The COVID-19 pandemic changed the course of our history and the Wichita State University
campus
during the spring 2020 semester. While we cannot have a traditional commencement ceremony
in May, the WSU community celebrates our more than 2,400 Shocker graduates with a
spirit of unity and pride.
Here's what some of them have to say about their time at WSU and their futures.
School psychology grad
Amy Nguyen wanted a new challenge as a teacher. Wichita State University’s school
psychology program offers her the chance to add to use her teaching skills and add
new ones.
Biomedical engineering grad
Brandon Eckerman is nostalgic about his time at Wichita State University and is disappointed
he’s unable to celebrate graduation in the traditional sense. But he’s eager to start
a career in medical device sales.
Masters in Fine Arts, painting
Amy Huser’s plans for her master’s thesis gallery opening have been dashed by COVID-19,
but she’s not letting that stop her from achieving her graduate degree in a more virtual
manner.
Finance and economics grad
Cynthia Matson’s Wichita State University experiences and an internship opportunity
have led her to a full-time career in finance.
Accounting grad
Bush Vo was drawn the Wichita State University by the reputation of the Barton School
of Business, and he has been able to leverage the school’s resources to create opportunities
for himself.
Communication grad
Jade Mursch, a first-generation student, chose Wichita State to be close to family
and the affordability. During her time on campus, she has involved herself with her
sorority and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. She's excited about the opportunities
that are ahead after graduation.
Ph.D in Chemistry
Vinay K. Kadarla successfully defended his chemistry dissertation on April 30 amid
difficult circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Business grad
Angelique Banh comes from a Shocker family, so there was never any question of where
she would attend college. When she arrived on campus, she hit the ground running with
three majors and a member of the Cohen Honors College leadership track.
Education and biological science grad
Emily Reese plans to teach biology full time after graduation at a local high school.
While in college she's been actively involved in her sorority, Tri Delta and has enjoyed
her time studying in the College of Applied Studies.
Art history grad
Carter Bryant found his home at Wichita State University’s School of Art, Design and
Creative Industries as an art history major. He’s played roles in curating several
exhibits throughout the university and the general Wichita artistic community.
Secondary science education grad
Terry Blount, 38, is a non-traditional student who is married with two children. He
returned to school nine years ago with the goal of teaching science in middle school.
Aerospace engineering grad
Claudia Rojo, from Naron, Spain, will cross the finish line in strong form athletically
and academically. She graduates this spring and will begin a graduate research assistantship
at the National Institute for Aviation Research.
Social Work grad
With children and two full-time jobs, earning a degree was a herculean task for Felicia
Smith. But through intensive time-management, family help, and the support of the
Wichita State University community, she achieved her dream.
