Memories from Humboldt
In 2023, Cal Poly Humboldt embarked on a mission to uncover the stories of its 82,000 alumni. The goal was to capture shared memories and moments at Humboldt. Here are some of their stories.
1960s
Howard Covington (1963, B.A.), (1965, M.A.)
Howard Covington, four-year wrestler; alumni class of 1963, BA and 1965, MA. Submitted.
I was from a family with unlimited funds, so I had my choice of going to Chico State or Humboldt State. I chose Humboldt because of the cooler climate and their good sports program. My favorite sports were football and wrestling. My wrestling coach was a man by the name of Ralph Hassman. He went out of his way to help me when my grandfather passed away, driving me to Weaverville. He was an example of the strong support system that I had from faculty and staff. I also had the opportunity to visit San Quentin Prison three times as an athlete. It left an impression on me at 17 or 18 years old. When I finally earned my degree in 1963, it was an accomplishment because I was the first of my family to do so. I was inspired by the master's degree candidates and their robes and decided to put in two more years to earn my own. My education and experiences at Humboldt have helped me with life after graduation. I was able to make a positive impact in someone else's life, as I received a letter from a student I taught algebra to who got a job with the city of Santa Maria. Being an alum of Humboldt means a lot to me. It was a family-oriented atmosphere, with moments like Professor Griffith inviting us to his home to watch boxing matches. I'm grateful for the education and experiences I had there and the positive impact it has had on my life.
John A. Kennedy (1963)
I was always drawn to the outdoors and the beauty of nature, so when I graduated from high school, I knew I wanted to pursue a degree in Forest Management. I started my college career at Fresno State, but I wanted to be closer to the mountains, so I transferred up to Humboldt State University. It was a long drive from Redding, but I was determined to make it work. When I arrived, I was lucky enough to be one of the first students to live in the new dorm, Redwood Hall. I was so excited to be there and surrounded by the redwoods. The winters were a bit gloomy, but I didn't mind it. I was living my dream. I was able to finish my degree in four years, which was a feat for many of the other students who had transferred from Southern California. I was able to make the most of my time there, taking classes in forestry and general education and eventually moving off campus with six of my friends. My time at Humboldt was so special. I was able to do the fieldwork I had always dreamed of, climbing over wet logs and ferns and being surrounded by the beauty of the redwoods. I was so lucky to have been able to follow my dream and get my bachelor's degree. After graduating, I was hired by the U.S. Forest Service and eventually ended up in Truckee, California, just 15 miles from Lake Tahoe. My wife and I raised our family there, and it's been the perfect place for us. The town has changed so much since we arrived, but I'm so grateful to have been able to stay there and enjoy the beauty of nature. I'm so thankful for my time at Humboldt State University and the opportunities it gave me. It set me up for a lifetime of success, and I'm so glad I followed my dream.
1970s
Susan Shimmin-Okey (1971)
After 31 years of teaching, I now interpret in the Old Coloma Schoolhouse at MGDSHP. Submitted.
I had the opportunity to attend a month-long environmental class at Humboldt State University. I had heard about the class through my work at Mary Kay Pendleton Elementary School at Camp Pendleton, California. I drove up to Humboldt State all by myself and registered for the class. We stayed in a series of trailers known as the Hippo Pit. Kip Roberti was the instructor and Houston was the ornithologist. We learned about how to take care of the land, plant gardens, eat healthily, sort out our trash, and recycle. I learned that everyone else was doing certain things that I no longer felt necessary. I felt that the children in my classroom needed to understand that there was more to the environment than just being plowed and built on. I took the kids out at lunchtime to look at flowers and talk about why it was important not to pick them. We talked a lot about animals and plants. I also learned that it takes about 50 years for people to bite on a new method. We started recycling, being concerned about air quality, and other environmental issues. I became a Sierra Club member and joined Audubon. I made bird feeders for the kids out of milk cartons and sent them off with a bag of bird feed for Father's Day. The experience helped me grow and change as a person. I no longer felt the need to do certain things and I was able to present environmental information to young children. I hope that they were able to use this later on in their lives. I also taught geography in my classroom and incorporated cultural activities and the weather. I'm so glad that I was able to go to Humboldt State and have that experience.
Leonard Crawford (1973)
Submitted.
I had a great legacy to live up to when I decided to attend Cal Poly Humboldt. My parents had graduated from there in 1950, so I was eager to follow in their footsteps. I chose to major in Psychology and was lucky enough to have some amazing professors who were willing to sit down and talk with me one-on-one. They gave me the confidence and information I needed to go out into the world after college. I was also able to get involved in some great organizations while I was there. I was part of the Third World Coalition, an organization of students of color. We worked together to push forward the Ethnic Studies department, petitioning the campus to have Native American Studies as the first part of that ethnic studies group. We also started the Foundation of Ethnic Studies with the Native Americans. I made some great friends while I was at Cal Poly, like Richard Hicks, who went on to play for the Detroit Lions for 15 years. We keep in touch on Facebook. One of my fondest memories from my time at Cal Poly was when I got to pick up Dick Gregory at the airport and make sure he was at the event on time. It was funny because there were only two Black people in the whole airport—me and Dick Gregory—and an FBI agent was following him. We ended up inviting the agent to eat with us. That was in 1973, and it's a memory that still makes me smile.
