By Jasmin Kharbouch Belkary
Each semester, the Dean’s List recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional, dedicated, and constant academic performance. It is a celebration of those who always gave it their all. Each name on the list has a different story of hard work, balance, and ambition, reminding us that excellence is achieved through discipline and passion.
Last semester, they proved that success is not just about intelligence; it is finding motivation during long study nights, balancing coursework with personal commitments, or drawing inspiration from supportive professors. Each student’s journey reveals a different path toward success. To be accepted on the Dean’s List, your GPA needs to be at least 3.5. In the paragraphs below, three Dean’s List students share their experiences, as a way to encourage other students to follow their example.
Anna Botova
How did you feel when you found out you made the Dean’s List?
I was really excited and honestly surprised! I didn’t expect it because I thought my GPA wasn’t as high as it turned out to be. It was also motivating to meet other students who worked hard and made it that far.
What helped you stay on track?
I always remind myself why I’m doing this and the future goals I want to reach.
It keeps me focused even when things get difficult. Still, motivation alone isn’t enough; discipline plays an equally important role in staying consistent and persistent.
What advice would you give to other students who are hoping to make the next Dean’s List?
Don’t leave anything until the last moment. Try to stay organized and dedicate a bit of time every day to your assignments. Professors really value honesty and hard work, so
communicate openly with them. CIS professors are always willing to collaborate and help you succeed.
How did you balance your studies with other responsibilities, such as work or the gym?
I plan my days well in advance, depending on my workload. For example, during midterms, I prefer going to the gym in the morning so I can study later without distractions. On lighter weeks, I go in the afternoon to clear my mind and then continue working on assignments.
Lola Marks
Is there a class, professor, or experience that especially inspired you this semester?
I would say Anthony Verrecchio, Tracy Wood, and Gabriel Ferrer. All three of these teachers have a very clear passion for teaching and really guided me and showed me how to achieve the best in their classes.
What motivates you to keep giving your best, even when things get tough?
Seeing all of my hard work pay off and really learning from the experiences.
If you could go back to the start of the semester, what would you tell yourself?
To not stress as much and do exactly as I’m doing.
Trino Luna
Looking back, do you still see it as something worth chasing?
I believe that chasing this list can not only help you open doors for your future, but it also helps you to become more educated and dedicated. It requires greater effort, which will be rewarded once you start working. You will understand that greater goals require greater dedication and effort.
Would you say the Dean’s List shaped your future ambitions – or did it just confirm who you already were?
I think that those on the list are people who make an effort to be the best, and this is really what being on the Dean’s List represents, so I think it simply helps to confirm who we really are.
If you could talk to your past self before making the Dean’s List, what would you tell them about what truly matters?
What I would say to myself is that beyond achieving a place on the list, you should do your best because the result is not always what you expect. The important thing is how hard you work to do what you want and usually those actions will be reflected sooner or later.
Do you think being on the Dean’s has a cost: mental health, social life, creativity?
Not really. The knowledge you gain by working hard and learning in order to get there can also contribute to a person’s emotional security, knowing that they are doing things the right way. That outweighs the cost.
The reflections of these students shows that academic success goes far beyond GPA scores.
It is built on resilience, curiosity, daily commitment to do better and passion for learning. The Dean’s List continues to celebrate those who prove that with dedication, overcoming challenges and having the right mindset, every goal is achievable, leading as an example for others. As these students continue to grow and inspire others, they remind us that with determination and the right mindset, excellence is never out of reach.