The California State University, Northridge class of 2024 endured COVID-19, online classes and in-person transitions. As the students near graduation, they offered a few words of reflection on their journey and what they hope to achieve next. 

Graduating from college is a huge life achievement, and as students end this chapter of their life, they keep their eyes set on the future. During this time, you are given the first taste of freedom and glimpse of adulthood. It is important to take a moment and reflect on your journey and where you came from. Living away from home, pursuing a degree, and keeping a social life makes this period of time a spectrum of emotions. College is difficult. One’s effort and dedication is a direct reflection of who they are, and it is important to highlight students who are making a difference. The following six students dedicated the last four years to pursue their passion, each with their own unique voice and perspective on college and life. 

Era Ortiz, an English major with an emphasis in creative writing, started her CSUN journey as a freshman on Zoom then transitioned to in-person classes. “Higher education is only bearable when you have others to bear it with,” said Ortiz. “The biggest lesson I learned is that everyone moves at their own pace. It doesn’t make them better or lesser than you, or vice versa. Once I started looking around, my experience became more exciting. I’m looking forward to finishing my book, and seeing what life has in store after graduation!”

Ophelie Le Houx, a major in recreation, tourism and hospitality with a minor in management, came to CSUN after transferring from Santa Monica College. “At CSUN, I learned the importance of cultivating healthy professional relationships,” said Le Houx. “I’m looking forward to what the future has in store for me. I know life is filled with new experiences and encounters which I’m excited for. As an international student, there’s uncertainty with how I’m going to be able to stay in the U.S., so I can’t wait to see what I accomplish in the coming years and if I stay.”

Martin Avina, a film production major with an emphasis in producing and a minor in business law, transferred from Glendale Community College for the film program. “I knew I wanted to attend a top-tier cinema school, and I am grateful to have dedicated professors here at CSUN,” said Avina. “I’ve learned the value of preparation while also gaining real-world experiences that I will never forget in both fields of study. I’m excited and pleased to apply what I have learned at CSUN in the future, and I am looking forward to seeing where the next chapter of my life takes me.”

Carly Pellot is a senior journalism major with an emphasis in public relations. She transferred from Glendale Community College, where she discovered her passion for writing. “I couldn’t have gotten through college without a solid to-do list and good time management,” said Pellot.  The biggest lesson she learned is to never be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Pellot looks forward to starting her career in journalism and hopes to move to the East Coast.

Ravi Neil is a CTVA television production major. Since working online during COVID-19, he focused on honing his craft of filmmaking, which he dreams of pursuing. When lectures returned to classrooms, Ravi made the films he saw in his head. “I learned that the connections you make in college are the most important aspect of the experience,” said Ravi. “I am looking forward to creating the films I want to see on the big screen with my friends.”

Ian McKay, a CTVA screenwriting major, came to CSUN at the start of the pandemic and worked on honing his craft through his studies. “In the day-to-day of routines I tend to forget what a gift it is to get to go to college!” said McKay. “When life gets tough, I remind myself that younger me dreamed of being here, going to a good school and putting in hard work to reach a career I’m happy in. With college ending, I’m excited to see where the winds will blow me both professionally and geographically!”