Nick Fortna

Sacramento State Center for Science and Math Success

BECAUSE I’M A CSU STEM VISTA…

I realized how much good can be done with the right support system.

All VISTAs have different projects and goals at their respective campuses, and we’re all many miles away from each other. Despite this, both VISTAs and leaders have put in the effort to create a network of support to give every VISTA a strong foundation to stand on. Because of the support system we’ve created, I’ve learned that we can always do more together. I hope to bring this culture and environment into all my future jobs.

My Favorite Part of CSU STEM VISTA...

Getting to work in such an incredible environment surrounded by great minds.

My campus site focuses on success for all STEM students, and I share an office full of faculty and staff that bring incredible ideas to accomplish this goal. I faced barriers entering the STEM field, but in this space I see new ways to dismantle them. It can be hard to keep up with all the incredible programs and their new initiatives, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to be in the middle of it all and give every bit of support I can.

My Typical Work Day

Depending on the current project that I’m working on, I’ll draw up the materials I’ve been given and work at my computer to finish the next draft to present to my supervisor at our next meeting.

Presently, I am working on a new edition of our newsletter to close out the semester. We use this newsletter to alert faculty, administration and staff of Success Center events and services. There are always opportunities to plan events to assist students (such as our recent chemistry diagnostic review session), marketing materials to draft and data to collect and analyze. It is never a question of “what” to do but more of what needs to be prioritized first. Overall this makes for a very exciting work environment.

The Best Part About My Campus

I chose to serve at Sac State because it was my home CSU campus.

I was a transfer student at Sac State and graduated with a degree in Biology in Spring 2019. Transferring was difficult initially, as I came in not knowing anyone and I didn’t know how to navigate the campus. While I was a student, I participated and worked in several of the programs offered to STEM students that assist those who are struggling with difficult science and math concepts. Through VISTA, I can give back my time to some of these programs that supported me and aided in my professional development. Best of all, I see familiar faces every day from professors to friends. At this university, I feel connected and supported.

Why I Serve with CSU STEM VISTA

I’m the type of person that finds it difficult to stay still for very long. I need to occupy my time with constructive things while always looking forward to a bigger goal.

I liked CSU STEM VISTA because I knew it was something I could excel at, and it would give me many options later down the road of my career and education. For many, including myself, VISTA is my first real full-time job commitment with real projects and deadlines. I consider myself lucky to be able to lock down that experience directly after graduating. It’s a fantastic opportunity!

One Moment That Stands Out

One moment that personally impacted me was our participation in the National Day of Service on 9/11.

As a VISTA, we all must serve for one day outside of our service site on September 11th. I chose to volunteer at a food bank for the day and distributed bread to those in need. It was memorable because it demonstrated how easy it is for anyone to help, even on short notice and with no prior experience. I served in remembrance to the events of 9/11, and in honor of all the people in New York and around the world that came together immediately to help in any way they could. It gave me pride that I was able to serve in solidarity for a day that changed America forever.

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