Las Vegas City Wire

The University of Nevada, Reno’s Westfall Scholars luncheon recently celebrated the top students from the fall 2022 graduating class.

Leading students from the fall 2022 graduating class used their speeches to thank loved ones who have supported their academic efforts, according to a Nov. 23 university press release.

Tina Fung, a biology student, said networking was a critical skill she developed to become a top scholar.  

"Join clubs, talk to your professors, explore,” Fung said. “You’ll be amazed at the amount of wonderful people that you’re surrounded with throughout your undergraduate career. I know it may sound cheesy but being in college is such a privilege for many people and as a first-generation student, I especially resonate with this, so appreciate every moment, take risks and take yourself out of your comfort zone– even if it’s just for a little while."

The Westfall Scholars are named after the founding dean of the College of Science, David Westfall, the release stated. When he retired the Dean’s Senior Scholars were renamed in his honor. David, his wife Shirley, and their daughter Alison attended the ceremony.

Fung hopes to become a doctor to make a positive impact on communities across Nevada. 

“I plan to put my major in biology and minor in Chinese to good use if I am lucky enough to attend medical school following graduation,” Fung said. “I hope to become a Chinese-speaking physician who can lower language barriers between patient and physician with an overarching goal to provide quality care to the underserved communities of Nevada.”