Yong Kim (1973)
I remember the feeling of walking onto the campus of Cal Poly Humboldt for the first time. It was a new experience, much like when I joined the military. I had already chosen my major, Forestry, and I was excited to get started. The weather was something I remember most from my time there. It was very windy in September. I was living at 930 D Street, and I remember the elderly gentleman who owned the premises. I was able to take advantage of my education in forestry in my career. I was able to go to Sequoia National Park and do some survey work in the redwood forest. It was a different experience from the redwood forest. I am grateful for the time I spent at Cal Poly Humboldt. I was able to listen to a music professor, whose name I can't remember, but he was an interesting instructor. I was also able to take advantage of my military experience and the funds it provided me to attend Humboldt without taking out any student loans. My time at Cal Poly Humboldt was an invaluable experience that I will never forget.
Lawrence A. Beck (1977)
Submitted.
I was a student at UC Riverside studying Biology, but I fell in love with field Biology and transferred to Humboldt for the Natural Resource Planning & Interpretation program. I was drawn to the beautiful location and the deeper understanding of the natural world that I gained there. I found an internship as part of my curriculum that led me to work for the National Park Service, which turned into seasonal work for several years. I continued my education and got a master's degree and a Ph.D., and eventually taught at San Diego State University. One faculty member who had a huge influence on me was Alan Stein. He taught a course on technical writing and told us to write so that people could understand us. This has influenced my writing to this day, and I've written more than 100 articles and several books. My most successful book is The Gifts of Interpretation: 15 Guiding Principles for Interpreting Nature and Culture. It was used for certification purposes and translated into Chinese and Russian. Recently, I was awarded the President's Award from the National Association for Interpretation for my work writing a column called Justice for All. It's about how interpretive sites tell the stories of previously marginalized and historically disenfranchised communities. I've been able to travel to places like Peru, Baja, New Zealand, and Scotland. I've had the opportunity to volunteer and help kids in Peru, see the mating grounds of the gray whale in Baja, and climb some of the peaks in Scotland. I loved my time at Humboldt and have fond memories of the climate, the redwoods, and the adventures I had. I'm looking forward to retiring and spending more time in the redwoods and revisiting the places I called home.
Frederick Tempas (1978)
Submitted.
I remember it like it was yesterday. I had just graduated high school and was looking for the perfect college. I wanted to get away from the city, so I chose Cal Poly Humboldt. It was the perfect fit. I had some amazing professors, but one, in particular, stood out. His name was Val Phillips. He saw potential in me and took me under his wing. He kept me on the right path, and I am forever grateful. After I graduated, I took a year off and then started looking for a job. I was trained as a music teacher and eventually found a job in Arcata. I worked in the same school district for 31 years until I retired. Before I retired, I started working at Humboldt as a part-time lecturer in music. I can do a lot of things, but my number one instrument is the tuba. I have been playing it since high school, and I love it. I am so thankful for the opportunity to share my story. It is a privilege to be part of this oral history project.
1980s
Eric Zirbel (1982)
Eric Zirbel, Gary Dye, and Ellen Campbell. Arcata, October 1980. Submitted.
I was always intrigued by Cal Poly Humboldt and the idea of going away from home but still being in California. I had heard from friends who were a year or two ahead of me in high school that it was a great place to go, so I decided to give it a try. I had been attending El Camino Community College but wasn't sure what I wanted to major in. Humboldt seemed to have a good variety of options, including a business degree, which is what I ended up pursuing. The small class sizes were a major factor in my decision to go to Humboldt. I knew that I would be able to get to know my professors and really get the most out of my education. I had two professors who really made an impression on me, Jan Derksen and Lee Henderson. Jan was the sky, and Lee the earth. Besides academics, I got involved in outdoor activities and running. I also explored the local music scene and the arts and culture productions. I even got an emphasis in art history, which was a great part of my experience. My time at Cal Poly Humboldt had a huge impact on my life after graduation. I was prepared to join the workforce and contribute in ways that my experiences at Humboldt had helped form. I ended up having a long career at PG&E, something I never thought would be a lifetime. Bloom where you are planted.
Lynn Ishii (1985)
Me and one of my rescued pups, Kekia'ikiko'okekipuka, Kiko for short, hanging in the backyard. Submitted.
I went to Cal Poly Humboldt because it was a small college that provided a degree in industrial arts. When I was first looking at colleges, the director of the Industrial Arts department, Dennis Potter, sent me a personal letter inviting me to come up. He showed me around the school and the department, and he was incredible. It was exactly what I was looking for, and it's why I attended. I came from a much larger school, and it was amazing to be in such a small environment. I loved my classes. We had many awesome field trips to see different industrial productions. We looked at everything from carpentry to engines to military work. I went on to become a maintenance officer in the military, and my education helped me all the way through. I was a member of the Industrial Arts Club, which was a great diversion from my classes. Don Miller, my metal technology instructor, was a great and talented mentor. He pushed us to our limits to become better. I worked for him as a lab technician, and I helped test miniature designs to generate electricity.
Linda Collister (1988)
Linda graduated from the HSU Oceanography program. Submitted.
