something she loves so much.

SJSU faculty members also strongly encourage students to fuse their love and academics together. John Delacruz, Director of the School of Journalism and Mass Communications from SJSU, addressed the connection between the discipline and future careers.

He believes that being passionate and academic-oriented can lead to finding a career you love. “Of course I want students to apply what they’ve learned in school to a work scenario. That’s why we teach with a special emphasis on professionalism and originality. What you have to say is very important. It’s hard to call it a good story without the idea behind the product. That’s why I also put special emphasis on the ability to tell a story, and the coherence of the story.”

Entrepreneurship may be driven by love, or by life’s circumstances. Maximizing a life with passion is something a graduate aspires.

Spring 2025 | ACCESS MAGAZINE | 21

FROM COMBAT TO CAMPUS BATTLING CHALLENGES ON SCHOOL GROUNDS Sofi Cipriano Staff Writer | @sofi_cipriano_ and knowledge, according to GoArmy.com. These intense experiences can create a disconnect between veterans and their peers who haven’t had similar challenges.

SJSU students Gavin Ganid, Nathan Young and Noah Cortezano at the Veterans Resource Center Photo: Sofi Cipriano

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he journey to college is different for many students.

Some start right out of high school, others take a gap year and some choose the military, embracing the discipline and camaraderie of a soldier’s life. At San José State University, a relatively small group of veteran students on campus bring a fresh perspective, challenging traditional norms and offering a college experience that is unlike any other.

Roughly 3 to 4 percent of college students in the United States are veterans, according to the Institute for Veterans and Military Families. Few students have faced the challenges of military life, such as time away from family and friends and the rigorous training that tests resilience, confidence

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As a result, many veteran students on campus have a different experience and -perspective on school and life compared to their peers who have not experienced military life. Nick Molina, a kinesiology student at SJSU, spent six years in the U.S. Army as an infantryman. The transition from active duty life to civilian life was tricky for him because he had to adapt to a world outside of the military. “The transition from military to school life was the biggest challenge,” he said.

Molina believes his experiences in life put him at odds with other students on campus. “Having a bit more life experience, it’s a little bit harder to relate to some of my peers,” Molina said. Having spent his time out of high school and his early twenties in the military instead of going straight into college makes Molina a bit older than the rest of his peers who started school earlier.

Gavin Ganid, an Army Reserve sergeant, said joining the military changed him. “I knew that life after high school would be completely different, and I wanted to set myself apart from my peers,” Ganid said. His time spent in training changed him by bringing more direction and order into his life. The skills he learned helped him become more organized and disciplined. “It was completely different because when I was in high school, I had some discipline—in terms of doing my homework–but once I went into the classroom, I realized how much more discipline and structure I have,” Ganid said.

The United States government helps veterans cover the costs of college because of their service, according to CalVet, for California Community Colleges and California State Universities. SJSU aims to provide resources, such as assisting eligible veterans to access educational benefits, certifications and campus resources for student veterans at the Veterans Resource Center.

Noah Cortezano, an administrative assistant at the Veterans Resource Office, believes their office provides resources to help guide student veterans down the right path. “We’ve had a lot of veterans come in and they seem very confused on what’s going on, what the process is to apply to San José State as a veteran and they don’t know about the resources we have that we can provide to help them,” Cortezano said.

College benefits provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs are processed through the Veterans Resource Center on campus, which works to ensure the benefits are adequately used, according to SJSU’s Veterans Resource Center webpage.

their academic life but also fosters a community for veterans on campus. Raymand Buyco, faculty fellow for the VRC, said the center provides a safe space for veterans. “We create comfort right here in this facility,” he said.

On SJSU’s campus, few students have the life experience that many veterans possess, but their unique experiences push them forward in their academic and student life. The sacrifice and dedication it takes for many veterans to get them where they are now helps them overcome the challenges they may face academically. The discipline, resilience and courage gained through military service makes them well-prepared for success.

