Seven Armenian Students Are Studying in the Smittcamp Family Honors College at Fresno State

Sara Beberian
Staff Writer

The Smittcamp Family Honors College at Fresno State is recognized as one of the top programs of its kind in the western United States. Only a select 50 students, from a pool of 500 students, are annually accepted into the Smittcamp Family Honors College. High school seniors must meet one of the following two criteria in order to be eligible to apply: be in the upper 10% of their graduating class or have a minimum 3.8 GPA in grades 9 through 11

Currently, there are seven Armenian students enrolled in the Smittcamp Family Honors College. These are: Ani Abajian, Zareh Apkarian, Sara Beberian, Khori Cranford, Macyn Topoozian, Mary Topoozian, and Sevana Wassilian.

Following is some insight on how these students feel on being selected for the Program.

 

Ani Abajian

Why did you apply for Smittcamp at Fresno State? 

I wanted the experience of a smaller university while attending Fresno State. Through Smittcamp, I have more resources and personalized help than I would have had if I was not a part of the honors program. Smittcamp also offers a built-in family of students and faculty that is extremely helpful at a university as large as Fresno State.

Do you plan on being involved in Armenian Studies?

I plan on being involved in Armenian Studies during my time at Fresno State by taking both Armenian language and history courses. It is a privilege to be able to attend a university that offers courses that hit so close to home for many students on campus.

What are your future plans?

My future plans are to graduate with a degree in biochemistry, possibly pursue a master’s degree, and begin a career in biochemistry in either the medical or environmental field.

 

Zareh Apkarian

Why did you apply for Smittcamp at Fresno State? 

I applied to Smittcamp in order to further my education and to connect with people who want to do the same.

Do you plan on being involved in Armenian Studies? 

I absolutely plan on being involved in Armenian Studies, including joining ASO and taking Armenian classes.

What are your future goals/ plans?

In the future, I plan to serve my community in the medical field, where I plan to be a physician at a local hospital.

 

Sara Beberian

Why did you apply for Smittcamp at Fresno State? 

I am from Fresno and I have always wanted to stay close to my family and go to Fresno State! When I heard about the Smittcamp Honor Program, I wanted to apply, and it seemed like the perfect place for me. The Program allows me to stay close to my family in Fresno while still receiving an Honors education.

Do you plan on being involved in Armenian Studies?

The Armenian Studies Program is one of the main reasons I wanted to attend Fresno State! I am currently minoring in Armenian, a staff writer for Hye Sharzoom, and the public relations officer for ASO.

What are your future goals/ plans?

My future plans are to continue my education and see where it leads me! Something unique about me is that I practice judo and jujitsu and will probably pursue a career involving those sports.

 

Khori Cranford

Why did you apply for Smittcamp at Fresno State?

I applied because the opportunity is so amazing and it is truly a once-in-a-lifetime chance that’s enabled me to learn what I’m passionate about in a place not too far from home.

Do you plan on being involved in Armenian Studies? 

I’m currently am minoring in Armenian Studies, and I am taking the last class I need to complete the Minor!

What are your future goals/ plans?

My future goals include the possibility of law school. I’m hoping to one day work at an embassy or in some sector of Foreign Service- definitely a job where I can travel and help people!

 

Macyn Topoozian

Why did you apply for Smittcamp at Fresno State? 

I applied because I was very intrigued by how Smittcamp students get involved (as a group) in community service activities. This is very important for me to continue because I’ve been doing this sort of thing my whole life.

Do you plan on being involved in Armenian Studies? 

I plan on being involved in Armenian Studies throughout my college career! Currently, I am in Armenian Studies 10 which I am enjoying very much. Taking these courses will allow me to learn more about my culture and how Armenia became the country it is today. It is also a great way to make new friends.

What are your future plans?

My future plan is to become an Elementary School teacher. I have always been interested in teaching since I was very young because my mother is a teacher and I wish to follow in her footsteps.

 

Mary Topoozian 

Why did you apply for Smittcamp at Fresno State? 

The Smittcamp Honors Program has given me a unique educational experience and challenge. I knew that I would be, if accepted, meeting with high-achieving students. This definitely helps to motivate me.

Do you plan on being involved in Armenian Studies? 

Another reason why I wanted to attend Fresno State was because of the very successful Armenian Studies Program. It’s very important that I learn about my roots, history, culture, and the classes offered are very informative giving the students an abundant amount of knowledge. Learning about my culture and heritage is very important to me.

How are you involved in your Armenian community in general? 

My involvement in the Armenian community revolves around my church, St. Paul Armenian Church. I have volunteered at the California Armenian Home which is very rewarding. My family and I raised money by fundraising and purchased sporting clothes and educational supplies and took them to Armenia. I personally delivered these items to the children in the small village of Darbnik in Armenia. I will never forget the looks on their faces when they saw strangers giving them gifts.

What are your future goals?

My goal is to graduate and the attend Dental School. I want to follow in my dad’s footsteps. Staying active and involved in the Armenian community is very high on my list too.

 

Sevana Wassilian

Why did you apply for Smittcamp at Fresno State? 

Since my freshman year of high school, I hoped to be accepted into such a prestigious honors college as Smittcamp. It is really a one-of-a-kind opportunity; the support and guidance provided by the honors program guarantee the success of its student. I am extremely grateful to be a part of such an institution that encourages its students to explore their potential and challenge themselves.

How are you involved in your Armenian community in general? 

I am a proud member of Homenetmen Fresno Sassoon and the Holy Trinity Apostolic Church and am always ready to help whenever the community needs, whether that involves packing clothing to send to Armenia, getting ready for the community’s annual medical mission, or protesting at times when Armenia is in need.

What are your future plans?

After completing my under-graduate education, I hope to attend medical school and later specialize in dermatology. Regardless of where I continue my education, I hope to always be involved within the Armenian community, as no matter where we are, Armenians always seem to find each other.