I was looking for a degree in Oceanography when I transferred from Eastern Oregon State College to Humboldt State University. I was lucky to have amazing instructors like Jeff Borgeld and John Pequegnat. I was part of the Ocean Monitoring Project, which was hired by the Surf Riders Association to monitor the pulp mill effluent off the Samoa spit. We rode ATVs and collected samples from the shore and from boats. This experience even led to a job in the North Sea with one of the companies. My greatest takeaway from Humboldt was networking with all the people I met and the experiences I had. I received so much hands-on experience with ocean sampling and equipment. The professors were extremely well qualified. I was also able to learn professional report writing and research. I have had a full career in the fire service. Now, as a faculty instructor at Santa Rosa Junior College Fire Technology Program, I try to give back to students the same way my instructors at HSU gave to me.
1990s
Jon Pede (1990)
Jon and Tom Schuster. Submitted.
I had never ventured further than a little bit outside of Southern California, so when I decided to try something new and go to Cal Poly Humboldt in Northern California, I was excited. It was a small school, and the forest was different from the big city of Los Angeles. It was a bit of a culture shock, but I loved it. I joined the Marching Lumberjacks and eventually became the ax major, a student leader for a year and a half. It was great, I got to travel all over the state and make some really close friends. One of the people I met in Marching Lumberjacks became my best friend, and we are still the best of friends today, even though we don't live near each other. One professor at Humboldt, Eugene Novotney, really stood out to me. He had a love of creativity and art, and music, and I was privileged to know him. The day I earned my degree was a beautiful sunny spring day, and the president of the university, Alistair McCrone, called me out as I walked across the stage. He said, "Congratulations, Mr. Bandmaster." It was a humbling moment. My time at Cal Poly Humboldt changed me into who I am today. It pushed me to see the world in a way that I hadn't before and opened my eyes to a lot of things. I'm able to use some of that as an educator and leader of a school. It was an experience I will never forget.
Christopher Gould (1993)
Well-earned second-place finish with Christopher's college friends and teammates. Submitted.
I was excited when I first stepped onto the campus of Cal Poly Humboldt. Not only was it a legacy school for my dad and stepdad, but the environment was beautiful. Nature surrounded the small campus, and I knew I was in the right place. When I first arrived, I had no idea what I wanted to study. I started off as a history major, but eventually ended up with a Recreation Administration major. I got involved in the rowing club early on, and that was a big part of my college experience. The coaches were a great support system, and the club was a seven-day-a-week commitment. The school also put on a weekend event called The Lumberjack Days. We put up facades to make it look like an old lumberjack town with bars and games. It was a four-day party, and the rowing program and marching band had the biggest booths. We sold food and beer, and it was a great time. My time at Humboldt was a great learning experience. I became more confident in who I am and what I wanted to do in life. I also learned how to be an independent person. I also had a lot of fun memories, like the Lumberjack Days and going to the beach. Unfortunately, I haven't been back in 30 years, but I'm hoping to make it to a reunion soon.
Sycora Wilson (1993)
Submitted.
I grew up in Southern California and wanted to go to school out of state. However, my parents wouldn't allow me to do that, so I took a map of California and chose the college furthest from home. I'm a first-generation college student and the oldest in the family. Cal Poly Humboldt was wonderful for me; everybody was so excited when I graduated. My mom even brought some people I had grown up with all the way to Northern California to watch my graduation ceremony. When I first started, I was a math major—I wanted to be a high school math teacher. I took many math classes: precalculus, calculus I, calculus II, and calculus III. I was sitting in a differential equations class when I thought, 'I don't want to do this anymore.' I changed my major because, a few semesters before that, I had been trained to be an orientation leader, and I really fell in love with the Humboldt Orientation Program. I got connected with the Academic Information and Referral Center and other opportunities on campus and realized that was where my passion lay. I changed my major to social sciences, and I currently work at a university in student affairs. I had such a wonderful time at Humboldt. I've taught a freshman seminar class for the last 16 years—every year, I get a new group of students and relive my wonderful undergraduate experience. I was grateful for the whole experience. I loved being at the university. The faculty and staff I met saw something in me that I didn't even know existed—they gave me opportunities. I remember taking the first exam in the orientation training class as I was training to be an orientation leader, and I bombed it. The person who was training us called me into his office. He said, "I know you can do better. I can see it in your eyes. I want you to retake this." I retook it, and I aced it. He gave me that opportunity, that chance. He didn't say, "You failed;" he said, "Do it again." That made all the difference.
Alison Kusumoto (1994)
I grew up in Los Angeles. I heard about Cal Poly Humboldt from a friend whose brother went there. Since it's the farthest school from LA that was still in California, I knew I had to go. It was a great decision. The school was small enough that lectures weren't overcrowded, and it was more personal. I was a Physical Education major, and I worked in the training room, which was a lot of fun. I got to take care of the athletes in different sports and give the football players a hard time when they had to ice things down. I also played basketball and volleyball while I was there. Being a student-athlete was a great experience. I met a lot of great people and had a lot of fun. Going away and living on my own taught me to take care of myself and appreciate the things I had taken for granted at home. I was also lucky enough to work with ProfessorJohn Butler in his lab. He was a great mentor, and I'm thankful I got to meet him. My greatest takeaway from my time at Cal Poly Humboldt was the community. It was so nice to be able to walk down the street and say hello to anyone. It was a stark contrast to the reaction I'd get back in LA. I'm so grateful for my time at Cal Poly Humboldt and all the memories I made there.