Photo: Sofi Cipriano

With few veterans on campus, Molina said finding one another is special. “We have to adapt to society; nobody really understands what we had to go through,” Molina said.

“Everyone’s journey was different, the trauma is different as well. When we find one another in a class and find out they were in the military, there’s a connection.”

The Veterans Resources Center (VRC) not only helps administer the resources needed for student veterans to succeed in

“Everyone’s journey was different, the trauma is different as well.

When we find one another in a class and find out they were in the military, there’s a connection.”

Nick Molina Kinesiology | Senior Spring 2025 | ACCESS MAGAZINE | 23

f o t i r i Sp s t r o Sp

Kennedy Mayo Social Media Manager | @kennedymayo_

SJSU Spartan Baseball Team Photo: Mike Will

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ports are more than competition and skill—they are based on personality, traditions and quirks that make each athlete’s journey unique.

From pregame rituals to lucky charms, athletes in different sports have their own ways of locking in and performing their best. These unique habits are not just superstitions; they serve as psychological anchors, helping athletes focus and perform under pressure.

Whether it’s a specific hair tie, a deep-rooted tradition or the way their shoes are put on, these rituals are a key part of sports culture.

Behind these behaviors of athletes lies a fascinating intersection of psychology and performance science. Dr. Jordan Silberman, a sports psychologist, explained the role of rituals in an article from Wave Wear. “Rituals help athletes mentally prepare for competition by reducing anxiety and increasing focus,” Silberman said.

This reassurance is crucial as it helps athletes transition smoothly from practice to competition, building confidence and reducing performance anxiety. Many coaches and sports scientists observe that rituals serve as a bridge, helping athletes step into the game with a focused, game-ready mindset.

From bold hairstyles to rhythmic cheers, San José State University softball players add their glitz, glamor and unique personalities to the game. They create various chants and cheers for each player, while wearing unique hairstyles and much more.

One player who embraces this lively atmosphere isLacie Ham, a right-handed pitcher for SJSU’s softball team and psychology student. She discusses her love for enhancing joy and camaraderie within her sport.“We love to wear unique hairstyles, ribbons in our hair and glitter in our faces, which brings the joy of girlhood to our sport,” Ham said. “We also do organized cheers.” Ham expressed that this ritual gives her the opportunity to radiate the joy that is a key part of the softball team.

Softball cheers and chants are a big part of the game’s culture.

The players’ chants hype up their teammates while creating an energetic atmosphere. Another purpose of the chants is to distract the opponent. Synchronized cheers during a pitcher’s delivery can throw off the opposing team.

Ham also highlights her favorite part of the cheers and why it’s so important. “The chants keep us locked into the game while allowing us to have fun by cheering on our teammates,” Ham said.

“I’m the biggest fan of the cheers, getting creative with them and getting everyone involved.”

Chants and cheers aren’t just superstitions; they are often intertwined with the team’s spiritual beliefs, serving as a way to manifest the intention to perform at their highest level.

SJSU Swim Team Photo: Mike Will

Lauren Sheppard, a communications student and member of SJSU’s cheerleading team, credits her spirituality with keeping her grounded in high-stakes competitions.“Something I always bring to games, practices or competitions are meditation techniques that are rooted in my religious background in Buddhism,” Sheppard said. “I also wear my jade Buddha to protect me from injuries in a risky sport like cheerleading.”

Jade has long been revered for its protective and healing properties in Chinese culture. According to Gem-a, jade is believed to ward off evil, promote health and bring good fortune. The Buddha pose symbolizes both safeguarding and the dispelling of fear.

Building on this, according to The Buddha Garden, the protection Buddha poses symbolizes protection and the dispelling of fear.

Therefore combining these, a jade bracelet featuring a Buddha image embodies both protective qualities attributed to the jade and the spiritual symbolism associated with Buddha.

In a similar way, Keely Brown, a mechanical engineering student and defender for the SJSU women’s soccer team, shares her signature look to get into the game-day mindset. “Pink is my favorite color, and I wear my pink headband and a ponytail before games,” Brown said. “It’s the same every game, and it just gets me in the right mindset to play soccer the best I can.”

