The Student Government of the University of Nevada, Reno
The Student Government of the University of Nevada, Reno
Posted Tuesday, June 14, 2011 by
The Outstanding Senior Award is awarded annually by ASUN to two graduating seniors who have received outstanding grades, shown exemplary leadership, and participated in volunteer work. This year, Matthew Polasko and Kerry Csiga were presented with this award.
Polasko, who majored in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and at the University of Nevada accredits his faith in himself for all of his academic success thus far.
“Over the four years, I had to deal with my uncertainties about what I was capable of doing. As time went on, the ante was increased, and I took on more work, with more at stake, with more reward at the end. I couldn’t make those sacrifices or take large ‘gambles’ if I didn’t believe in myself,” said Polasko.
In addition to receiving the Outstanding Senior Award, Polasko made the College of Science Dean’s List every semester of his college career, was the CABNR Senior Scholar, and was awarded the national Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship. Polasko also was involved with three science labs over three years, including the University of Nevada 2010 International Genetically Engineered Machine Team that represented the school worldwide. Polasko advises students attending college to make a plan for their future, to have confidence in themselves and to trust but verify bureaucratic systems.
“Don’t be afraid to take risks or challenge yourself. Too many students in my opinion follow the path of least resistance, which might work for electrons in a circuit, but does nothing to make you competitive in a global market job,” said Polasko.
The second recipient, Csiga, who majored in Biology at the university, believes her academic achievements have been the result of her hard work.
“I’m just a really driven person, and I have a fear of failing that really motivated me,” said Csiga.
Csiga participated in the Pre-Dental Society for three years at the university and was in the Young Democrats for two years. She was a Resident Assistant in the residential halls on campus for two years as well as the Secretary and Vice President for the National Residence Hall Honorary.
“Study hard, but don’t forget about what’s important, because no one is going to remember your GPA in ten years. They’re not going to care at least, but they are going to care about the experiences you had in college,” said Csiga.
Currently Csiga is working as a Teacher’s Assistant at the university for two science classes. In July she will be moving to Portland where she will begin dental school. Csiga advises students to live a balanced lifestyle in college.
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