Join the Conversation
CNSM Community Conversations lift up the many voices in our College community to share stories of gratitude and growth.
Being thankful for something positive — big or small — can feel good. A simple gesture from a friend, loved one, classmate, or faculty can make a difference. A rewarding experience, such as discovering something new through a research project or earning an award or scholarship, can give a helpful boost when needed most.
What is Your Story?
We would love to hear about your story of gratitude and growth. Each month we select a contributed story to be featured on CNSM Community Conversations.
Featured Stories
Check back monthly to see our latest feature!
November 2025
David Chi, Math Graduate Student
On Saturday, October 18, I attended the Fall 2025 Mathematical Association of America (MAA) Southern California – Nevada section conference hosted at California State University, Fullerton. My advisor Dr. Pair and I signed up for the conference to do a 15-minute presentation on our research in the field of math education. It was a great experience communicating with other mathematicians and math educators from various parts of California and the country.
Participating in this conference has shown me that mathematics is not an activity done in isolation but in a broader community of others with diverse backgrounds. There were mathematicians and educators from different cultures, ages, and gender. Being able to communicate ideas and being personable is critical when it comes to discussing ideas and bringing change to the field of mathematics and math education.
Before, I felt more isolated as a student just attending my math lectures and leaving once class is over, but I now feel more included in the mathematics community after my experience at the conference. I hope to provide the same sense of inclusion that I experienced in my continuing journey as a student and future educator of mathematics.
October 2025
Christina Hall, CNSM Director of Development
I'm grateful to be at The Beach working to help students achieve their goals. Every day, É«ÖÐÉ« students inspire me through their hard work, commitment, and enthusiasm. I started at The Beach in January 2020, six weeks before the pandemic. Despite the certain challenges, I observed the campus community come together wholeheartedly to provide the best educational opportunities to students during the most difficult times.
After the pandemic, a short hiatus from É«ÖÐÉ« left me deeply missing the campus vibrancy and dedicated spirit. So, I came back! Now, anytime I need a little lift to make my day, all I need is to walk around our beautiful campus for the breath of fresh air I need. I am thankful to do the work that I do to support students, faculty, staff, and the entire campus community. Go Beach!
September 2025
Javier Rios, Biochemistry '25
Being involved in research has helped me incredibly during my education by obtaining help and guidance from my research professor, and by being able to apply my chemistry knowledge. It also has helped me understand more about the classes I take, making me a better intuitive person when facing challenges.
Lab research is a great way to make connections and build up skills for your future career. My lab mates and research professor make my lab experience very valuable and enjoyable since I can ask questions or ask for their help when making mistakes.
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