Likewise, softball, cheerleading and soccer are more than physical sports. They are full of pre-game rituals, high energy and a sense of personal identity, making them unique to each athlete.

Ultimately, unique superstitions, like wearing a lucky charm or following a specific routine, may separate the good players from the great ones, underscoring the significance of these rituals in sports culture.

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SATISFYINGLY FULL,

BUT STILL ROOM FOR

IMPROVEMENT Angela Nguyen Content Editor | @angela.newin

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fter a grueling day of classes, you find yourself searching for a warm and filling meal somewhere close by. Luckily, you end up standing in front of the school’s Dining Commons–the sanctuary that serves to fill your hunger and many other students’ as well.

At San José State University, the Dining Commons food options rotate to offer a variety of carbs, protein and vegetables. However, some students have concerns about the quality and price of what’s being served.

For Miguel Hernandez, an SJSU alumnus, the Dining Commons meals were his main source of food–even if it meant the meals lacked flavor. “The first time I ate at the Dining Commons was nine years ago when I visited my sister who was attending San José State University,” Hernandez said.

“I was 14 and even then, the food stations seemed to lack variety.”

At the start of each semester, he purchased a Starter Plan card that provided him with 90 meals plus extra funds for other campus fare.

Without a meal plan, a meal ticket costs between $10 and $16 according to SJSU’s Dining Commons page. A price that can seem steep when the food quality falls short of expectations. For students like Hernandez, this price point can seem expensive when the food quality is lower than expected.

For the price Hernandez agreed to pay for a meal plan on top of tuition and housing fees, he believes it should have tasted closer to home-cooked meals.

“The Dining Commons at SJSU gets a bad rep from students, but at the end of the day, it kept me from going hungry and was reliable for people looking for either a quick snack or even a full-on dinner,” Hernandez said.

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He said that students who enjoy trying different cuisines might appreciate stations like the burrito bar, which offers a variety of proteins and topping options—even if not every station delivers the same flavor.

However, Jacqueline Ernst-Smith, an SJSU dietitian, defends Dining Commons for serving nutritious meals, particularly for students on tight budgets.

“Costs are a big consideration for students–not just for meals, but also for other essentials like hygiene, tuition and housing,” Ernst-Smith said.

College students spend approximately $410 a month eating off campus, according to an Education Data Initiative study.

Students who eat home-cooked meals average approximately at $263 monthly which is more cost effective for students on a tight budget.

However, Ernst-Smith agrees with Hernandez’s sentiment over the variety of food being served in the Dining Commons. Also believing there are more than enough food options that students can select from in the center.

“They have a salad bar and a burrito station,” Ernst-Smith said. “There’s always so many colorful options in food readily available that you even see faculty and off-campus residents eating there too.”

Ernst-Smith emphasized the importance of offering balanced meals, in line with recommendations from the Harvard Healthy Eating Plate Model.

Luis Valencia, an executive chef at Dining Commons for more than four years, said his mission is to serve meals that are both delicious and nutritious.

“We serve students throughout the day, the most challeng-

ing and important meal to prepare is dinner,” Valencia said. “With about 2,000 students expecting a meal, there’s a lot of prep-work that needs to be done to ensure they get served a delicious meal.”

Valencia said that he works to offer options such as chicken masala, lentils and leafy greens to help fit it into a balanced diet for students. Prep work usually takes place a day before it gets to be dished out.

With QR codes now on every table, communication on new menu ideas has improved with the help of students.

“I’m actually surprised this semester because we’ve been getting better reviews and new ideas on what to cook, like how we had sushi bake last week–it was a big hit,” Valencia said.

He also makes sure to publicize each meal’s ingredients, which is crucial for students with allergies. “If a student is allergic to fish sauce and we use it in fried rice, we do our best to note it in the meal descriptions,” Valencia said.

