Q & A with Honors Student David Yama
Recently, South students Hassan Abdi and David Yama were named to the All-Washington Academic Team. Abdi and Yama will join the rest of the outstanding students who were selected for this exclusive company on March 26th, where they will be honored with a luncheon at South Puget Sound Community College.
Members of the All-Washington Team are chosen from the state’s community and technical colleges. These students are chosen not just for their outstanding achievements in the classroom, but also in their communities.
Some of you may recognize Yama from our social media series, FACES OF SOUTH. We recently sat down with Abdi for a Q & A with Abdi, and now it’s Yama’s turn to get into the hot seat. Yama’s candid answers cover his journey at South that started when he came here to earn his GED, and continues with his upcoming graduation (this Spring) when he will earn an Associate of Science in Biology.
South: What does being a part of the All-Washington Academic Team mean to you?
Yama: It tells me that I can do more, that I can push further. It also validates the idea that we should give our goals our all.
South: What do you think is the key to your academic success?
Yama: Making a life at school. It may seem crazy, or even boring, but if you make a network of friends and life at school it will be rewarding and fun. You will be successful and fulfilled as a result.
South: Who, on this campus, has been the most influential in your success?
Yama: Three names pop out the most: Rochelle Fonoti, Bob Dela-Cruz and Jacob Ashcraft
South: If a friend was considering come to South, what would you tell them?
Yama: South has the most helpful faculty and staff anywhere, and so many opportunities!
South: How has South prepared you for your next step after graduation?
Yama: South has given me a strong foundation and the tools necessary to continue towards a bachelors in bioengineering. It has also helped me secure the funding necessary to keep going.
South: What are some of your best study habits?
Yama: If it can be scheduled, it can be accomplished.
South: Can you share a quote that you try to live by?
Yama: I deserve nothing, I earn everything.
Congratulations to both Mr. Abdi and Mr. Yama – they certainly have earned it!