The following students represent the Adams State Fall 2025 Class.
Tim Leon Mietenkorte
Bachelor of Science
Business Administration/Banking & Finance
Lengerich, Germany
Summa Cum Laude
Transferring to Adams State allowed Tim to continue competing in soccer. “I benefitted from supportive faculty like Yusri Zaro (assistant professor of finance). He appreciated the opportunity to begin graduate level courses while still an undergraduate and will complete a Master of Business Administration with a finance emphasis in the summer.
After earning his MBA, Tim will pursue a Master of Science in finance at the University of Texas at Dallas, while playing his last two seasons of soccer. Long-term, he plans to work in management, strategy consulting, or corporate finance.
Professor Zaro and Liz Hensley, Ph.D., director of the School of Business, provided guidance in both academics and professional development, helping Tim navigate classes, internships, and career planning.
Tim received several scholarships and held work-study jobs as a business tutor for finance classes and at the Nielsen Library circulation desk. “Both of which I found highly rewarding.” Additionally, Tim completed two three-month summer internships in Germany, one in the Business Development Department of a world-leading manufacturing corporation, and another in the Finance & Consulting department of Europe’s largest trailer manufacturer. He also participated in the team internship program at Adams State in collaboration with the City of Alamosa in the fall of 2024.
“Coaches, work-study supervisors, and staff offered mentorship, advice, and encouragement, helping me balance academics, athletics, and career planning.”
The combination of scholarships, work-study opportunities, and family support allowed Tim to focus fully on academics and athletics without financial stress. Being debt-free gives Tim a strong start for graduate school and his career.
“I have grown immensely academically, athletically, and most importantly as a person. Coming to the U.S. from Germany at 18 was a big leap out of my comfort zone. Over the past three years, I’ve learned to navigate a new culture, manage a rigorous academic and athletic schedule, and challenge myself in ways I never expected. I’ve gained confidence, resilience, and a broader perspective, and I’m proud of the person I’ve become while earning my degree.”
Julian Sisneros
Bachelor of Science
Biology-Wildlife
Belen, New Mexico
Cum Laude
Small class sizes, approachable professors, and hands-on learning were instrumental in Julian’s academic success. “I had opportunities I may not have had at a larger school, especially fieldwork, research projects, and outdoor learning experiences.”
After graduating, Julian plans to become a game warden and work directly in wildlife protection, law enforcement, and outdoor resource management. Long-term, he hopes to build a career serving the community, protecting wildlife, and helping conserve natural areas.
Julian’s professors were supportive and invested in his success. They helped him stay on track, gave guidance, and pushed him to think critically. His advisor helped with scheduling, career planning, and encouraged Julian to take opportunities that challenged him. “They created a learning environment where I felt comfortable asking questions and growing.”
Along with receiving scholarships, Julian was a work-study for the Adventure Program and had off campus jobs over the summer working for Colorado Parks & Wildlife. He also worked as a fly-fishing guide at Conejos River Anglers.
“People outside academics were very supportive. Work-study supervisors, financial aid staff, and other campus employees helped make things easier and encouraged me. They were friendly, helpful, and always willing to answer questions or offer guidance when I needed it.”
Julian graduates in three-and-a-half years with no debt. He was active in the Adventure Program and the College Assistant Migrant Program.
“I entered as a freshman unsure of myself and unsure of what college would be like. Over the years I became more confident, independent, and disciplined. I learned how to communicate, manage time, and balance challenges. I’m finishing my degree feeling prepared, responsible, and ready for what comes next.”
Calvin Smith Ssendawula
Bachelor of Science
Computer Science
Rowlette, TX, 75088
Earning a college degree means a lot to Calvin, who grew up in Kampala, Uganda, and moved to the US in high school to pursue a better education. “Education is very expensive in Uganda and it can be hard to afford school supplies as well.”
He is thankful for his whole family and friends who supported him. “I have achieved one of many milestones that some people wish they could achieve. I’m beyond grateful.”
Calvin appreciates the great experience of attending a small college in a small town. “I love the great professors and close relationships I formed with them.”
He had an internship as a software developer with Amazon. “I gained skills from working at a big corporation and made lifelong connections.”
Calvin received several scholarships and worked as tech for Computing Services during all four years as a student. “The work-study job provided me with the skills to collaborate, and work with a team, since day one.”
“My professors were always supportive whenever I asked for help on complex topics as well as homework.” His advisor made sure Calvin stayed on track to graduate and maintained a good grade point average.
A member of the swim team, Calvin said Head Coach Melinda Hunzaker supported him during his job search, including setting up introductions to employers she personally knew. His Computing Services supervisor, Nathan Sellers, was also very supportive in filling out job applications and referrals.
Calvin graduated in four years and helped run the esports game room ensuring its was open to students. “My growth from freshman year has been a roller coaster to a graduating senior. I am grateful for everything I have accomplished along the way.”
Joshua Valentine
Bachelor of Science
Business Administration-Agribusiness Emphasis
La Jara, Colo.
Cum Laude
Adams State has played a large roll in Joshua’s family. Both of his parents, three of his grandparents, and his brother are alumni. Two of his younger sisters are currently attending and several aunts and uncles graduated from Adams State.