Sandy Huyen, a third-year nutrition student with religious dietary restrictions, appreciates the clear labeling at Dining Commons. “It’s great that the chefs are sensitive to student’s dietary needs and religious concerns because I can also relate since I choose not to eat meat on certain days,” Huyen said.

As a Buddhist who avoids meat and dairy on certain days, Huyen values the vegan options and meat substitutes available, though she wishes the dishes offered more unique flavors. “There is always room for improvement since food is not only meant to fill your stomach, but meant to also bring you an experience,” Huyen said.

SJSU Dining Commons Chef station Photo: Angela Nguyen

“There’s always so many colorful options in food readily available that you even see faculty and offcampus residents eating there too.”

Jacqueline Ernest-Smith SJSU Dietian

“There’s options for vegan food and other meat substitutes where I know I can still get my protein source in, but I do wish they had more unique flavors that helped to enhance their entrees,” Huyen said.

With protein playing an important role in our health, doctors recommend approximately consuming 1 gram of protein for every kilogram of body weight for an average person, according to a Harvard study.

Students like Huyen and Hernandez remain hopeful that, in the near future, the Dining Commons will better align its pricing with the quality of food served, ultimately making the Dining experience more satisfying and accessible for all students.

SJSU students having a meal at the Dining Commons Photo: Angela Nguyen

Spring 2025 | ACCESS MAGAZINE | 27

Distance to Dreams and Degrees Diego Macaraeg Staff Writer | @diego.myeggo

Isabela Rodriguez Mata, a molecular biology junior, spends nearly three hours on the road commuting from Gilroy to San José State University three times a week in her Honda Civic.

A transfer student from Gavilan College and Starbucks barista in Morgan Hill, Rodriguez Mata balances a demanding schedule of work and school. “In the morning, traffic is hell,” she said. The long drive, rising gas costs and latenight refueling add to the stress. “I usually get gas when I get home at night from school, but it’s scary so I prefer to do it during the day.”

Isabela Rodriguez Mata drives out of the West Garage after a long day of work and school Photos: Diego Macaraeg

Still, she finds moments of peace in the commute. “It’s my car and it’s my space—it brings me happiness.”

After graduation, Rodriguez Mata hopes to pursue one of two career paths. “I would like to either go into biotech or medical school,” she said.

Emanuel Romo, an advertising major at San José State University, commutes to campus by skateboard from his off-campus apartment, a ride that takes him less than five minutes.

As a heavy sleeper, Romo relies on the speed of his skateboard to get to class on time. He’s still adjusting to life in a larger city and learning to navigate challenges like sharing a bathroom with multiple roommates.

Romo said he dreams of becoming creative director at an advertising agency and looks up to unconventional thinkers like Hunter S. Thompson. “I don’t see myself fitting into the status quo—I see myself thinking outside of the box and coming up with creative ideas,” he said. He’s especially critical of modern advertising, which he feels relies too heavily on celebrity cameos and lacks originality. “A lot of ads that try to tell stories are boring and bland—they are very forgettable,” he said.

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Emanuel Romo skates quickly to class on his longboard

With a used Lascoota scooter purchased for $30 through the SJSU Sammy app, sophomore Liam Peterson has cut his commute to campus down to just minutes.

A music education major who lives near San José State, Peterson used to jog to class after oversleeping. “The scooter has saved me and my attendance,” he said. What was once a 20-minute walk is now a quick five-to-seven-minute ride, allowing him to return without losing time.

Inspired by his middle school band director in Piedmont— who encouraged him to pursue teaching—Peterson hopes to one day lead the very same program. “My dream job is to take over for my middle school’s band director,” he said. “She built a really good program there, and to be able to do the same would be awesome.” He also said that he hopes to reach a point where he can play music professionally.

“Teachers don’t make a lot of money, but musicians get a decent amount of money, so it’s Graphics: Sarina Nemati a good supplemental income,” he said.