Jonathan Oleyar (1994)
Enjoying the North Cascade Mountains in Washington State. Submitted.
I had always wanted to be a forest ranger, so when I heard about Humboldt State University's renowned Wildlife and Forestry programs, I knew I had to visit. When I arrived, I fell in love with the redwoods and the quaint campus. Everyone was so friendly, and I knew this was the place for me. Over the years, the campus has grown, and even the Wildlife Building has been retrofitted. I was fortunate to have some outstanding instructors, especially Professor Botzler, who taught Wildlife Diseases and Environmental Ethics. There was also Terry Roleoffs, who taught Introduction to Fisheries Management, and Professor Kitchen, who taught Animal Behavior. I even had a professor of entomology who had a collection of hissing cockroaches. These courses and instructors helped me define who I wanted to be and how I wanted to work. I received a minor in environmental ethics and signed a contract to uphold my ethics. I knew I wouldn't make a lot of money as a biologist, but I wanted to make a difference and contribute. I still do the same job 25 years later, and I love it. The greatest takeaway from my time at Cal Poly Humboldt was the friendships I made and the knowledge I gained. I still keep in touch with some of my core group of friends from college, and I will never forget my days there. The learning, the friendships, and the forest were all so intimate and special. I will always take those memories with me.
Esther Jones (1996)
1994 San Diego Crew Classic Women's 8. Submitted.
I chose Humboldt State University because it was small, and I liked the idea of getting to know the community. Living in a small town was also a plus, and it was still in California, far enough away from my family that I could have some independence. My time at Humboldt was transformative. I joined the women's rowing team, and we went from a club to an intercollegiate sport. I made some of the best friends I've ever had, and I'm still close with them. We practiced every day on Humboldt Bay. I enjoyed my English and history classes, and Professor Jacob Barky in the Biology department was a great teacher. My time at Humboldt helped me grow into the person I am today. I had independence, but also felt supported. I'm grateful for the natural environment around the campus and all the great destinations in and around the school. I have fond memories of Mad River Beach, Trinity, and Ferndale, as well as Lumberjack Days and all the regattas we traveled to as part of the crew team. It was a really fun time.
Sara Marshall (1998)
Submitted.
Growing up, I was always fascinated by the outdoors and the natural world. When it came time to choose a major, I knew I wanted to pursue something related to natural resources. I decided to attend Humboldt State to pursue a degree in natural resources interpretation. My aspirations were to work for California State Parks. When I first saw the campus, I was in awe of its beauty. It was situated in the middle of the redwoods, with the ocean and ski mountains so close. It was the perfect location for me to pursue my dreams. I was immersed in a variety of activities and experiences that made my time there memorable. I worked for the Arcata Police Department, did volunteer work in the interpretive field, and went on field trips to the Arcata Marsh and state parks. The faculty and staff at Humboldt State were very influential in my career. Steve R. Martin, Carolyn Widner Ward, and David Kitchen were all mentors to me. They helped me gain the skills and knowledge I needed to pursue my career. After graduating, I started working for state parks and eventually got hired permanently. I worked in the field at various state parks for nine years. I've also been at the Mott Training Center for the last 17 years, training employees in interpretive techniques and facilitating trainings in natural cultural resources, partnerships, and interpretation. I've also been active in the National Association for Interpretation and won an award for meritorious service. I'm grateful for the experiences I had at Humboldt State and the people I met. It was a great college for the fields of resources, forestry, wildlife, and teaching credentials. It was also a great place to become friends with people from different disciplines. I was in the best shape of my life, thanks to all the stairs!
Matthew Bradley Simmons (1999)
Suzi and I were married for 25 years. She is the heart of my story. Submitted.
I came to Humboldt State University in 1990 to play basketball. I was a social science major and my goal was to become a teacher, like my parents. My basketball coach, Tom Wood, was a big influence and mentor to me. It was a difficult journey, but I eventually graduated in 1999. While I was there, I met my future wife, Suzanne Farmer. She had already graduated in 1990, but we met at the school and got married in 1996. We had two daughters. One is currently attending Cal Poly Humboldt and studying early childhood education and the other just graduated high school. After graduating, I got a job as a bankruptcy asset manager, which paid better than teaching. I stayed in that field for 12 years and then switched to Caltrans in the right-of-way department, which has been my favorite job. Cal Poly Humboldt is a special school in the California system. I feel like I got more out of the smaller classrooms and the relationships between students and professors. I still keep in touch with some of my teammates, and I follow the basketball team, although I don't usually attend the games in person. I'm proud to be an alum of Cal Poly Humboldt, and I'm glad I came back and finished my degree.
2000s
Thomas Morgan (2000)
Submitted.
