Onward, Wildcats!
From coding to User Experience (UX), cybersecurity to social media, our grads have contributed meaningfully to University Information Technology Services (UITS) while pursuing degrees across a wide range of disciplines. Amber Krock, earning a degree in Cyber Operations with an emphasis in Defense and Forensics, says her experience reaffirmed her passion for cybersecurity. “My journey has made my goals feel achievable,” she shares. Amber plans to continue her education in the University of Arizona’s Master of Science in Cyber & Information Operations program.
Dalian Meraz, a first-generation student graduating with a degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering, worked at the Tech Zones, where he strengthened both technical and people skills. “This degree means more than just finishing school,” he says. “It’s proof to myself that with hard work and resilience, I can achieve anything.”
Several graduates worked on the UArizona Mobile app team, blending creativity and tech to enhance the student experience. Claire Lodermeier, a student iOS developer, helped build features with Swift and UIKit, learning mobile development from scratch. “It’s been really rewarding to build new skills from the ground up.” Kelly Tran, a designer with the mobile team, found purpose through collaboration, creativity, and curiosity. “I started out as a veterinary science major,” she says. “Now I know I’m right where I’m supposed to be—in design and tech.”
Margo Mykhaylyk, also part of the app team, graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Video Game Design and Development and a minor Information Science and Technology. Her work focused on user interface layouts and user research. Next, she hopes to pursue opportunities in 3D art and UX design while also taking time to travel. Fellow UX Designer Nataly Sotelo Burquez, who will earn a Master of Science in Marketing, aims to apply design thinking and creativity to a future role as a creative director.
For Sasha McDonald, a student social media curator and soon-to-be Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Illustration, Design, and Animation, working with UITS has been about connection and creativity. “I love learning about new organizations and sharing them with others,” she says. Sasha hopes to work with museums and nonprofits while continuing her work as a freelance muralist and designer.
And for Alana Talkington, who is earning a Master’s degree in Global Media, walking across the stage is personal. “I’m doing this for my girls,” she says. “I want to show them that continuing education is possible with a family and that it's never too late to grow.”
Each of these grads, and all those across UITS, are moving into their next chapters with knowledge, purpose, and pride. We are thrilled to celebrate your accomplishments and can’t wait to see what comes next. Bear down and congratulations to the Class of 2025!