Honors Program Student Society Officer Bios
Mary Zhong, President
Major(s)/Minor(s): Political Science/Chinese/Philosophy
Year in SDSU: Junior
Study Abroad Location: Oxford, England
Other Activities: One of my favorite pastimes is reading, I love all genres of literature; especially the works of C.S. Lewis. I also enjoy playing the piano, writing poetry, and collecting striking and extravagant rocks.
Favorite quote: Dwight D. Eisenhower knowingly said, “We seek peace, knowing that peace is the climate of freedom.” To be at peace with ourselves, is to be free—emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Peace breathes life into freedom; as freedom gives way to peace, and the strength to conquer and prevail shines through.
If you were an animal, what animal would you be and why? I would choose to be a Great White Shark. I always had a fascination with sea creatures, but I held a particular passion with sharks—an example of evolutionary perfection, having endured and flourished for over millions of years even through profound environmental change. They are most magnificent but also the most misunderstood creatures.
Steve Wood, Vice President
Major(s)/Minor(s) Major: English, Minor: Spanish
Year in SDSU Senior (WooHoo!)
Study Abroad Location Alajuela, Costa Rica
Other activities Shift Manager @ CVS, Instructional Assistant in DRWS, reading, pretentious literary conversation, and attending the theatre.
Favorite quote: "My only regret is that I have but one life to lose for my country" ~ Capt. Nathan Hale, U.S. Army.
If you were an animal, what animal would you be and why? I would be a falcon -- all of the speed of a fast car, the accuracy of long rifle and the ability to fly.
Diana Crofts-Pelayo, Secretary
Major: Journalism and Spanish
Year in SDSU: Sophomore year
Study Abroad Location: Have not traveled abroad yet at SDSU
Activities: Public Relations for the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ)
Favorite quote: “Believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge -- myth is more potent than history -- dreams are more powerful than facts -- hope always triumphs over experience -- laughter is the cure for grief -- love is stronger than death.” --Robert Fulghum
Favorite Animal: If I were an animal I would be a lion. I have always loved lions because they are magnificent and beautiful animals. Lions have the freedom to be in the wild and rule any land on which they stand. They are powerful and wise animals. They show brute force, while at the same time showing their tenderness towards their pride. I also like lions because my hair closely resembles their mane.
Kelly Hofmann, Treasurer
Major(s)/Minor(s): Accounting
Year in SDSU: Junior
Study Abroad Location: No answer yet, but hopefully Germany
Other activities: Phi Eta Sigma, Phi Kappa Phi, Finance and Investment Society
Favorite quote along with the author of said quote: "You cannot protect yourself from sadness without protecting yourself from happiness." -Jonathan Safran Foer
If you were an animal, what animal would you be and why? An otter! I like to play and have fun but I'm also very industrious.
Berry Soltani, Campus Engagement Coordinator
Major(s)/Minor(s): Major: Psychology, Minor: Communication
Year in SDSU: Junior (3rd year)
Study Abroad Location: No Answer (not yet at least!!!)
Other activities: Cultural Arts and Special Events (CASE!) Board on Associated Students, Scholars without Borders
Favorite Quote: "You must be the change you wish to see in the world." -Mahatma Gandhi
If you were an animal, what animal would you be and why?: Cat, because I can be quiet at times but I'm also feisty, and I value intelligence, grace, and independence.
