For Hannya Ornelas being named a Boise State University Top Ten Scholar represents more than academic achievement. It reflects years of personal growth, resilience and the willingness to embrace uncertainty while finding her path.
Ornelas, a nursing student and first-generation college student, said she initially chose Boise State because it allowed her to stay close to home while still experiencing the opportunities of a larger university.
“What really stood out to me was how many different programs and pathways were available,” Ornelas said. “I wasn’t completely sure what I wanted to do when I first started college, so having the flexibility to explore different options made a big difference for me.”
Over time, Boise State became more than a place to earn a degree. It became a community that helped shape her both academically and personally.
“Overall, my experience at Boise State has been incredibly meaningful,” Ornelas said. “I’ve built so many strong friendships that I know I’ll carry with me long after graduation.”
Throughout her time at the university, Ornelas pushed herself beyond her comfort zone through research, student involvement and campus leadership opportunities. Although research was not something she initially imagined herself pursuing, she said the experience became one of the most transformative parts of her education.
“Getting involved in research was something I never saw myself doing at first, but it ended up being such a valuable and eye-opening experience,” Ornelas said.
In addition to academics, she immersed herself in student philanthropy, clubs and campus events, experiences she said helped her build confidence, develop professional skills and feel more connected to the Boise State community.
“Those experiences broadened my perspective and helped shape who I am today just as much as my academics did,” Ornelas said.
She credits much of her success to the support she received from professors, classmates, friends and family throughout her journey.
“My professors especially have been so supportive and flexible with the many opportunities I’ve pursued outside of the classroom,” Ornelas said. “That support has allowed me to fully take advantage of everything Boise State has offered.”
Being named a Top Ten Scholar carries special meaning for Ornelas as a first-generation student.
“Being named a Top Ten Scholar means so much to me,” Ornelas said. “It’s something I’m really proud of, not just for myself but for my family as well.”
She hopes her recognition serves as encouragement for others who may feel uncertain about their future.
“I want people to see that it’s okay not to have everything figured out right away,” Ornelas said. “With hard work and support, you can find your direction and succeed.”
After graduation, Ornelas will begin her career as a cardiac intensive care unit nurse. Looking ahead, she hopes to eventually return to Boise State as a clinical instructor to mentor future nursing students while also pursuing her long-term goal of attending certified registered nurse anesthetist school.
For students beginning their own college journeys, Ornelas encourages them to stay open to new experiences.
“Say yes to opportunities,” Ornelas said. “Some of the best experiences come from stepping outside of your comfort zone.”
As she prepares for the next chapter of her career, Ornelas said she will carry the lessons, relationships and experiences from Boise State with her long after graduation.