Liam Peterson crosses the street on his scooter

For Ethan Cheung, a second-year music education student, commuting by bike is a simple means of transportation, but it’s also the ride connecting his home to his future dreams.

Originally a bus rider, Cheung made the switch to cycling after getting to know the area better. “It cuts down on time, saves money and I get some good exercise,” he said. Cheung, who grew up in Dublin, moved with his family to San José when he and his sister were both accepted to SJSU. Inspired by his experience in high school marching band, he hopes to become a band director and “change the lives of his students.”

Ethan Cheung bikes to his family’s home in downtown San José

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Photo: Phuong Nguyen

STEPPING OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE 30 | ACCESS MAGAZINE | Spring 2025

Isabella Alvarez Staff Writer | @bayaalvarez

SJSU Dragon Boat Team Photo: Phuong Nguyen

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t’s normal to feel anxious and alone when transitioning to college. However, organizations and clubs offer students opportunities to branch out and meet new people while engaging in activities both familiar and unfamiliar.

The San José State University Club Sports page features a list of sports that students can join—some year-round while others are seasonal. Alongside some of your favorite sports are a handful of unique ones that might surprise students to learn are offered at SJSU. It is unclear why sports like Dragon boat racing, archery and ultimate frisbee are not popular among students.

What is it about these sports that separates them from common ones everyone has heard about?

The SJSU Dragon Boat Team Dragon boat racing is a unique water sport featuring teams of 16 to 20 people sitting in pairs, with a drummer in the front and helmsperson in the back. The drummer beats in a rhythm to help keep the paddlers in unison, while the helmsperson guides the boat.

According to the International Dragon Boat Federation, the sport stems from Chinese culture, originating more than 2,000 years ago in southern China as a fertility ritual to bring good luck to the upcoming crop season. Its origin story has changed over the years, but the goal ultimately remains the same: to win the 250-meter race.

The SJSU Dragon Boat team was first started in 2013 by a group of friends, but was officially recognized by the

university in 2021. Since then, the club has held practices, socials and fundraisers to improve for competitions and build stronger connections with their teammates.

According to Coach Johnathon Lu, the team receives around $3,000 in funding from the university. He explained that the team has alternative methods to raise money, through fundraising, club fees and school grants or scholarships.

“That’s why it’s a little hard for us to grow our sport, because everything’s out of our own pockets,” Coach Lu said. “All of these people here, they’re all really committed, which is great. But it’s just unfortunate that we can’t grow the sport.”

The team dedicates two days every week to practice for competitions, holding socials outside of those practices for members to get to know each other. As well as socials and practices, the club also hosts workout pods at the SJSU Event Center, encouraging people to come and workout to build their strength and endurance.

“We tried to get into a different club sport, we got rejected and then we discovered Dragon Boat through friends, or like me personally, I just browsed the club sports page.” Coach Lu explained that no prior experience in racing is necessary to join the team, “Join the Discord, see how it feels. If it’s not really your thing, then it’s fine, but at least join and see whether or not you are enjoying it.”

Team Captain Julianna Ruidera emphasized that they don’t just focus on competitions, but strengthening their bonds.

“Even if you don’t like it, there’s some people who have tried the sport and they’re like, it’s not really for me,” Ruidera said “But they make connections with a bunch of people and we’re still friends now.”

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according to an article published by Britannica. By the early 1600s, the bow was replaced by guns and only used for hunting and recreation; multiple archery organizations have actively been competing for sport since then. Different categories of archery include target archery and indoor/field archery.

Individual events have archers shooting 72 arrows in the qualification phase, the total score is used to determine the rankings for the match play phase. During the match play phase, archers or teams compete in best-of-five sets. Archers shoot a predetermined number of arrows during each set, and the ones with a better overall score earn two points for winning the set.

In individual events, three arrows equal one set, but four arrows for a mixed event and six for a team event. The first archer or team to get six points is declared the winner in a match play and the losers are eliminated. In the case that the scores are level after five sets, the match play goes into a tie-break. The winner is determined by whose arrow lands the closest to the target in individual events, while match play or team events have archers shoot again,the team with the higher score wins.

