Class of 2028: These Home-State Standouts Represent the Future of LSU’s Priority Areas

Agriculture

Emilee Bullock

What made you decide on LSU?

The vibrant culture, rich diversity, and the sense of community on such a large campus made me feel right at home. LSU provided everything I sought for a successful future: dedicated tutors, supportive peer mentors, and insightful advisors. Most importantly, it offered a space where I could share my passions and interests with like-minded students.

Are there particular courses or subjects you are excited to explore?

I’m thrilled to dive into my Agricultural Education classes. The field of agriculture is incredibly diverse, offering endless opportunities for learning, and I’m passionate about both advocating for and educating others on this vital subject.

What's the most important thing you brought with you from home?

The most cherished item I brought from home is a box brimming with mementos from my high school journey. Inside, you'll find boarding passes from Washington, D.C., my State FFA Degree Chain, heartfelt notes from fellow FFA members, and Polaroid photos capturing unforgettable moments. Each item in this box represents a significant chapter of my life, embodying the experiences, friendships, and achievements that have shaped me. This collection serves as a constant reminder of where I’ve been and the values I carry with me as I embark on new adventures.

Biomedical

Zachary Cryer

Are there particular courses or subjects you are excited to explore at LSU?

I am very interested in learning more about the human body and the maintenance of health through proper nutrition. Even if I choose to pursue a career in medicine over a career in nutrition, I will still have four years of in-depth knowledge to be able to recommend to my patients and use in my own life. 

How do you feel about going to school in Baton Rouge and Louisiana? 

I was raised around four hours away from here, so I am excited to truly experience South Louisiana culture for the first time. LSU is also about an hour away from one of the biggest cultural capitals in the world—New Orleans—and I cannot wait to embrace that either. Baton Rouge has great food, great music, great sports, and a great culture. I think the geography plays a big part in that, us being so close to the gulf, ports, etcetera. I believe one of the greatest cultural melting pots in America is right here in Baton Rouge. 

What's the most important thing you brought with you from home? 

The most important things I brought from home are two pictures of my family and my Bible. They serve as strong reminders of who I am, where I come from, and what I believe in, and the reasons I am here in the first place. Without God's almighty will and my family's intense motivation, I would not be the person I am today, and I am grateful to be able to rely on them. 

Coast

Sebastian Lee

How was your experience being part of the state finalist team for Samsung Solve for Tomorrow in high school? 

It was a great experience. I learned more about how to collaborate with a team to do individual parts that come together to make a whole. Apart from winning $2,500 for our school, I hope that brought awareness to Natchitoches’ tap water quality issues.

What learning opportunities are you most looking forward to at LSU?

I am excited to learn more about marine invertebrates because their biology is very interesting. I'm also hoping to research more about cephalopods because of how intelligent they are. I hope to work in a lab one day, and I feel that participating in undergraduate research will help prepare me for future jobs.

What's the most important thing you brought with you from home?

My personal computer. I use that thing so much for schoolwork and entertainment.

Defense

Ali Habib

How do you feel about staying in state for college?

I really love the state of Louisiana, and as the flagship university, LSU was my top choice. As the capital, it doesn’t get much better than Baton Rouge!

What academic achievements or milestones are you aiming for during your time at LSU?

I am aiming to maintain a 4.0 GPA while graduating through the LSU Honors College. Research opportunities are incredibly important to me, as one day I would like to go to grad school and be a university professor. I would like to research how technological improvements can help the state of Louisiana.

What personal growth or development are you hoping to achieve?

I am hoping to develop my confidence and my connections with people around campus. I am already a part of the Stamps cohort and Engineering Diversity Ambassadors Club, and I hope to join a few more organizations that will help expand my connections. 

What's the most important thing you brought with you from home?

I’d say my pillow. I love a good sleep!

Energy

Delina Tewelde 

How did you develop an interest in environmental engineering?

My interest in environmental engineering was sparked during my junior year of high school, when I conducted a research project on the potential for sugarcane by-products to be used to create biofuel. This project earned me first place in the Energy: Sustainable Materials and Design category at the Greater New Orleans Science and Engineering Fair, along with several other awards, including a scholarship to Tulane’s Summer Science Program. These experiences helped clarify my passion for sustainability and renewable energy.

What career goals do you have, and how do you plan to use your college experience to prepare for your future career?

I aspire to become an environmental engineer who travels globally, working with various communities to investigate and improve environmental systems. I plan to help countries transition to more sustainable practices. Throughout my college experience, I aim to build a strong foundation in engineering principles, gain hands-on experience through internships, and network with professionals who can help guide my career development.

What's the most important thing you brought with you from home?

The most important thing I brought with me from home is my determination to make a positive impact on the world. This mindset drives my academic pursuits and fuels my passion for finding sustainable solutions to pressing environmental issues.