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New Students Ready to Learn and Serve Welcomed Into the President’s Scholars Program

Twenty Scholars Join Merit-Based Program This Fall
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A fan of TV crime shows, Amaris Aloise wants to become a forensic anthropologist and work in law enforcement. Rebecca Bao plans on a career as an elementary school teacher. Naman Shah’s goal is to go to medical school to be an orthopedic surgeon. Classmate Amaya Gregory is an aspiring emergency room physician.

These Cal State Fullerton students are part of the 2018 incoming class of President’s Scholars — a group of 20 freshmen who are accomplished and high-achieving high school graduates selected for the merit-based scholarship program. The comprehensive, rigorous program, which started 39 years ago on campus, offers experiences and opportunities in academics, leadership, community service and mentorship.

Gregory, a biological science major from Lincoln, near Sacramento, knew CSUF was her college of choice when she first toured the campus.

“I chose CSUF because of its community feel. Community is something that is really important to me since I would be moving far away from where I grew up,” she said. “I immediately fell in love with the campus and knew that CSUF was the place where I would build a new family, and truly make an impact.”

Since starting college this fall, Gregory has made new friends and she’s been paired with peer mentors — senior President’s Scholars — to guide her during the first-year and throughout her college journey. She also has engaged in service to the community, including participating in a local event to promote civil rights for the disabled. Gregory looks forward to the next four years of college to work toward her goal of making a difference as a health professional.

“I hope to one day impact the lives of others and make a strong change in the world by entering the medical field,” Gregory said.

To date, 456 scholars have graduated from the program, which provides a four-year scholarship that covers tuition and fees, a stipend for books and parking permit. Other benefits to scholars include use of a laptop computer, priority registration for classes and admission to the University Honors program.