Honors Student Executive Board

Amanda McCarthy, Chair

I am an Integral and Spanish double-major, class of 2027. I have many hobbies, including crochet, watercolor, cooking, and geocaching. I have played clarinet for 8 years now, making ensemble music one of my longest hobbies, with 14 years of experience in total. One recent project of mine was publishing, illustrating, and writing a bikini children's book inspired by my Jan term in Mexico called "Verano no se quiere ir", which is now available on multiple notable online stores. My long term career goal is to become an occupational therapist and to make an impact in the realm of rehabilitative science.

Aruna Silva, Peer Perspectives

I am going to be a senior this year, majoring in Environmental Science and minoring in Archaeology. I was born in Hawaii, but I lived overseas for most of my life, attending international schools. I like to hike, go to the beach, draw, and try different cafes in my free time. I joined the Honors Program Executive Board because I wanted to become more involved in the SMC community, and help students become more involved themselves as I help with the Peer Perspective events.

Sofia Yildirim, Academic Events & Contracts

I am a senior with a double-major in environmental science and biology, from Alameda CA. I have been a member of the Honors Program since my freshman year. I have a deep interest in the natural world and work as an undergraduate researcher trying to understand the connection between organisms and their environment. Outside of academics I am a creative and curious learner who enjoys dancing with the SMC Belly Dance and MENA Clubs, cooking Turkish food with my family, hiking, singing, and bouldering. I am honored to once again serve as one of the Academic Events and Contracts Commissioner for the Honors Program! My goal in this position is to give back to the community that has welcomed and supported me over the last three years at SMC, and to support the next generation of leaders and learners.

Aidan Silva, Public Relations

I am a biochemistry major with a psychology minor who ultimately aspires to become a pediatrician. In addition to academics and my role on the Honors Exec Team, I serve as Senior Class 2027 Chair for student government and a chemistry tutor in TASC. I also take great pride in serving as mentor for incoming freshman and transfers that are navigating school life as STEM majors. Some of my interests include traveling, fashion, comedy, going to the beach/lake, and spending good time with friends. The most important thing I want incoming/aspiring Honors students to know is that they are not alone and they can always reach out to me for guidance, questions, and help with anything they have with their academics and Honors journey.

Courtney Fitzgibbon, Public Relations

Hey everyone! I am currently a sophomore studying Kinesiology, Sports Management. I am also on the SMC cross country and track team so I am super involved in athletics as well as academics! I’m really excited to make it possible for athletes with their busy schedules to still be involved in events and just bring a slightly different perspective to the team!! To add to that, I am from New Zealand so repping the international students as well! Can’t wait for a super awesome year :))