At the end of each semester, the University of Nevada, Reno and the Nevada Alumni Association recognize one undergraduate student from each school or college who fits the Senior Scholar program criteria. The scholars are given a framed certificate, a commemorative booklet and a Senior Scholar pin to honor their achievements. Below, you can learn more about each individual who has embodied The Wolf Pack Way with their dedication to their studies and significant accomplishments though Question and Answer interviews.
Julianna Li
College of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Natural Resources
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, GPA: 4.00
Mentor: Matthew Tucker, Ph.D.
Why did you choose to attend the University of Nevada, Reno?
I chose the University due to its proximity to my home in Las Vegas and its unique natural surroundings, including Lake Tahoe, which offers a perfect balance between academics and outdoor experiences. The University also has abundant research opportunities and organizations that make campus life exciting.
How did you decide on your major?
I chose biochemistry because it covers a broad range of sciences. I enjoyed taking classes in chemistry, molecular biology and biophysics that have allowed me to explore various, interesting scientific perspectives.
What is your favorite college memory?
One of my favorite college memories is attending basketball games. I love feeling the unity among students as we cheer for our school, and the excitement of the competition always makes it even more fun!
Why did you select your mentor?
Taking one of my most challenging classes with Dr. Tucker taught me the importance to ask questions during the learning process. In his research lab, I’ve also had countless opportunities to grow my curiosity and learn in an encouraging environment. I am grateful for all the experiences he has supported!
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, my plans are to attend medical school here at the University and pursue my dreams of becoming a physician!
Hannah Marie Taylor
The College of Business
Accounting, GPA: 4.00
Mentor: Matthew Hayes, Ph.D.
Why did you choose to attend the University of Nevada, Reno?
When I was a junior in high school, I visited the University and fell in love with the beautiful campus. I also wanted to attempt to live on my own while staying in the state.
How did you decide on your major?
During my last year of high school, I took a personal finance class. I found it to be quite interesting and thought accounting would be somewhat similar to that class. After taking my first accounting course at the University, I knew for sure that this was the major for me.
What is your favorite college memory?
My favorite college memory is going to the Nevada v. Air Force football game in 2021. The game was super close the entire time and ended up going into triple overtime. Unfortunately, we lost in the end, but I still think it was the most fun game I have ever been to.
Why did you select your mentor?
I chose Professor Hayes as my mentor because he is the faculty advisor for Beta Alpha Psi, the organization where I am serving as president for the 2024-25 academic year. He has given me a ton of helpful advice throughout the year and I really enjoyed taking his ACC 402 class.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I will continue studying for the CPA exams and try to pass all 4 by the end of the summer. In October, I will be starting as a full-time Business Tax Associate at RubinBrown in Las Vegas.
Kasandra Medina-Torres
College of Education & Human Development
Integrated Elementary Education, GPA: 4.00
Mentor: Eleni Oikonomidoy, Ph.D.
Why did you choose to attend the University of Nevada, Reno?
I chose to attend the University because Nevada is my home, and I wanted to keep growing with my friends and family here. The University also has a very beautiful campus, and I remember being in awe when I had my first tour.
How did you decide on your major?
I had amazing teachers throughout my life who believed in me and helped me through difficult parts of my life, and I want to make similar impacts on students of my own. As a student teacher now, I have seen just how rewarding this major truly is.
What is your favorite college memory?
Some of my favorite memories come from being a part of the education association (UofNEA) on campus! I became the State Student President of the Nevada State Education Association, and I also traveled to Philadelphia for the Aspiring Educators Conference with some of my favorite people.
Why did you select your mentor?
I chose Dr. Eleni as my mentor because I was one of her fellows for two years in the NIEPRR program. Throughout that time, she inspired and encouraged me to grow as an educator and as a person. After the fellowship ended, she continued to check in with me and provided me with guidance for success.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to teach in Nevada after graduation and hopefully make a positive impact on my future students while continuing to advocate for them both inside and outside the classroom.
Sean Adams
College of Engineering
Computer Science and Engineering & Electrical Engineering, GPA: 4.00
Mentor: Mehdi Etezadi-Amoli, Ph.D.
Why did you choose to attend the University of Nevada, Reno?
I was born in Reno and I chose the University because it allowed me to stay close to family while pursuing dual majors in computer science and electrical engineering. Also, I believe that the Reno Tahoe area is a pretty cool place to be!
How did you decide on your major?
I've always had a passion for computer science and software engineering, but I chose to also pursue electrical engineering as well since it didn't quite resonate with me to be working with computers and not understand how the hardware functioned.
What is your favorite college memory?
My favorite college memory was from sophomore year. We went out to the Black Rock Desert as part of the Aerospace Club to launch a high-power rocket and test our custom flight avionics. It was pretty awesome to see the successful culmination of our work on this project.
Why did you select your mentor?
