Issabella Ampofo

Ghana

Master of Business Administration

What was your major (or field of study), and why did you choose it? 

I chose it to develop strong leadership and problem-solving skills for a future in education and tech.

What does graduating mean to you and your family?

A symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and a proud milestone for my entire family.

In what ways have you changed throughout your experience at Delta State?

I’ve become more confident, focused, and purpose-driven.

What are your plans now that you’ve graduated?

I plan to utilize my Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunity in the U.S.

In what ways have you changed throughout your experience at Delta State?

Living and studying in Delta State has taught me the true meaning of independence. Being in a different culture with people from various backgrounds helped me become more flexible and respectful of others' perspectives. I've also learned to push through challenges without giving up, which has made me mentally stronger.

What was your favorite thing to do on campus? Or a favorite memory?

One of my favorite memories was when I participated in a cultural event where I introduced Japanese culture to students. So many people stopped by my booth, asked questions, and showed interest. It was a powerful moment that reminded me how meaningful cross-cultural exchange can be.

What song will always remind you of this time in your life?

A song that always brings me back to this time is “Treasure” by Bruno Mars. It’s such a fun, upbeat song, and I often listened to it with my friends before going out or during campus events. Whenever I hear it, I’m instantly reminded of all the fun times we shared and how happy I felt during those moments.

What are your plans now that you’ve graduated?

After graduation, I plan to return to Japan and begin my career in the aviation industry. My ultimate goal is to become a pilot who can work internationally, ensuring that people from all over the world reach their destinations safely and comfortably.

In what ways have you changed throughout your experience at Delta State?

At Delta State, I have grown a lot—not just academically, but also personally. I have become more independent, confident, and focused on my long-term goals. I have also learned the value of teamwork and discipline, especially through my involvement in sports.

What was your favorite thing to do on campus? Or a favorite memory?

One of my favorite things was spending time with my teammates and friends at the tennis courts and student center. A favorite memory is winning the clinch match against CBU that gave me and my team a spot in playoffs. We celebrated afterwards and it was a special moment for me because it was the first time since 2019 that the women's tennis team made it to playoffs.

What song will always remind you of this time in your life?

"Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield and "Party in the U.S.A." by Miley Cyrus. Both songs capture the energy, freedom, and excitement I have felt during this chapter of my life.

What are your plans now that you’ve graduated?

After graduation, I plan to pursue an MBA in the United States. I want to keep growing both academically and professionally, and I believe earning an MBA will open even more doors for me in the sports and business world.

In what ways have you changed throughout your experience at Delta State?

Throughout my experience at Delta State, I became more mature and gained a deeper understanding of myself and the world around me. It helped me grow both personally and professionally, teaching me lessons that will guide me in life and in my future career.

What was your favorite thing to do on campus? Or a favorite memory?

My favorite thing to do on campus was going for walks and enjoying the little, seemingly meaningless things—like the quiet moments, the fresh air, and the simple beauty of the surroundings. Those walks gave me peace, time to reflect, and often became the most memorable part of my day.

What song will always remind you of this time in your life?

I have two songs : "Major" by Jekalyn Carr and "24 Songs" by Playboi Carti

What are your plans now that you’ve graduated?

Now that I’ve graduated, my plan is to find myself, be at peace, and continue growing into a better person. I want to become a philanthropist and use my success to help others. Most of all, I’m focused on becoming the best version of myself—personally, professionally, and spiritually.

Aaron Fernandes

India

Master of Business Administration

What was your major (or field of study), and why did you choose it?

I majored in general business in the MBA program. I came to Delta State to swim, and this seemed like the most well-rounded degree for me.

What does graduating mean to you and your family?

It means a lot. My parents are really happy. I will have the first master's degree in my family.

In what ways have you changed throughout your experience at Delta State?

I've become more social and confident and have made so many new friends.

What does graduating mean to you and your family?

It’s a milestone and an important step for what comes next.

In what ways have you changed throughout your experience at Delta State?

I’ve learned to value the time I spend with my friends more than ever before.

What was your favorite thing to do on campus? Or a favorite memory?

Going on a trip to Florida with everyone is my favorite memory.

What song will always remind you of this time in your life?

