Cessair McKinney is a senior majoring in Environmental Science & Management with a concentration in Ecological Restoration. “Studying Ecological Restoration here is providing me with the tools to truly make a difference in the ecosystems around me in my future career,” says McKinney who is also a long distance runner on HSU’s Cross Country team. “To me, Humboldt State University represents a unique opportunity to better myself through academics, athletics, and new experiences. Humboldt State is a very special institution and I am glad to be able to attend it. I have met an amazing community of people here, I have seen beautiful places, and I have grown as a person since moving here.“

Daniel received his bachelor's degree in Sociology in 2010 and is currently working on his Certificate of Study in Geographic Information Systems. Daniel has been a dedicated member of the Y.E.S. House (Youth Educational Services) and even received the President's Volunteer Service Award for his work.

Hannah Thesell is a freshman majoring in Sociology. She is excited to attend Humboldt State because she feels HSU shares her values of environmental consciousness and social justice. In high school, Hannah co-founded and served as president of her school’s Human Rights Club. She hopes to use her HSU education to fulfill her dream of serving in the Peace Corps. Hannah’s mother attended HSU and has been bringing her on trips to visit the campus since she was a little girl. Hannah feels these visits greatly contributed to her desire to attend Humboldt State.

Griffin Bacik claimed to have never been one of those people who were good at everything, but with a few experiences with some inspiring teachers, he found his passion in science. "I was good at it – really good!" said Griffin. Currently a senior at Ukiah High School, Griffin is looking forward to studying biotechnology at Humboldt State, the alma mater of both his parents. "I like the idea of Humboldt as a small college; I think it will be more comfortable. Plus there are such great sciences here," said Griffin. Coming from a supportive family and a friendly town, Griffin says he is a lucky guy. Knowing this, he wants to help those he thinks aren't as lucky as he. "I wish to help those who have suffered devastating injuries, and perhaps, someday even help to prolong human life," said Griffin. "With the ongoing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, I believe there is a real need for such research. I hope my luck will be someone else's gain." Receiving this scholarship wasn't all luck, however, and the funds will help Griffin defray the cost of books and tuition. "I'm honored to receive the award and I absolutely appreciate the help."

Haylee Duey is a sophomore majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. She chose this major because she loves helping people budget their finances and save money. She hopes to go on to earn a Master’s in Business Administration from Humboldt State and become a financial planner. Haylee feels fortunate to grow up in Humboldt County and be able to stay local as she attends HSU. Outside of school Haylee works two part-time jobs and volunteers at the youth program she participated in when she was a child.

Chetco Jamgochian is a third-generation Humboldt State student. He is pursuing his undergraduate degree in Environmental Resources Engineering and minoring in Appropriate Technology. Jamgochian plans to focus his studies on renewable energy sources and sustainable, self-sufficient systems. His career and academic goals include becoming involved in renewable power production and earning a Master's degree in the process.Jamgochian is currently a volunteer at the Schatz Energy Resource Center and spends his summers teaching children at summer camps about renewable energies.

Aowyn Crailhardt is a sophomore double majoring in Business Administration and Economics. She believes environmental stewardship and social equity begin with responsible business management and dreams of becoming an entrepreneur who creates projects that are profitable, but also beneficial to the planet and global economy. Humboldt State has been an integral part of Aowyn’s life well before she became a student. As a young child, she went to Humboldt State’s Child Development Center while her mother attended classes at HSU. Aowyn has volunteered with several community service organizations including Food for People, Humboldt Roller Derby, Pastels on the Plaza, and Janes Creek Restoration Project.

Jesse Carpentier is the niece of a pair of Humboldt Alumni. She is majoring in Economics while earning a minor in Business. She currently represents the College of Professional Studies in HSU's student government. Carpentier is committed to the success of her fellow students. She works as a academic mentor with the campus's Residential Academic Mentoring Program and as a math tutor in the Learning Center. After graduating, she hopes to earn a teaching credential and teach Economics in high school.

Micah Chitraroff is a freshman majoring in Environmental Resources Engineering (ERE) and chose HSU because of the unique and diverse ecosystems that are so different from the ones in Riverside County where he grew up. He is excited about having classes in these environments.  Micah hopes earning an ERE degree will help him make a difference in the preservation and rehabilitation of the planet, something that is very important to him. In his spare time Micah enjoys reading and running as well as most outdoor sports and hobbies.

Benicio Benavides-Garb is a freshman majoring in International Studies and playing for HSU men’s soccer team. Benicio is interested in International Studies because of his fascination with the world and its diversity, as well as his desire to improve the quality of life for those within and beyond our human-made borders. He is excited to participate in the residency abroad program, which is a requirement of the International Studies Major. Benicio grew up in Humboldt County and went to McKinleyville High School.