Student Ambassador Bios
Bret
B.S. in Psychology
I am a Senior pursuing my second bachelors degree in psychology here at WSUV. I received my first bachelors degree in Recreation and Tourism from Central Washington University in 1996. I have returned to school after being away from academia for over 13 years. I have found WSUV to be the perfect fit for older "non-traditional" students who are pursuing their first degree or like me are making a life change. I plan to attend graduate school to obtain my PhD. in Psychology after graduation.
College Tip: "Get involved. There are so many opportunities to be a part of this community and it's a great way to make new friends!"
Elena
B.S. in Biology
My name is Elena Mahrt and I am a Senior at Washington State University Vancouver, majoring in Biology. I graduated from La Center High School in 2006 and started at WSUV in the Fall of 2006. These past three years have flown by incredibly fast for me, as I have always taken a full course load and enjoy being in the University Scholars Program. I am currently conducting research on Short-Tailed Fruit Bats for my University Honors Thesis Project. After graduating from WSUV with my Bachelor's Degree, I intend to receive my Doctorate in Chiropractic medicine in order to serve the local community.
College Tip: "Ask questions! Get to know your professors, they are your greatest assets at Washington State University Vancouver. Never assume that you are the only one with a question or that your question is insignificant."
Wes
B.A. in Education (Elementary Ed)
Hey everyone! My name is Wes Ballou and I will be a sophomore this year at WSU Vancouver majoring in Education. I was born in the not so far off deserts of Eastern Washington and moved here to Vancouver as a baby. After College searching for quite some time as a senior in High School, I found that the WSU Vancouver campus just a few minutes away from my house offered everything I needed to pursue my desired profession as an elementary school teacher, so this is where I am now! School has been good to me so far and left me with time to participate in activities out of class such as playing tennis, hiking, camping, watching movies, playing music and handfuls of other things. I hope to see ya around!
College Tip: "Take a deep breath and let the nerves calm, then take each day one day at a time making sure your schedule includes plenty of time for your studies."
Shelly
B.S. in Biology (Pre-Med Studies)
Hey everybody! My name's Shelly and this will be my third year at WSU Vancouver. I'm a Biology/Pre-med major, with a minor in Anthropology. Ultimately, I want to become a Pediatrician and someday work in developing countries. I really love volunteering, working with kids, traveling, and learning about different cultures/languages. At school I'm involved in Cougs for the Cures, CKI, University Scholars, and a few other clubs as well. In my free time (yes it does exist), you'll find me with family and friends- enjoying life, laughter, and food. :)
College Tip: "1) Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and join a club or two. You'll be amazed at the incredible people you meet and friends you make.
2) USE A PLANNER!!!
3) Read your textbooks, and THEN form a study group.
4) Don't pile on too many activities. Know your limits, because you might burn yourself out :("
Dave
B.A. in Anthropology
I was born in Eugene, Oregon, and lived up and down the west coast most of my life. I moved to Vancouver when I was 10, and graduated from Prairie High School in 2006. Since I did running start at Clark College, I was able to get my AA at the end of the 2007 school year. After graduating from Clark, I packed my bags and moved to Spain to be an English teacher for about a year. Throughout my travels, I realized that my true love in life was experiencing and learning about other cultures, so I decided to move back to the 'Couve to get my BA in Anthropology. I plan on going on to graduate school, and travelling for most of the rest of my life. I thrive on uncertainty, not knowing what tomorrow will bring, and spur-of-the-moment spontaneous decisions that are overly idealistic. I try to make as many unrealistic plans as possible, in order to try to make my life more than ordinary.
College Tip: "Take advantage of the small class sizes here at WSU-V. Really get to know your peers, as well as your teachers."
Sierra
B.A. in Mechanical Engineering (Mechatronics)
Hi! My name is Sierra, and I am a junior majoring in mechanical engineering and specializing in mechatronics. My greatest dream is to design and build my own cutting edge robots, but for now I just study hard and do well in school. I have also done an internship in the engineering department, taught at the preschool on campus, and have now become a student ambassador! When I am not doing schoolwork or another job, I spend time with my family and my fiancé. My other interests include traveling, white water rafting, kayaking, playing video games, working on cars to get them ready for the drag strip, and learning new things. I look forward to meeting you, remember to say hi!