Coach Shimpei Koike explained how he and other coaches use Saturday practices to help other archers improve their skills. “Archery is such an individualistic sport that you don’t need a team,” he said. “So you can put in as much time or as little time as you want.”

SJSU Archery Club member aiming their bow at the target Photo: Phuong Nguyen

The SJSU Archery Club The Archery Club at SJSU is another semi-competitive team, welcoming new and inexperienced students, as well as those with experience to come check out their practices.

Cassandra Santander, a fourth-year student at SJSU, talked about her experience on the team since she joined last Spring.

“We’re completely open to newcomers if you are interested in trying it out,” Santander said. “And along with that, any fears that anyone might have about shooting, it can definitely be answered by asking questions about how it goes, and even potential safety questions because I know that’s sometimes on people’s minds.”

The history of archery goes back hundreds of years, being used as a weapon of war and hunting throughout the world,

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Archery equipment is relatively expensive, even for basic equipment, but through university funding, the club is able to provide bows and arrows for students to rent out if needed.

“It’s not like some things where you have to buy new stuff,” Coach Koike said. “Conversely, you can get in for as cheap as $300 for a full setup. It is an entry level thing that you can just plink with, have fun with your friends and learn the fundamentals.”

The team competes in tournaments in the West Coast Region, with different divisions based on their skills. Competitions have also given students the chance to connect with students all over the globe.

The Archery Club is not only a way for students to de-stress, but also an opportunity to mingle with other SJSU archers.

“Last week I went to the range clean-up party where we helped the owners fix up all the targets and make new targets. It was hard work but still really fun,” Elizabeth Davis, a fourth-year student at SJSU and year long member of the club, said.

The SJSU Ultimate Frisbee Team Although students may be unfamiliar with the sport, Ultimate Frisbee is a fast-paced and easy game to learn, while still giving athletes the same adrenaline rush that other competitive sports give them!

According to the World Flying Disc Federation, Ultimate Frisbee consists of two teams of seven players competing on a narrower football field. On both ends of the field are end zones, with each team defending one zone and scoring a goal by catching a disc in the endzone. The sport is similar to soccer and football, in regards to the concept and rules of the game.

The sport was first introduced in 1968 by Joel Silver, who presented his idea to the Colombia High School student council in Maplewood, New Jersey. A year later, the first game would be played using coats and telephone poles to mark the field boundaries using the Wham-O Disc.

Competitions are held statewide, and the team has gone to various competitions around the state, including to San Diego. Within the last season, the Ultimate Frisbee team received around $22,000 of funding from the school. The team also holds fundraisers for travel expenses during tournaments.

The SJSU team is highly competitive, holding three practices a week in preparation for their games. While many players shared their love for the sport, some passionately shared why they’ve stuck around for the long run.“It’s very rewarding, it really gets you plugged into the community, especially when it comes to networking with other schools,” Caleb Mock, president of the Ultimate Frisbee team, said. “I love this team and I didn’t necessarily step into this position on my own accord, but I would do it again in a heartbeat.”

“I love this team and I didn’t necessarily step into this position on my own accord, but I would do it again in a heartbeat.”

SJSU Ultimate Frisbee Team member catching a frisbee during practice Photo: Phuong Nguyen

Caleb Mock President of the Ultimate Frisbee Team Spring 2025 | ACCESS MAGAZINE | 33

SOLE PURPOSE

Kennedy Mayo Social Media Manager | @kennedymayo_

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hen Micah Nash walks into a room, it’s not his presence that catches your attention—it’s his shoes. Whether he’s walking around campus or hanging out with friends, his sneakers are always making a bold statement. Through his diverse collection of Pumas, Jordans, Adidas, and more, there is a story, a memory and a deep-rooted passion that began before stepping onto campus.

“Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always liked shoes, and shoes have been a big passion of mine,” Nash said.