I had always been drawn to Humboldt State University. The curriculum was built around an independent, environmentally focused education program. It was a way to get away from home but still be in a place with a lot of beauty. I chose a multidisciplinary study of Economics, Computer Science, and Business. The professors, such as Eric Escher, taught me that if I put in the effort, I could be successful and get more out of it. I also enjoyed the diversity of the general education courses. I learned more about life, society, and trades that I wouldn't have gotten in a normal college environment. After graduating, I started my own business manufacturing exotic golf bags with Matt, another graduate of Humboldt. I also worked in the event business, with jobs at the 2002 Winter Olympics, the Super Bowl, and USGA Golf, and I even spent a year living in Australia while working at the 2006 Commonwealth Games. When I returned, I got a project management certificate and a secured contract position in IT outsourcing and managed services with AT&T. After being hired full-time, I advanced to an engineering lead and then took over as the director of a $30 million-a-year independent outsourcing business. In late 2019, I decided to take an early retirement package with the intent to join a tech startup, which never transpired due to the global pandemic. With the reset offered by COVID-19, I took the opportunity to pursue my life's passion as a profession and started fishing for a living. I now spend 120 days a year at sea between California, Baja, and Los Cabos. The experiences I've had have taught me that my happiness is the most important thing in life and that taking risks and making sacrifices is what makes for a great life story. My experience at Humboldt shaped me as a person by providing me with depth and breadth of learning while seeding my spirit of adventure. For that, I am forever grateful.
Kevin Akio Stewart (2001)
Love Humboldt and the Trinities! NorCal magic! Submitted.
I graduated from high school in Kansas and began university at the University of Kansas (KU). After a year and a half at KU, I knew it was time for me to leave that area and to find a place and community that resonated with me. I was looking for a new school, and a friend of mine in California asked what I was interested in. I told her I wanted to continue studying biology and to get involved in social and environmental advocacy. She immediately suggested Humboldt State University (HSU). We visited Humboldt together, and when I saw redwoods for the first time, I knew HSU was the place for me. I was blown away by the beauty and magic of Humboldt County. That and the size of the school made HSU a perfect fit. At Humboldt, I was able to learn so much more than just biology. I was able to learn about feminism, intersections of oppression, and how to unlock my compassion and heart space to understand other people. I made lifelong friends at the Women's Center, and I credit them with teaching me how to listen, love, and value people's stories. Humboldt changed my life. I am forever indebted to the school, the professors, and the people I met there. I am grateful for the formal education I received in biology and music and for the professors and all who advocated for me. I am grateful and humbled for the connections and friendships I made and still have there, and the beautiful environment that opened me in ways I never thought possible. My friends and I are rediscovered soulmates, connected through our magical time of opening and learning there. My advice to younger generations is to take advantage of technology and all the opportunities for connection it provides. Find your soulmates. They are out there. Find them by learning to value people's stories, by listening and being curious to understand them. Learn to love yourself so that you have space to reflect your love to others. Humboldt is a magical place that can open your heart and mind in ways you never imagined.
Phouva Vorapanya (2003)
I came to the United States empty-handed with no word of English. I was a refugee from Laos, and when I was 16, I was put straight into ninth grade in San Diego. I wanted to join the services, but I failed the test because of my English. I applied for the California Conservation Corps and got stationed in Del Norte County by the Klamath River. I also worked for a California State Park in San Diego and wanted to go back to Laos someday to help preserve the forests. My uncle suggested I apply to Humboldt State University for forestry, so I did. I didn't get accepted right away because my test scores weren't high enough, so I had to go to College of the Redwoods for one semester and then was put on probation. I worked hard and got accepted to Humboldt. I had to take science classes like biology and soil, but my English background made it hard. I went to the Learning Skills Center next to the Library for help. I got Fs in almost every class the first time and barely passed the second time. I double majored in Forestry and Political Science, but didn't finish Political Science due to finances. It took me almost seven years to get my bachelor's degree. The day I finally got my bachelor's was the happiest and saddest day of my life. I was so excited to have accomplished something so great, but I wished I had family members there to stand next to me. My friends and colleagues supported me, and I was so proud to walk across the football field with so many people cheering. Now I work for the Forest Service and have been promoted to captain. I'm so proud of all I have accomplished and grateful for the help I received along the way.
Randi Mead (2004)
Randi's daughter, Tatiana, walked across the stage with her when she received her undergrad diploma. Submitted.
I moved to Humboldt in December of 1998 with my two-year-old daughter so that she could be closer to her dad, who went to Humboldt State. I was only 20 years old and knew I wanted to go on with my education so that I could provide for her. I didn't want to rely on the state to survive. I went into teaching because I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. One of my favorite classes was a creative writing class. What was great about this class was the professor allowed us to write without any pressure. She said there was no wrong way to write, and that took the pressure off of making sure everything I was doing was written properly. I formed a pretty good bond with my college friends, and they became like family to me and my daughter, which was really important. Some of us went through the Credential Program together, and one of them even helped me get my first job after graduation. My advice to students, especially those studying education, is to volunteer as much as you can in the classroom. It's really important to take it on yourself to try to get a job at a school and work with kids in some type of setting. When I graduated and received my degree, I had my daughter walk across the stage with me to get my diploma. It was a magical experience for her and a huge accomplishment for me. I am so grateful for the experience and all of the understanding my professors had while I was at Humboldt.
Jolie Nicole Scott (2005)
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My family and I at Mount Arab summit, in the northern Adirondack Mountain Range, New York. Submitted.
I was always drawn to the redwoods and the coast of California, so when it came time to choose a college, Cal Poly Humboldt was an easy choice. I didn't know anyone else who was going there, so I felt like I was starting fresh. During my freshman year, I lived in the Sunset Dorms, and my future husband, Trevor Scott, lived three doors down. We were just friends at first, but we bonded. I remember watching the news coverage of 9/11 in his room, which was one of the few with a TV. I stayed at Cal Poly Humboldt and joined the rowing team. We won nationals in 2004, and I graduated the year after. Trevor and I reconnected over MySpace while I was in London, and we started a long-distance relationship. We eventually got married and now live in Maryland with our two kids. Everything in my life is because of meeting Trevor at Humboldt State. He's graduating from medical school next month and will be doing aerospace medicine in the military. I'm so thankful for the opportunity to have attended Cal Poly Humboldt and met my husband. It's been an incredible journey, and I'm excited to see what the future holds.