"Sky Again" by Arashi. This is one of my favorite songs.

What are your plans now that you’ve graduated?

I plan to prepare to become a pilot in Japan.

In what ways have you changed throughout your experience at Delta State?

Throughout my time at Delta State, both as an undergrad and grad student, I’ve become more confident, and much more appreciative of people’s different backgrounds and journeys. Playing soccer in the USA on different teams, I have managed to meet and stay friends with people from all over the world, and that’s something I’ll always remember.

What was your favorite thing to do on campus? Or a favorite memory?

Being a player for Delta State under coach Robertson as an undergrad student was a clear favourite for me. I loved representing this college each game and would do it all over again if the NCAA gave me my eligibility back! 

I also loved being the graduate assistant men’s soccer coach last fall. The group of boys myself and Head Coach Austin Jackman worked with were a pleasure to work with, and it was another good year for the men’s soccer program by getting into the playoff quarter finals.

Once a Statesman, always a Statesman!

What are your plans now that you’ve graduated?

I’ve managed to secure a job at Orlando City SC as a sales academy representative, and hope to have a long career working in the business side of professional soccer. - Pending OPT work authorization! 

Failing that, I’ll return to England and will look for a graduate job in the business industry.

Shumpei Kobayashi

Japan

Bachelor of Commercial Aviation

summa cum laude

What was your major (or field of study), and why did you choose it?

I majored in Aviation Management. I would love to be a pilot in Japan. Since I cannot have licenses or certifications to apply for Japanese airlines, I decided to major in Aviation Management instead of Flight Operations.

What does graduating mean to you and your family?

This is one of the biggest steps to me and my family. This graduation means the end of my school life. After graduation, I will start working and be more independent from my family.

In what ways have you changed throughout your experience at Delta State?

Friends here changed my school life positively. The number of Japanese is not that many here, and I have a lot of not only American students as friends but also international students. They gave me more perspectives and helped me grow up. This is one of the biggest advantages to come to the U.S. instead of staying in Japan.

What song will always remind you of this time in your life?

I don’t come up with a specific one now honestly. But I would say it’s “Welcome To The Black Parade.” One of my friends’ brothers told me about this song when I visited his house. The friend is one of my first friends here, and this is my memorable song for me here at Delta State.

Marc Mueller

Germany

Bachelor of Business Administration

What was your major (or field of study), and why did you choose it?

I majored in International Business, a field that combines my passion for global cultures with strategic thinking and innovation. I’ve always been fascinated by how businesses operate across borders and how cultural understanding can drive success in global markets.

What does graduating mean to you and your family?

Graduating is a huge milestone for me, it takes me a step closer to archiving my goals.

In what ways have you changed throughout your experience at Delta State?

Delta State helped me grow in confidence and independence. Living in a different country and being by myself pushed me out of my comfort zone. I’ve become more resilient, more open-minded, and more comfortable taking the lead in unfamiliar situations.

What does graduating mean to you and your family?

Graduating means a lot to me and my family. Completing something I started and worked hard for over the past four years makes both me and my family proud.

In what ways have you changed throughout your experience at Delta State?

Delta State has helped me mature, as it was my first time living abroad on my own. It has also taught me that I can overcome any obstacle independently, and I have gained valuable knowledge about different cultures.

What was your favorite thing to do on campus? Or a favorite memory?

My favorite memories include reaching the GSC finals with the soccer team and the little moments on campus, like having pleasant conversations with friends during lunch.

What song will always remind you of this time in your life?

“My Way” by Frank Sinatra

Samuel Wark

Scotland

Bachelor of Business Administration

cum laude

What was your major (or field of study), and why did you choose it?

My chosen major was General Business. I decided on this due to the range of opportunities that come along with a degree like this. I am hopeful to be employed in the business world and thought this major would help.

What does graduating mean to you and your family?

Graduation is a big thing for myself and my family! I am following in the footsteps of my parents and siblings. There was a time when university was not on my radar but I am glad to have taken the leap and reaped the rewards.

In what ways have you changed throughout your experience at Delta State?

My time at Delta State has seen me mature massively. The friendships I have made here have really made me value spending quality time with loved ones. The experiences I have had are some of the best of my life so far.