Student spotlight: Bryza Samaoya Soto
We are excited to introduce Bryza Samayoa-Soto, an inspiring accounting major at Saint Martin’s University, whose ambition is to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Bryza is an L1000 scholar who has been a pillar of support for her peers, actively engaging with the Diversity and Equity Center. Her journey from Jutiapa, Guatemala, to Highline High School in Burien, Washington, has been one of empowerment and dedication.
Q: What influenced your decision on what college to attend?
A: I first visited Saint Martin’s University my sophomore year of high school and the moment I saw the whole campus, I knew I wanted to come here. I love the size of the campus and how much the campus is surrounded by nature!
Q: What are your long-term goals, beyond your dream job? How do you hope to make a positive impact on your community or the world?
A: As a long-term goal, after getting my bachelor’s in accounting, I want to go back to school and finish the requirements to take the CPA exam and become a certified public accountant. I want to be the person that guides individuals in making sound financial decisions and become a role model within their community.
Q: Any clubs, activities, or involvements you are a part of outside of class?
A: I actively participate in the Equity and Diversity Center at Saint Martin’s. As well, I serve as an AHANA mentor at a three-day orientation for students of diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. We come together and engage with the campus community and gather information about student support services and make new connections! I participated in this orientation my freshman year so it’s special to me.
Q: What is a challenge you have encountered in college and how did you navigate it?
A: A challenge I have encountered is balancing academic responsibilities with my personal life. Until this point, I am still working on balancing everything out, but one thing that has really helped me is taking time for myself. School, work, and family obligations can become stressful. To make sure everything balances out, I plan out my week based on the days I work and the things I must get done, and make sure I balance the workload every day, so it does not become too stressful.
Q: What student support/resources have you utilized that have been most helpful to you?
A: Student health center, they always welcome you with a big smile and provide you with the support you need. If they do not offer what you need, they do a great job guiding you in the right direction to help you find what you need. TimelyCare, they helped me transition from college and being away from my family. This platform provides counseling to all students, and they find someone who is there to support you.
Q: Advice for your fellow peers?
A: To always stay true to yourself. College is not only about academics, but college is also about making connections and finding what you are truly passionate about. You are going to face challenges, but those challenges won’t last forever. You will find a solution, in the process make sure to always remember who you are, and don’t let any of those challenges change you or your passions.