Student Profiles

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."

Jack chose Finance for the versatility it offers. "I want to have a career in business, but I'm not exactly sure where I want to go with it," he explains. "Finance gives me a range of options." One of his favorite courses so far has been Critical Thinking and Writing. "My professor was interesting and challenged my writing," he says. Beyond academics, Jack competes on Santa Clara's men's golf team, an experience he describes as challenging but deeply rewarding. "It has taught me a lot about being disciplined and dedicated, in the classroom and on the golf course," he notes.

Receiving the Fr. Coz Scholarship has meant a great deal to Jack and his family. "Getting the help necessary to attend Santa Clara is something that I will always be grateful for," he says. "I can't thank the donors to the Fr. Coz Scholarship and everyone involved enough for giving me this help." He hopes to honor that support by living out the values he's found at SCU. "I hope I can pay it forward by living out a Jesuit-guided life and trying to help out others who are in need."

Jack's family connection to Santa Clara runs especially deep. His grandfather graduated in 1966 and was a member of the “Rodants”.  This was a class and a group that was very close to Fr. Coz when they were on campus and the years afterward. "He still remembers seeing Fr. Coz around," Jack shares, "and the interactions he had with him and his class." Looking to the future, Jack hopes to pursue professional golf after graduation, supported by the resources and connections Santa Clara has provided. "The resources that Santa Clara provides are unmatched," he says. "Through the alumni network and the skills I've learned here, there are connections I can reach out to and people who are willing to help."

To the donors who make the Fr. Coz Scholarship possible, Jack extends his heartfelt thanks. "Thank you so much for your contributions to help further my education at Santa Clara," he says. "My family and I are extremely grateful for your support and everything that you do."