Now a junior studying journalism at San José State University, Nash has turned his love for sneakers into a passion. His collection, which began five years ago, is a testament to his unwavering dedication and speaks volumes about his deep appreciation for sneaker culture. Shoe collecting is more than just a hobby; it’s a form of self-expression.

According to Collectibles, collecting sneakers as a hobby is a concept that has picked up speed in recent years. But the passion for sneakers owes its thanks to two major events: the introduction of the ever popular Air Jordan, named after famous basketball player Michael Jordan, and the hip-hop movement, which turned sneakers into a status symbol.

The cultural significance of sneaker collecting is intriguing, and Nash’s dedication is truly inspiring.

Originally from Richmond, California, Nash has been building his sneaker collection since 2020, though it has

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been a significant part of his life since childhood. He said his passion for shoes shaped his identity and influenced his journey, making his story even more compelling “I started collecting shoes in 2020, and at first, it was me buying shoes that I wasn’t able to get as a kid, and then progressing to me buying shoes that I liked,” Nash said.

The passion to buy shoes not only started when he wasn’t able to get them as a kid, but also from the influence of his older brother, whose footsteps he wanted to follow.

“I remember watching my older brother get the newest Jordans when I was younger and wanted to follow that and start collecting,” Nash said.

Photo: Kennedy Mayo Photos by Kennedy Mayo

His collection—a vibrant mix of Nike, Jordan, Adidas, Puma and New Balance—currently stands at 80 to 100 pairs. The variety of sneakers showcases his appreciation for both popular and unique brands.

this year, and I want to collect as many shoes that I can. I’ll probably start trading them for shoes that I really want. I really want to continue my collection until I’m satisfied with everything I have,” Nash said.

“I collect brands like Nike, Jordan, Adidas, Puma, New Balance and any other brand, and I think it’s cool I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to collect these shoes over the past couple of years,” Nash said.

As Micah Nash continues to walk his path as a journalist and a sneakerhead, each pair of shoes he adds to his collection will reflect more than style. Each one shows a reflection of a lifelong story. From childhood dreams to a collection that started 5 years ago, Nash’s commitment to his passion is unwavering. He has no plans of slowing down and is determined to continue expanding his collection. For him, the journey is far from over—in fact it’s only beginning.

His goal is not only to show appreciation, but to expand this diverse collection to 105 to 110 pairs of shoes by the end of the year.

“I’m on pace to have over 105 to 110 pairs by the end of

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Stem is Fem

Dhwani Adhishesh Staff Writer | @dhwanii_adhishesh

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nly 35% of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) graduates globally are female, despite women making up more than half of all college students worldwide, according to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics. At San José State University’s Charles W. Davidson College of Engineering, women comprise just 15% of the student body.

Why is this disparity an issue, and how are women in STEM navigating it?

Several students and experts shared their insights on how women are learning to advance in their field despite the smaller demographic in their classes, and create overall workplace representation in a male-dominated STEM society.

Dipti Gupta, a first-year civil engineering major at SJSU, was inspired to pursue STEM because of her father’s career in software engineering. She hoped to enter a more hands-on field and combine her love for design with academics. Gupta chose SJSU to continue her education becauseshe believed the journey would be more hands-on at a California State University campus compared to other research-based institutions.

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Gupta is an avid student, but she and many of her female peers have encountered unsettling and demeaning experiences in their classroom settings. “It can feel like when professors are explaining a concept, they are only talking to them [men] and not you— whether that be through simple conversational eye contact, or asking questions and making sure we understand the material,” Gupta said. “The only way to succeed is knowing that you have that support and determination to succeed, even when you’re constantly doubted.”

Gupta isn’t the only student feeling like an imposter in an already highly demanding and often stereotypical environment.

Kaitlyn Lynch, a third-year molecular biology major at SJSU, hopes to pursue a career in genetics.

