By Sloane Barlow
During the academic year, the Honors College provides events, opportunities, and resources for its 4,500+ students. Through it all, dedicated employees help operations run smoothly.
Three of our student employees are graduating this spring, taking what they have learned at the Honors College to continue their academic and career paths.
Tanushree Thapar
Tanushree Thapar has been a part of the Honors College as a Student Assistant for the past academic year, greeting visitors from the front desk when they walk into Eustace-Cole Hall. She has kindly starred in promotional content for the Honors College store and Campbell Hall renovation videos. She first came to Michigan State four years ago from her hometown of Delhi, India and will be graduating with a degree in Neuroscience, and a minor in Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
What is your favorite memory from the Honors College?
For me the Honors College stands out for its celebration of diversity and inclusive environment. Everyone is exceptionally welcoming, and the warmth is palpable. The support from my peers, assistance from my advisors, and resources available at HC have made my studies here unforgettable.
What advice would you give your first-year self at MSU?
You’re doing wonderfully. Continue to believe in yourself. There’s no need to measure your success against others because your journey is as unique as you are.
What is one thing you’ll take away from the Honors College after graduating?
As I move forward, I carry with me the kindness and the profound respect for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging that the Honors College embodies. These values have deepened my perspective, made me more empathetic, and shaped me well for my future endeavors.
“Thanks to ChatGPT, Chegg, and the genius behind copy-paste. Also, God knew I would be too powerful if I could do Math.”
Signing off,
Tanushree Thapar
Sofia Diaz
Sofia Diaz joined the Honors College communications team this past summer. She has used her skills in graphic design to create content for weekly email newsletters, Honors College social media accounts, event flyers, and the year-end report. Soon she will be graduating with a degree in Creative Advertising and a minor in Graphic Design.
What is your favorite memory from the Honors College?
My favorite memory of working at the Honors College was when we created a Hispanic Heritage Month video and I got to speak about my heritage. I enjoyed speaking on my culture for our social media audience to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
What advice would you give your first-year self at MSU?
That it will all be ok. There were a lot of times in college where I had to make some tough decisions, but in the end they were all for the better and I wouldn’t have changed anything.
What is one thing you’ll take away from the Honors College after graduating?
I will take the ambition and spirit with me into my career. Everyone I have met at the Honors College is always determined to do their best and achieve their goals. I admire the high–achieving spirit we have here at the Honors College.
“It was my delusion and naivety that brought me here.” —Lady Gaga
Signing off,
Sofia Diaz
Elisa Garcia
Elisa Garcia joined the Honors College as an Admissions Associate and Graduate Assistant two years ago, after receiving her bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of California Merced in 2020. Her hard work and dedication has helped the Honors College recruit new students and forge strong connections. She will be graduating with a master’s degree from the Student Affairs Administration Program in the College of Education.
What is your favorite memory from the Honors College?
My favorite memory is the ADS program, a cherished event where prospective students from around the nation visit MSU. I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to engage with these bright minds and their families or supporters. It was a joy to witness their excitement and curiosity about our community and to share my own experiences as an employee of the Honors College.
What advice would you give your first-year self at MSU?
I wish I had not been so hard on myself and reached out more to my family for support. As a first-generation student, I did not want to let my family down on this special opportunity and privilege to attend a four-year university. I would recommend myself to still feel honored but take it step by step as each person is on their [own] journey to success.
What is one thing you’ll take away from the Honors College after graduating?
Every student is so passionate about their academic journey and experience; it’s contagious! Moving forward to my next journey, I want to express my gratitude and passion for the work I do.
“Ganas. That’s all we need is ganas.” —Stand and Deliver (1988)
Signing off,
Elisa Garcia