Stina Sieg (2005)
Here I am in 2015, in the middle of a 210-mile hike on the Arizona Trail. Submitted.
I chose Humboldt State University over all of my other options because it felt the coziest and most comforting. I already had a connection with the area because my mom had gone there, and I was drawn to the small-town feel of Arcata and Eureka. I have so many fond memories of my time there. I remember walking to the movie theater late at night to see Hedwig and the Angry Inch and eating gargantuan calzones at Arcata Pizza and Deli. I miss running through the town at dusk and seeing all the homes lit up like an Edward Hopper painting. It felt safe, both physically and emotionally. Even though I had no idea what I wanted to be when I "grew up," Humboldt helped prepare me for my career in journalism. Being in a town that was so offbeat, I met people from all walks of life, and it was an appreciation for the weird and non-standard I found there that I now bring to my work. At my graduation ceremony, my dad said it was like watching a parade of misfits who had somehow all found their way to Humboldt. Being surrounded by that joyful misfit energy is something I still hold dear, especially when my life feels hectic or, heaven forbid, too normal. My advice to younger students is to take advantage of the opportunities around them. There are so many more distractions now than when I was in college, and it can be easy to retreat into yourself. Get out into the world and have experiences—go on hikes and take road trips. Explore who you are. Humboldt is a place to explore, and I hope students today take in all the weird and wonderful energy that swirls through that place.
Forest Stearns (2005)
Submitted.
I arrived at Cal Poly Humboldt in my twenties, and I was ready to make an impact. I was drawn to the lush, natural environment and the small-town feel of the area. I quickly made friends with like-minded individuals, and together we created a strong community. We spent time painting in nature and doing street art in the city. We created endless guerrilla artwork and put it everywhere. Professor Maral Attallah was by far the most memorable of the educators in my Humboldt experience. Her intellect and humor couldn't be beaten. Academically, I was particularly influenced by Professor James Moore, who taught classical drawing, and Professor Mimi LaPlant. In my last semester, I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad in Greece with Professor Demetri Mitsanas and his daughter, Professor Eugenia Mitsanas, who focused on Greece. That experience was life-changing. My time at Humboldt State taught me to be more conceptual than technically proficient. I was pushed to be a fearless and radically prolific artist. Within this reliable community, I was able to learn quickly, develop my skills, and I also gained the confidence to pursue my creative dreams. I left Humboldt full of creative permission. Over 100 months of art exhibitions made me ready for an M.F.A. program in Illustration. In 2019, I was recognized as an HSU Distinguished Alumni for my contribution to the art world at DRAWEVERYWHERE STUDIOS. I've been the art director of the largest online art community, DeviantArt, I created the largest art show in space as a principal artist at Planet, and I now collaborate with Google Quantum to build out campuses and beautify quantum computers. I'm proud to be an alumnus of Cal Poly Humboldt.
Felipe Enriquez, Jr. (2008)
I chose Humboldt State University because of the small class sizes and the opportunity to have more time with the professors. I was drawn to the beautiful location, nestled in the hills, and the feeling of being part of a family. I was on a mission to complete my degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in management in three semesters, taking 21 credits a semester. Sherry Deron became my mentor. She pushed me and challenged me, but most importantly, she believed in me. She could read me like a book and knew what I was capable of. She held me accountable, and I'm thankful for her guidance. I'm now the safety officer of the hospital director and oversee 70 employees. I'm blessed and thankful for the opportunity Humboldt gave me to foster my growth. They allowed me to be a free thinker and dive deep into who I am. My advice to anyone starting their college career is to never stop believing in yourself. Have a goal and make baby steps or leaps and bounds towards it. Don't listen to the naysayers, and be your own supporter.
Vaughn Pani (2008)
First year in the dorms, fall 2003. Submitted.
I wanted to pursue a natural sciences major, so when I heard about Cal Poly Humboldt, it was worth driving out for the campus tour. The in-state tuition, the beach, the redwoods, and the small-town atmosphere sold me. I still think the coffee in Arcata is the best I've ever had. I grew up in Ventura County, and I was looking for a change of pace from the Navy. Education was important in my family, and I became a third-generation college graduate. I originally wanted to pursue Wildlife Biology, but after taking some classes, I found Fisheries more interesting and lucrative. My time at Cal Poly Humboldt was a learning experience. I had to figure out where I wanted to go in my career, if I wanted to stay in the county, and how to manage my money. I was lucky to have a professor, Andrew Kinzinger, who had a passion for the science of fish. His enthusiasm for the subject confirmed my change in major. I didn't have to do a senior project or internship, which was a relief. I grew up a lot as a person during my time there. It was a challenge learning how to manage stress with the workload and my close relationships. I truly was exhausted at the end of four years, but it all worked out in the end. I found out what I wanted to do with my life, and I was able to find a career within two months of graduating. I first worked as an LE ranger at Olympic National Park and quickly went to the academy with California State Parks in Pacific Grove. Columbia SHP, Grand Canyon NP, and the Statue of Liberty have shaped who I am since then. I've made a lot of good friends along the way from those jobs, but I still hang out with Andrew Tappy and John Kennedy from my time at Humboldt.
