SJSU Class of 2020: 7,600+ Reasons to Celebrate
Photo: David Schmitz.
This spring, San José State’s newest alumni finished their degrees while the world changed. What these graduates learned, how they adapted and who they became during their final semester—and throughout the rest of their time at SJSU—will serve them well, both now and in the future.
Until the SJSU community can cheer for this resilient class of Spartans as they walk across the stage at a live commencement, each graduate is a reason to celebrate.
In this feature, Washington Square shares some of the ways Spartans and Spartans at heart have honored this special graduating class.
“Back home in Cameroon education is not for the poor, but here it is so encouraging,” says Saadatou Ahmad, ’20 Accounting and Information Systems. “Here, I have the support system to be a first-generation student.”
Dreams are Worth the Wait
Steve Scott, ’20 Broadcast Journalism, is morning anchor for WCBS Newsradio 880 in New York City. Scott returned to SJSU to finish his degree 40 years after he started. “The moral of my story that I would pass along to others is that your dream doesn’t have to have an expiration date. If you follow through, it’s not too late to do what you’ve always wanted to do.” Read about Scott’s return to campus.
Graduate Reflections
From first-generation and international Spartans to a military veteran and a working parent, these graduates are path-breakers and change-makers. A few of SJSU’s 2020 graduates reflected on their time at SJSU, achievements and plans for the future. Read about their reflections.
Campus Recognition
After Professor and Chair of the Department of Chicana and Chicano Studies Magdalena Barrera climbed the Inca Trail, she realized the most meaningful part of her experience was not the end, watching the sunrise over Machu Picchu, but the journey itself. Graduates, your anticipated sunrise moment—walking at Commencement—has to wait. But, Barrera says, “You have climbed the mountain that is SJSU.” Watch Barrera’s graduate recognition video, as well as a Youtube playlist of those from deans, faculty members and honored graduates.
Advice from Alumni
“This is only the beginning. Your future is waiting. Boldly walk forward and claim what’s yours. And don’t forget to give back. Congrats!”
—Jessica Chen, ’13 Mechanical Engineering
The SJSU Alumni Association asked alumni for 20 words of advice for the class of 2020. Read advice and share yours with #SJSU20for20.
Community Congrats
Inspired by SJSU’s class of 2020, Silicon Valley CEOs, professional athletes, legislators, SJSU’s faculty members, administrators and alumni caught the Spartan spirit.
