Julian Sandoval would not trade his time at Wayne State University for anything. A Detroit native, he graduated from University of Detroit Jesuit High School and realized Wayne State would provide him the opportunity for success in his college career. He recently received the Gary and Kathryn Armstrong Annual Scholarship to help with his education expenses.

Why did you decide to come to WSU?
​Growing up in Detroit, at first going away to college looked very attractive to me. I was accepted to another school out of state, but when I realized how much it would cost to go there, I knew I could not afford it. I also had been accepted to Wayne State and, looking back, it was the best thing that could have happened to me. I have really enjoyed my time here.

How did financial aid factor into your decision?
My mother raised my older sister and me as a single parent. Always our inspiration, she taught us to work hard, be confident and never quit. I was able to attend University of Detroit Jesuit High School through scholarships, and I have had several scholarships during my time at Wayne State.

What year are you in?
I am a senior in the School of Business Administration. I walked through graduation ceremonies this May and will officially receive my degree upon completion of my capstone project in August.

What is your major?
I am a business management major with a minor in public relations.

Why is the Gary and Kathryn Armstrong Annual Scholarship important to you?
Without scholarships, I would not have been able to go to college. I feel so honored to have people I don't even know help to finance my education. I will never forget the Armstrongs' wonderful gesture of generosity and kindness, and I will always be thankful to them. I will do all I can to be successful and worthy of their investment in me.

Scholarships at the Wayne State University School of Business Administration make a difference. Watch and learn more.

What do you like best about WSU?
There is a lot to like about Wayne State. The smaller class sizes and personal connections with my professors are great. The teachers I have had really care about their students. They know my name. I've talked with friends who have gone away to school who say they feel only like an ID number. I also enjoy the diversity of students. I have met such interesting people from many different backgrounds. My own background is quite diverse as I have a Japanese, Mexican and African-American heritage.

What is your favorite class?
I've had so many good classes and teachers, it is hard to single any out as my favorite. Many of my professors are industry professionals who teach how things are being done in the business world right now. I am taking a class in collective bargaining with Dr. James Martin this semester and the second half of the class is simulations. We are expected to apply immediately what we are learning. It's a powerful class.

Are you involved in any student groups or other campus activities?
I have always worked in addition to taking classes so my time has been limited. In my sophomore year, I assisted at What Box, a student-run ad agency in TechTown, the university's business incubator. I enjoyed that experience. I also had an unpaid internship at ePrize, an ad agency in Royal Oak. I am proud to say that has turned into a paid internship position at the company, and I am hoping they will offer me a full-time position after graduation.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
Taking classes, working up to 20 hours a week, homework and getting some exercise doesn't leave me a lot of spare time. But when I can relax, I am a sports junkie, watching the local professional teams on TV.

(May 13, 2013)