Student Profiles

Evan Chin ’28, a Computer Science major with a specification in security and a minor in Responsible Artificial Intelligence, chose Santa Clara University for its Jesuit values of competence, conscience, and compassion. “Through SCU’s teachings, I’ve learned how ethics and empathy intersect with technology,” he explains. “In cybersecurity, conscience means recognizing the responsibility that comes with handling sensitive information, while compassion reminds us to approach every situation with care.”

Izabella Diaz, a junior Finance major, chose Santa Clara University for its unique location in the heart of Silicon Valley and its tight-knit community. Originally from Fairfield, California, Izabella forged her own path to SCU. She was drawn to finance by a desire to understand the systems that shape the world.

Mikayla Diaz ’28, a General Engineering major with minors in MIS and TIDEM, chose Santa Clara University after attending its Summer Engineering Seminar in high school. "I immediately fell in love with the campus and the environment around it," she recalls. Originally from Antioch, California, Mikayla came to SCU as a Mechanical Engineering major before a pivotal experience reshaped her path.

Jack Hayden, a Finance major at Santa Clara University, chose SCU for its great weather, beautiful campus, proximity to home, and deep family ties to the university. Originally from Dublin, California, Jack is continuing a family tradition at Santa Clara—both his grandfather and older brother attended before him. "My earliest memory was going to the welcome BBQ for my brother's class in the Mission Gardens," he recalls, "and getting to see the beauty of the campus and the Mission."

For Oliver Lund ’28, the decision to attend Santa Clara University was influenced by stories of lifelong friendships and meaningful experiences shared by alumni. “I wanted to be part of a community where connections extend far beyond graduation,” he says. Originally from Lafayette, California, Oliver first heard about SCU from a family friend who attended in the 1980s. “He spoke so highly of his time here that it stuck with me, and I knew I wanted to experience it myself,” Oliver recalls.

For Marcos Odegard ’28, choosing Santa Clara University was a natural fit for both his academic and personal values. “I was drawn to SCU because of the Jesuit tradition and strong sense of community,” he says. “My mother was a Carmelite nun for several years before marrying my father, who also had deep faith. Catholic values have been instilled in me from a young age, and I couldn’t be more proud to be at an institution that not only shares those values but actively incorporates them in classes and community life.” Originally from St. Paul, Minnesota, Marcos recalls his first visit vividly: “I was astonished by how welcoming everyone was, including President Julie Sullivan, who took the time to meet with us.”

RJ Meyn, a Communications major entering his junior year, chose Santa Clara University for its beautiful campus, elite academics, and the glowing recommendations of the many alumni he knew. Originally from Dublin, California, RJ felt at home almost immediately. His favorite class so far was his Religion 1 course, taken during his very first quarter. "Everyone was so welcoming, and it felt like I was a part of the SCU family the moment I walked in that door," he recalls.

Noelle Niederman, a junior Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering major, chose Santa Clara University for its strong engineering program and the opportunities it offered to grow both academically and personally. "SCU's engineering program stood out to me for its hands-on learning, small class sizes, and emphasis on innovation that connects theory to real-world impact," she says.

Delvin Ntale ’28, an Accounting major, chose Santa Clara University for its strong ties to his Catholic faith. "I was seeking a college community that was tied to my Catholic faith," he explains, "and SCU was the best fit when it came to that." Originally from Sacramento, California, Delvin was drawn to accounting by his love of problem-solving. "I enjoy tackling challenges with numbers," he says.

Stefan Bocanegra ’27, a double major in Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECEN) and Computer Science (CSEN), chose Santa Clara University for its location in Silicon Valley, its close proximity to home, and the intimate, supportive environment of a smaller school. Originally from San Carlos, California, Stefan also notes a family connection: “My mother came here for grad school, but I don’t have memories prior to moving in on Swig Day 1.”

For Lily Fang ’27, choosing Santa Clara University was both a practical and personal decision. “I chose SCU because it offers one of the top accounting programs in the country,” she says. “But beyond that, it provides a welcoming, supportive environment that encourages both academic and personal growth.” Originally from San Francisco, California, Lily remembers her first visit vividly: “My earliest memory is taking a campus tour after I was accepted. Walking through campus gave me a glimpse of the vibrant community I was so excited to join.”

For Jesse Glickstein ’27, the decision to attend Santa Clara University was shaped by both ambition and environment. “I wanted to go to a school in California with an excellent business program,” he says. “The proximity to the ocean, the mountains, and an urban center like San Francisco made SCU the perfect fit.” As a Finance major from Mount Kisco, New York, Jesse found in Santa Clara not just an academic home but a community that inspires growth, resilience, and service.

Matthew Hill ’27, a Neuroscience major, chose Santa Clara University for the generous scholarship and financial support it offered, along with its proximity to home and Catholic tradition. Originally from Yuba City, California, Matthew has been captivated by the study of the mind since discovering AP Psychology in high school.

For Jasmine Tabrizi ’27, choosing Santa Clara University came down to its Jesuit commitment to cura personalis—care for the whole person. “I really align with that value,” she says. “It emphasizes balance—challenging yourself academically, exploring new subjects, and still dedicating time to your personal life and support network.” That holistic approach to education, which focuses equally on intellect and well-being, is what made SCU feel like the right fit.

Alexandra Urbina ’27, a Finance major with a Marketing minor, chose Santa Clara University while being recruited to play Division I Beach Volleyball. "Considering the perfect location, beautiful campus, amazing education, and endless opportunities in the Bay Area, Santa Clara was a no-brainer," she says.