Sherniece Spiller (2009)
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I applied to 23 California State Universities in high school and was accepted into 18. I'm a city kid; I was born in Houston, Texas, but raised in Los Angeles, California, so to come to that area is different and new. My heart was set on San Francisco State University, but everything changed when I went to Spring Preview. That's when I saw the campus, met staff, and saw the support that was given to children of color, because I had never been so far away from my mom on my own. My mom was a single mom with four children, and I was the eldest. Humboldt also gave me a really good financial aid package. I didn't want my education to burden my mom, who still had three other children to raise. I was in the Educational Opportunity Program, and my advisor, Kevin, helped me a lot. When classes got tough, he told me to keep going. At Humboldt, I had the college experience of being away from home on my own without being too far away from home. I was also able to find myself and blossom into a young adult and grow. By going to Humboldt, I had to stand on my own. The downside was that when there were days I needed family, I couldn't just drive to them, but I was able to create what I like to call my "Humboldt family" when I needed support. I also had the support of various faculty members whom I was able to talk to one-on-one when things became difficult, and I was thinking about changing my major; they told me, "You can do this, just sit down, breathe, and do it," and that's what I did. I'm now a first-grade teacher in California, with two master's degrees and working on my third. My advice to young adults is that once you graduate from high school, you need to go away from your family to push yourself to be able to grow up and stand on your own two feet. Everything I've learned at Humboldt, I applied to help other young adults in all my work. Humboldt State University has given me the foundation to help me become who I am today as a young woman.
2010s
Mark Castro (2010)
After growing up in Southern California, I wanted to experience something new, and that's why I chose to attend Cal Poly Humboldt. I was the only one in my family to attend, and I was involved in the Anthropology Club. My advisor, Professor Mary Glenn, was very helpful in getting me through the program. I was able to have a holistic view and have different opinions from different professors. This gave me the backing I needed to succeed once I graduate. I also volunteered with the Cultural Resources Facility (CRF), where I acquired practical skills in archaeology from Director Jamie Roscoe and the many research associates who were my mentors. While at Humboldt, I was able to make lifelong friendships, and I was inspired by my professors and advisors. After graduating, I interned with the Bureau of Land Management; then I moved to the Sacramento area to work with the Eldorado National Forest before getting my master's degree at Sonoma State. I eventually moved back to Humboldt in 2017 to work for the CRF. I have been working to pass down my knowledge to Cal Poly Humboldt students as well as doing contract work for federal agencies for the last five years. I'm grateful for the experiences I had at Cal Poly Humboldt and the people I met along the way. It has been a great journey, and I'm proud to be an alum.
Sara (Downey) Mills (2010)
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My experience at Humboldt was life-changing. I was initially drawn to the university because of its great marine biology program and my love of the outdoors. During my freshman year, I was part of a very politically active and charged community due to the war in Iraq. This made me feel connected to the world and part of something bigger. I was also able to transition easily into college life due to the way classes were incorporated with the people I lived with in the dorms. I was also able to find my passion for research science through the Biology Core Facility. I was even part of the inaugural Bridges Scholarship Group, which was a fund to support California state and community college students. This led to my postdoc program at UCSF and, ultimately, my career. I have so much to thank Humboldt for. The small size of the campus and classrooms made it feel like a supportive community. I was able to have access to my professors and the focus on diversity and inclusion was essential to my growth. I am so grateful for my time at Humboldt and the lasting impression it has had on my life.
Katherine Monroe (2012)
Cristian, my husband, and I at a friend's wedding in Fortuna, 2019. Submitted.
Growing up in Southern California, I wanted to get away from home while still staying in California. I had heard about Cal Poly Humboldt and it had the program I wanted, so I decided to attend. I was part of the Marching Lumberjacks and a Dance minor, so I had a lot of fun performing with my classmates. I even met my sweetheart there, and we got married before our last semester of college. We just celebrated our 10-year anniversary. My time at Cal Poly Humboldt taught me time management since I was doing lots of extracurriculars and working at the same time. I also realized what kind of learner I am, and I was able to apply that to being a substitute teacher and eventually having my own classroom. My biggest takeaway from my time there is that it's okay to fail. Even if you think you're going to fail, it's okay. If you do fail, it's okay. It just means when you try again, it won't be as hard. Don't be afraid to do something just because you think you might fail. If you don't try, you'll only fail. I'm most grateful for the lifelong friendships I formed and the lessons I learned. I'm thankful for the opportunity to be part of Humboldt's school history.
Dana Marie Wisseman (2012)
Working as a general dentist in Salem, Oregon. Submitted.
I chose to attend Cal Poly Humboldt for my undergraduate degree because of the variety of programs I could choose from and its location. My major was Anthropology, and I minored in Communication. I was lucky to have two amazing professors who provided me with a lot of opportunities. Mary Glenn and Rebecca Robertson both allowed me to be a teaching assistant in their classes, go on summer field school programs with them, and work in their research laboratories. My time at Humboldt gave me a good foundation and allowed me to be independent in order to find out what my own interests were. It laid a foundation for the two graduate degrees I pursued afterward. I'm grateful for the faculty that showed an interest in me and the educational opportunities I was provided with. My greatest takeaway from my time at Cal Poly Humboldt was having an overall really great educational experience in a beautiful part of the country.