L y n c h often feels undermined a r o u n d men in her lab courses. “They [men] will literally say it’s wrong and I’m right,” Lynch said. “It’s really judgmental and it feels like they just don’t listen.” Similarly to Gupta, Lynch emphasized the

importance of support, but more specifically support with other women in STEM majors, not just loved ones. “My advice would be to make friends in your classes. When you don’t have a support system, it’s kind of hard as a STEM major, especially if you’re getting talked down to constantly,” Lynch said.

Sheryl Ehrman, dean of the Charles W. Davidson School of Engineering at SJSU, grew up in Silicon Valley and became aware of the challenges semiconductors were facing, particularly exposure to chemicals in their jobs from groundwater.

She wanted to be part of the solution, so when a math teacher suggested chemical engineering, she decided to declare her major in her second year of college.

“There were more women in chemical engineering, but some of my friends in other disciplines would be the only women in class after class—it was frustrating,” she said. It was often difficult for Dean Ehrman to be in a space that was taken over by the opposite gender, making her feel isolated at times.

Post-grad, Dean Ehrman says that the gender stereotypes and taboo around women in STEM fields is still prevalent in more professional settings. “I’ve had to assert myself and say, ‘Yes, I do have the appropriate qualifications to be here,’” she said. Throughout her time on campus, she’s noticed the constant stereotype that women are rarely the ones taking the hands-on roles in engineering projects.

“We’re not doing enough to support and teach the men that the world works better when you fully engage the 51% of the population in all the activities— not just writing the report,” she said. Dean Ehrman wants women on campus to know that they must apply themselves and network their ways into securing the workplace representation they deserve.

However, campus representation is only a small aspect of the solution. Most students, if not all, pursue their education to land jobs in bustling industries. With an unbalanced gender Graphic: Sarina Nemati

gap, it is important for STEM majors on campus to be aware of how to prosper beyond the academic setting and launch themselves into the professional world. A veteran in dealing with these challenges, Kreya Shah, expounded on her experiences in the competitive field as a South Asian woman.

Shah is currently a data engineer for Zillow, an American real estate marketplace. Shah received her bachelor’s degree in computer engineering from India and finished her master’s at California State University, Chico. From a young age, she developed curiosity in engineering, as her older brother was an engineer. She grew interested in the degree as early as fifth grade, when computers were introduced in her classrooms.

Having been raised in India and completed her undergraduate education there, Shah emphasized the difference of gender ratio in STEM between India and the United States. “There’s definitely a difference. In India, the [gender] ratio was 40:60.

In my master’s program, there were five to seven women in my class.” In the workplace specifically, Shah believes that women often need to back up their opinions with facts. “You have to make an extra effort to make your voice heard… communication is much easier in a group of women [versus men]. Nobody questions male judgment, but it is not the same with the female counterpart,” she said. “Don’t shy away, focus on the communication aspect.It helps to build more connections with women and also seek mentorship” Shah explains.

As the population of STEM majors increases, so should their confidence in being able to pursue their careers in a male-dominated society.

The experiences of both students on campus and many of their mentors indicate optimism that the lack of workplace representation will improve. Smaller populations of women should never shy away from bigger dreams.

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Photo of Alejandra Gallo and Jason Parker Photo by Analyn Do

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ACCESS TEAM EXECUTIVE EDITORS Amaya Reynolds, Taylor Shepherd CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nicole Cailles CONTENT EDITOR Alejandra Gallo, Diego Macaraeg COPY EDITORS Angela Nguyen, Sarah Mosteller SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Kennedy Mayo, Mercedes Mikhailov GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Arella Eusebio, Aira Garcia, Chaman Xiao, Sarina Nemati, Sicely Aguilar, Shreya Gupta STAFF WRITERS Dhwani Adhishesh, Isabella Alvarez, Michelle Sanchez, Shuran Luo, Sofi Cipriano PHOTOGRAPHERS Phuong Nguyen, Analyn Do, Jason Parker ADVISER Nisha Garud Patkar Spring 2025 | ACCESS MAGAZINE | 39

Victory Salute Statue on Tower Lawn Photo:Jason Parker