College Tip: "Get to know your professors within the first couple weeks of school. Ask tons of questions! If you don't understand, there are other people who don't either. The professor will appreciate you speaking up so that he or she knows where the class is at and what needs to be covered in more detail. Lastly, make sure you come to every class. Your professor will notice your dedication and will be more likely to help you out if you get into a rough patch."
Kerry
B.A. in Digital Technology and Culture
I am a non-traditional student that has returned to college after a 10 year absence. In this time I have received life experience and am ready to accept and complete the challenge. I have met many new people coming to WSUV and have really enjoyed my time in the DTC program. Although I don't live near the university, during the school year you can see me on campus doing homework or being involved in extracurricular activities, including the Ambassador program, KOUG radio, and the Student Media Board. If you see me around, stop and say 'hello.' Unless there is a final I am about to take, I love to take the time and meet new people.
College Tip: "You only get out of it what you put into it. Work hard and it will reward you in the end."
Liska
B.A. in Business Administration (Accounting)
Hello! My name is Liska. I am a transfer student returning to college after taking some time off to work and raise a family. I am majoring in Accounting, and plan to graduate in 2010. I am so happy that I chose WSUV to complete my education! The campus is amazing as are all of the people here. If you see me around campus, and you have any questions, or just want to say "Hi.", don't be shy!
College Tip: "Relax! Everyone around you wants to see you succeed. If you need help, ask!"
Sahil
B.S. in Biology (Pre-Med Studies)
Hi, my name is Sahil Chopra, and I will be a sophomore this year at WSUV. I am majoring in biology and hope to attend medical school after graduation. I moved to America 10 years ago and have lived in Vancouver ever since, but I hope to move to a much sunnier place some day. I love traveling and seeing new places and learning about new cultures. I enjoy spending my free time working on my car, watching movies, and listening to music.
College Tip: "No matter how daunting college might seem, it really is doable once you start it. Just relax and never quit."
Shirlon
B.S. Psychology
I'm Shirlon Moncrief and a transfer student from Western Oregon University. I am majoring in Psychology, and later hoping to earn a Master's Degree in Library Science and Information. When I don't have my face stuck in a book studying, I enjoy watching Alfred Hitchcock films, and listening to music, especially Jimi Hendrix! I also love being outdoors. Hiking, biking, and running are among my favorite activities. Running is at the top of my list, because it is the most exhilarating. My ultimate goal is to run one marathon a year. See you around!
College Tip: "Find your ideal place to study. Make sure it's a place with little distraction, whether it's your room, or a corner in the library."
Mason
B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, B.S. in Electrical Engineering
Tag! I'm Mason and I was born in the beautiful PDX. I'm in my junior year pursuing a passion for engineering here at WSU Vancouver after transferring with my AA. When I am not focused on school work or Ambassador tasks, I enjoy photography; yoga; hiking; climbing; camping; all things Deutsch and other various activities - especially those which involve my two Labrador Retrievers. I am also crazy for High-Performance Driving Events (HPDEs) and other varieties of Automotive Insanity, you might even spot me at PIR on the weekends. If you are curious about my experiences in the Engineering department, volunteering on the Human Powered Vehicle Challenge or just want to chat about Jeremy Clarkson's latest rant, catch me while I'm hanging out in the Firstenburg Student Commons.
College Tip: "Find a solid, motivated group to work with - not only can you maximize your productivity, but it is always more enjoyable to share your frustrations from homework and projects with others. Get involved! My university experience has been so much more fulfilling since participating in the various events/activities here on our lovely campus!"
Yumi
B.A. in Social Sciences (Sociology)
Hi I'm Yumi! I am a senior here at WSUV and so excited for the upcoming year! I am majoring in Sociology and an excited and anxious to attend graduate school after I graduate. I grew up in Olympia and went to Black Hills High School. I just moved here last year so I know what it's like to be the new girl. My best advice is to get involved and do what you can to meet new people and enrich this great experience called college. I love spending time with my family and friends and hope to see you soon! GO COUGS!
College Tip: "Get involved in all the events that are available because you will meet great people and utilize all the resources at WSUV like the writing center, math lab, and career center."