Natalie Birkholz (2013)
Senior portrait 2013 with my biggest inspirations! Submitted.
My dad was my biggest inspiration for attending Cal Poly Humboldt. He had gone there, and my uncle, who has since passed away, was also an inspiration. The unique Oceanography program for undergraduates was the biggest selling point. During my time there, I was part of the Marching Lumberjacks, which is celebrating its 55th anniversary this fall. I'm still active, and most of my best friends are from there. We traveled to different events, and I even got to play with my dad during my freshman year. I loved all my oceanography professors and going to the Marine Lab and on the Coral Sea were amazing experiences. My time at Humboldt helped me realize that I wanted to pursue something different, and I found out about their teaching credential program. I'm now able to bring my experiences to my students and I hope to teach AP oceanography or marine biology in the future. My dad was so motivated by me going to Humboldt that he, my uncle, and I all have our names on a brick at the new kinesiology building. We have 14 years of Holtz family members on the campus playing in the Marching Lumberjacks and studying science.
Saul Aguilar (2015)
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I had always been fascinated by the diversity of California, and my high school biology teacher had gone to Humboldt State for his undergrad. He would often talk to us about the redwoods and other parts of the state that don't get talked about enough. I wanted to attend a smaller school, as I felt it would help me focus more on my studies. I wasn't the best student, so I thought a more communal, college-town atmosphere would benefit me. When I arrived, I quickly realized I was in a completely different world. I was 700 miles away from home and had to be an adult. The first semester was rough, and I didn't see the sun for two months. I missed the beaches I had grown up on, and there weren't many Latinos around. I found solace in sports, the gym, and the sense of community. Most of us weren't from Humboldt, so we were all trying to figure out where we were. We became friends and supported each other through the next four years. My business classes were project-based, and my professors were often industry leaders. We used real-life numbers and companies, which made the material much clearer. I made lifelong friends in my classes and clubs, and I'm grateful for the sense of community that helped me stay. Looking back, I value the sense of community and the college town vibe the most. I still visit Humboldt a few times a year, and it's always a reminder of the fun pocket of life I experienced there.
Jeni Hardy (2017)
No matter how hard it may get, the satisfaction of completion outweighs all the trials and tribulations. Submitted.
I chose to attend Humboldt State University because of its great environmental science program and because it was close enough to home that I could visit but far enough away that I could have my own space. I was part of the track team. I loved the national parks and forests that were in our backyard. The small town and campus atmosphere was perfect for me. I was a student-athlete, running the 200 and the 400. I was also part of the Natural Resources club, but due to my athletic commitments, I rarely participated. My professors were incredibly helpful and supportive, and I owe my degree to their guidance and assistance. When I graduated in winter 2018, I was able to use the skills I had learned in my GIS classes to land a job. I had taken the necessary classes and understood what I was learning, and that helped me to excel in my career. Looking back on my time at Humboldt, I'm most grateful for my professors and the support they gave me. I'm also grateful for the opportunity to be part of the track team and the natural resources club. I'm thankful for the skills I learned that have helped me to excel in my career and for the memories I made during my time at Humboldt.
Cara Bussell (2018)
I remember watching my father graduate from Humboldt State and feeling so inspired. I wanted to have that same opportunity, so I decided to attend Cal Poly Humboldt and major in Native American Studies with an emphasis on law and government. I was also a part of the IEP and had an amazing experience with Marla Grant. She was so helpful and guided me through the process of picking classes and navigating Humboldt State. I lived off campus, so IEP became my home away from home. My favorite professor was Marlon Sherman. He taught me so much about the history of Native Americans that I had already been taught by my parents. I felt like I could really connect with him. After I graduated, I went straight into my career. My degree has opened up a lot of opportunities for me, especially within my tribe. I now have the educational background to apply for positions that I never could before. I currently work in bookkeeping and many other positions, but I would love to return to school. I was invited to do a speech for a group of Native American students at College of the Redwoods. They remembered that I was a mother of three kids and had struggled when I was younger and wanted to use me as an example. It was so inspiring to be able to go back and encourage them to go to school and show them that it was achievable. I felt like I was able to reach out and make a difference. I still miss school and would love the opportunity to sit in on a class again.
2020s
Leslie Ortiz (2022)
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I chose Humboldt State University because of its beauty and the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. I was determined to challenge myself and explore a new part of California. I chose to major in International Studies with a concentration in European Studies. I was lucky enough to study abroad in Spain in the summer of 2022. I loved the small classes and the incredible professors. They made me stay engaged and enjoy what I was learning. My professors, Noah and Matthew, were especially influential. Noah pushed me to do my best in Spanish and Matthew encouraged me to study abroad. Alison was also a great professor, I loved her charisma and dedication to teaching. My time at Humboldt has made me more culturally aware and opened my eyes to the world outside of the United States. I am grateful for the balance of nature and education that Humboldt provided. I also connected with some amazing people, including my roommates who are now two of my best friends. My advice to anyone starting their journey at Humboldt is to make friends, build relationships with your professors, and explore nature. Humboldt will provide you with a unique experience and the opportunity to grow.