“The fact that the university is right in our backyard made it the perfect fit. It allowed me to stay connected to home, continue working on our family ranch, and still take advantage of the opportunities Adams State offers—both in the classroom and through internships. The support from faculty and the community made my experience even better.”
After graduating, Joshua will accept a full-time role at First Southwest Bank. He is currently working part-time as a portfolio manager. “Long-term, I hope to keep building my career in agricultural lending while also continuing to grow and expand my family’s operation, Valentine Cattle Company. My goal is to stay rooted in the San Luis Valley and make an impact in both ag finance and ranching.”
Joshua credits his professors for his success at Adams State, especially his advisor, Zena Buser, Ph.D., professor of business. “She supported me from day one—always pushing me to grow, helping me set goals, and giving me opportunities that matched both my academic interests and my work on our family ranch. Dr. Buser goes above and beyond for her students. She truly cares, she checks in, she celebrates your wins, and she challenges you to keep improving. Her guidance has shaped my entire academic journey, and I wouldn’t be where I am without her. I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Buser.”
Yusri Zaro, MBA, assistant professor of finance, challenges his students in the best way. “He explains complex financial concepts in a way that sticks, and he expects his students to think critically and master the material,” Joshua said. “His teaching strengthened my foundation in the financial side of agriculture and prepared me for my career in ag lending. He made me a strong student, a stronger thinker, and more confident in my abilities. Overall, my professors pushed me, supported me, and made sure I had the tools to succeed both academically and professionally.”
Valentine received the USDA NextGen Scholarship, and he completed an internship with Valentine Cattle Company, which tied classroom learning directly to real-world agriculture.
He appreciates his parents teaching him, and his sister, about every part of the ranch. “They didn’t just teach us how to work cattle—they taught us the business. We grew up understanding that ranching is both physical labor and strategic financial management.” His internship with Valentine Cattle Company provided the opportunity to apply classroom learning directly to ranching operation. “Every concept suddenly had real-world meaning. When we talked about balance sheets in class, I could go home and look at the ranch’s actual numbers. When we learned about depreciation or cash flow, I could see how it applied to tractors, pivots, and cattle. My sister and I feel prepared to move the ranch forward for the next generation.”
Thanks to scholarships and the opportunities provided through Adams State and the USDA NextGen program, Joshua graduates with almost no debt, in four years. He earned his associates degree at Trinidad State College and transferred to Adams State, completing his bachelor’s degree over the next two years.
As a member of the agricultural club, Joshua traveled to Washington, D.C. “It was an incredible experience and allowed me to learn more about agricultural policy and leadership while representing Adams State.”
When Joshua started college, he had a strong work ethic and a passion for agriculture but was still figuring out who he wanted to become and how to connect classroom learning to real-life goals.
“Over the past four years, I learned how to balance school, work, and responsibilities on our ranch. I developed confidence in the financial and business side of agriculture, especially through my internship and the classes that pushed me to think more critically. Transferring to Adams State helped me find my direction. The support from professors like Dr. Buser and Professor Zaro helped shape me into a stronger student and future professional.
“I’m leaving Adams State with a clear career path, real-world experience, and the confidence to step into a full-time role in ag lending while continuing to help lead our family ranch. I’ve grown from just being involved in agriculture to understanding it—and being ready to take on more responsibility in both the financial world and the ranching world.”
Gianna Vezzani
Bachelor of Arts
Mathematics with Secondary Teacher Licensure
Trinidad, Colo.
As a legacy student, Gianna connected with the small town and tight knit community. “I built great relationships with my professors and appreciated the smaller class size.” Gianna’s mother received her Master of Arts in school counseling and is earning a second master’s.
Currently employed at Trinidad High School as a mathematics teacher, Gianna plans on staying at her high school alma mater and giving back to her community. “It is nice to come back to my hometown and create future generations of successful and hardworking young adults.”
The School of Education professors ensured her success as a student. “They created a great support system. I am grateful to have created so many professional relationships during my time at Adams State.”
As a work-study assistant in the Records Office for four years, and as a teacher’s assistant for a semester, Gianna received support and professional experience. “My supervisors in the Records Office were very supportive and caring. I created many friendships in this office that will last a lifetime. I was grateful to receive teaching experience at a higher level as a TA. I was excited to work closely with my professor and advisor, Peter Anderson.”
She graduates without student debt in four years. Gianna received the NSF Robert Noyce Teacher’s Scholarships and many other institutional scholarships. “It is an amazing feeling to graduate with a four-year degree and not have student loans to pay back.”
Gianna was on the Cheer Squad for two years. “I have matured and grown from my first to final year. I learned how to balance challenging classes, extracurricular activities, and being on my own for the first time. I was able to create so many friendships here in Alamosa. It also taught me to get back up and work harder every time you get knocked down.”
Post-graduate Degrees
Erica Bean
Master of Arts
Education/Curriculum and Instruction with Elementary Licensure Emphasis
Pagosa Springs, Colo.
Erica teaches kindergarten at Pagosa Springs Elementary School. “I was inspired to become a teacher because of my daughter.” During her daughter’s first three years, Erica stayed at home and was inspired by her curiosity and love for learning. After accepting a kindergarten position with a public school, she enrolled and was impressed by the Adams State curriculum and professors. “I truly have learned so much and know I would not be the teacher I am today if I chose to not go through this program. I am forever thankful and feel I have found my calling.”