I chose Dr. Etezadi-Amoli as my mentor because his class was one of the most rigorous of my degree and his teaching, support, and high expectations pushed me to perform at my best and left a lasting impression on my academic journey. He genuinely cares about helping his students succeed.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I will be moving to New York City to take up a position as a software engineer for a financial technology firm. I'm excited for the opportunity to grow my skills in a fast-paced environment where I can learn from talented engineers.
Alexa Savage
College of Liberal Arts
Spanish & Environmental Science, GPA: 4.00
Mentor: Roberto Ortiz, ’02, ’05 M.A.
Why did you choose to attend the University of Nevada, Reno?
I grew up in Reno and I wanted to attend a school close to my family and friends. The affordability of college also played a large role in my college decision, so when I was offered the Presidential scholarship to attend the University, that solidified my choice.
How did you decide on your major?
As a Spanish heritage speaker, it was a no-brainer for me that I would major in Spanish. I knew that taking Spanish classes would help improve my speaking, writing and presentation skills. I also wanted the opportunity to practice the language in academic and professional settings outside of my home.
What is your favorite college memory?
I have a lot of college memories that are dear to me. These include hosting Spanish club meetings, being a Liberal Arts FIT mentor, participating in internships, celebrating with friends after finals, going to fitness classes, using my study breaks to walk around campus and so much more!
Why did you select your mentor?
Professor Ortiz was the first University professor I met. Since our first meeting, he’s been a big part of my college experience as a professor, faculty advisor, and club advisor for the Spanish Club. We also share the same cultural heritage, which has made me feel represented on campus.
What are your plans after graduation?
Immediately after graduation, I am looking forward to taking some well-deserved time off from school. I also plan to earn my certification as a Spanish/English language interpreter.
Ashton Gabriel Sharp
College of Science
Psychology and Spanish, GPA: 4.00
Mentor: Dean Hinitz, ’88 Ph.D.
Why did you choose to attend the University of Nevada, Reno?
As a low-income, first-gen student, the University was the perfect fit for me because it was affordable and had the resources to support me on my journey. Additionally, once I toured the campus for the first time, I knew this was where I wanted to be.
How did you decide on your major?
In high school, I was deeply interested in studying mental health. As such, psychology was the clear path for me because it would hold the answers I was looking for, as well as introduce me to the wide range of topics that psychology encompasses.
What is your favorite college memory?
By far, my favorite memory was having the opportunity to study abroad in Alicante, Spain for the Fall 2024 semester with USAC. Being abroad was an adventure every day - the people I met, experiences I had and lessons I learned will stay with me forever.
Why did you select your mentor?
I am sure that anyone who’s taken a class with Dr. Hinitz knows why I selected him as my mentor. He is endlessly entertaining, wise and thoughtful. His lessons in the classroom transcend the course, providing a motivating perspective on how to live your life to the fullest.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’m graduating two years early, so I’ve got a lot of time on my hands. Therefore, I plan on taking a gap year, and I hope to spend a lot of it traveling. Afterward, I plan on going to grad school, either for social work or sports psychology.
Megan Nicole Huynh
Honors College
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, GPA: 4.00
Mentor: Elena Pravosudova, Ph.D.
Why did you choose to attend the University of Nevada, Reno?
I wanted to stay close to home while still experiencing college life of living with friends and being independent. The University's generous scholarships allowed me to enjoy my undergraduate years without the burden of debt, and I had also heard great things about its strong science program.
How did you decide on your major?
I was between biology and biochemistry, and I went with biochemistry because I thought it would be more fun to have a mix of biology and chemistry. I'm glad I did because I actually enjoyed all the biochemistry classes and didn’t have to take the evolution class.
What is your favorite college memory?
I loved being with my sophomore-year roommates. There would be times when we'd all cook dinner together or do baking challenges and it was lots of fun. We would also stay up until 4 a.m. talking on the couch at least three times a week so there was never a boring moment.
Why did you select your mentor?
Dr. Pravosudova (head of the BIOL 495 honors) suggested I become a BIOL 190 discussion leader during office hours. I was terrible at public speaking, so I never considered teaching, but it built my leadership skills and confidence. Her kindness was part of the reason I continued for five semesters!
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to go back home to Vegas, apply for medical schools in the early summer, and get a job as a scribe or a medical assistant to gain more clinical experience. I'm also planning to go on a trip to Asia with my sister later this year!
Mackenzie Baker
Orvis School of Nursing
Nursing, GPA: 3.96
Mentor: Kim Buell '00
Why did you choose to attend the University of Nevada, Reno?
I chose to go to the University because I was raised in Reno. I grew up going to football and basketball games with my family. I also chose the University because I knew that Orvis is one of the top nursing schools in the area.
How did you decide on your major?
I have always wanted to help people and I knew I could do that by becoming a nurse. Both of my parents are firefighters which influenced my interest in becoming a nurse as well.
What is your favorite college memory?
One of my favorite college memories is meeting new friends and developing relationships with supporting professors. Another college memory is early morning workouts at the campus gym with my sister because we always have fun.
Why did you select your mentor?
