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Being a member of the Honors Student Association (HSA) has been one of the best and most rewarding decisions I made during my academic career! 

My name is Estrella Balderas, and I am a second-year student here at Â鶹ÊÓƵ and a second-year member of HSA, as well as a former Secretary/Treasurer of HSA. Through HSA, I have connected with like-minded honors students, student organizations, and most important, been presented with new opportunities.  

HSA fosters an environment of personal growth through the countless opportunities provided in areas such as service, leadership, and community. With the opportunities offered through HSA, I have participated in meaningful volunteer experiences that include the annual Bicycles and Bibles event held by the Reaud Foundation and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Additionally, via HSA, I serve as a Peer Mentor to incoming first-year students. The Peer Mentor program empowers me to pass on the knowledge I gained during my first year to students whose shoes I once was in, which has so far proven to be an invaluable experience for both my mentees and me! 

HSA also promotes community and a sense of unity in the Reaud Honors College by showcasing activities and accomplishments of other honors students to encourage YOU to be the best version of yourself! These activities include awards, HIEPs (such as study abroad/research/leadership), and much more! Through the efforts of HSA, I have broadened my horizons. Right now, I am conducting research alongside a mentor, with the hopes of conducting my own research project soon! Additionally, I aspire to possibly study abroad, participate in Partners in the Park, or be a McNair or David J. Beck research fellow!  

With the help and encouragement of HSA, I have learned that the opportunities here at Â鶹ÊÓƵ are endless and that I will always have the support of other Honors students behind me. I hope you will all make the same decision I did during my first year—join HSA!  

Sincerely,  

Estrella Balderas