I selected Professor Buell because since Level 1 in nursing school, she has always been someone I can talk to. She is always smiling and willing to listen. She is very caring and passionate about helping others.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to stay in Reno and work at a Renown. I plan on helping the community through my work and volunteering as well.
Kyra Fields
Donald W. Reynolds School of Journalism
Journalism, GPA: 4.00
Mentor: Joshua Anderson, DMA
Why did you choose to attend the University of Nevada, Reno?
The University had everything I was looking for in a school: great teachers, lots of options and plenty of amazing opportunities.
How did you decide on your major?
I always knew I wanted to be in film and the journalism program provides that opportunity. I not only have a great base in film studies, but also in writing, design and ethics which are so important to a successful career. RSJ covers so much ground to prepare students for so many different careers!
What is your favorite college memory?
My favorite college memory has been meeting the incredible group of friends I’ve made and the opportunities the University provided me with. I couldn't imagine my life without them, and I feel so lucky to have such an amazing community around me.
Why did you select your mentor?
I selected Dr. Anderson as my mentor because I have learned so much from him; not only about music but also about responsibility, kindness, friendship and life. He cares for each and every one of his students and makes everyone he meets feel respected and valued.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be completing administrative work for the Cordillera International Film Festival, as well as working on professional film sets in various roles in the production team and on set. I'm most excited to attend the Cannes International Film Festival this year for an incredible internship.
Allison K Frost
School of Medicine
Speech Pathology and Audiology
GPA: 4.00
Mentor: Rachael Walden ’99, ’01 M.S.
Why did you choose to attend the University of Nevada, Reno?
I chose to attend the University because of its excellent speech-language pathology program and the scholarship they offered me. I'm from Nevada, so this is home. Being able to stay close to my family while also accomplishing my goals was a great opportunity I could not pass up.
How did you decide on your major?
I chose speech-language pathology because it was a combination of several of my passions: science, working with kids, and helping people. As a kid, I went to speech therapy in school. My SLP made a huge impact on my life and I want to be able to do the same for the next generation of students.
What is your favorite college memory?
My favorite college memory was mentoring a group of freshmen during NevadaFIT. It was really rewarding to help them build connections and offer them advice during a major transitional life period. I did it with my friends and it was cool to see how much we've grown ourselves since we were freshmen.
Why did you select your mentor?
I selected Ms. Walden as a mentor because she has always been there to help me with a smiling face, even if it wasn't related to class. She has shown me what type of speech-language pathologist I want to be in the future: honest, hardworking and empathetic.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to pursue my master’s degree in speech-language pathology here at the University.
Sierra Lea Wilson
School of Public Health
Community Health Science, GPA: 4.00
Mentor: Eric Crosbie, Ph.D.
Why did you choose to attend the University of Nevada, Reno?
I chose to attend the University because I wanted to pursue my education in my hometown. Born and raised in Reno, attending school here has allowed me to remain close to family and keep the Sierras as my backyard!
How did you decide on your major?
I decided to major in public health because I thought the courses sounded the most interesting and applicable to my future. As a pre-medical student, it has been so beneficial to learn how healthcare can be approached from a community or global perspective, rather than just at the individual level.
What is your favorite college memory?
While it is difficult to pick just one, my favorite college memory has to be joining my sorority Sigma Kappa. This experience allowed me to meet my best friends, give back to my community and be a part of something greater than myself.
Why did you select your mentor?
I chose Dr. Eric Crosbie as my mentor because throughout my academic journey, he has been supportive, encouraging and offered me so many opportunities for growth. I would never have known how much research experience I could gain at only the undergraduate level if it were not for him.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan on applying to medical school to take my next steps toward becoming a physician!
Rin Xiong
School of Social Work
Social Work and Psychology, GPA: 4.00
Mentor: Lucy Cummings, MSW
Why did you choose to attend the University of Nevada, Reno?
I chose to attend the University because I wanted to see what living on my own was like while still being close to my parents. It was affordable, had incredible faculty to support my education and had amazing friends I would've never met if I hadn't gone to the University. Go Wolf Pack!
How did you decide on your major?
I’ve always loved psychology, but I added social work after a guest speaker from Healing Minds visited my class. It was my first real exposure to the field and I fell in love immediately. Plus, it gave me a great alternative to med school (which, turns out, was not for me). No regrets!
What is your favorite college memory?
I'll never forget when I went to Andelin Farms for the haunted maze. I went with my roommate and found out she would sacrifice me if she got jump scared. I also found out I am not stealthy at all - you would know it's me by my ankle cracks.
Why did you select your mentor?
I’m so glad Lucy was my instructor. Not only were her lessons engaging and supportive of the class, but with her insight, she also helped me get through some of my roughest semesters in college. She's an incredible mentor, empowering us as professionals and encouraging us to challenge ourselves.
What are your plans after graduation?
I'm planning on continuing my education here at the University with the Advanced Standing Master of Social Work track! Beyond that, hopefully pursuing a Ph.D. relating to culture and social
