Meet PVAMU’s Class of 2028: These first-year students are ready to change the world

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (Aug. 27, 2024) – As the new academic year begins, Prairie View A&M University is excited to welcome the Class of 2028. Among the incoming 2,000-plus students are five exceptional individuals who bring a wealth of talent, ambition, and dedication to our campus. Their diverse backgrounds and aspirations reflect the spirit of innovation and service that defines our University community. Here is a peak of the Class of 2028.

Kristopher Moore: Aspiring Entrepreneur in Renewable Energy

Kristopher Moore, a graduate of Harmony School of Discovery in Houston, Texas, is ready to make a significant impact in the field of mechanical engineering. With a passion for renewable energy, Kristopher plans to start his own company, providing sustainable energy solutions to millions while minimizing environmental harm.

“Being an entrepreneur speaks to me because I want to achieve great things while not being limited by someone over me. I strive to have full creative and innovative freedoms,” Kristopher said.

His impressive high school career includes being in the top ten of his class, earning the title of AP Scholar, and receiving the National African American Recognition Award. Kristopher is also a talented photographer, with 13 awards from the Viewbug photography website, and a committed volunteer, recognized with the Chick-fil-A First 100 Volunteer Award for his work with the Children Like Loni organization.

Philip Onyedikachi Ugochukwu: Future General Practitioner with a Heart for Community

Philip Onyedikachi Ugochukwu, from Gulfport High School in Gulfport, Mississippi, is set to pursue a biology degree with the goal of becoming a general practitioner. His interest in the medical field is driven by a desire to combine social interaction with the science of medicine, allowing him to make a tangible difference in his community.

“My major accomplishment was being inducted into the Admiral Hall of Fame, which seeks to immortalize a select few students who have exhibited integrity, passion, and a keen attitude,” Philip proudly shared.

Philip’s commitment to community and health care is sure to make him a compassionate and effective medical professional in the future.

Elana Danielle Valenzuela: English Major with a Passion for Law

Elana Danielle Valenzuela, an English major from Pineville High School in Pineville, Louisiana, is on a mission to become an attorney-at-law. She believes that her English degree will equip her with the critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills necessary for a successful legal career.

Her love for reading classic literature sparked her interest in law, and her dedication to social justice is evident in her plans to create programs that support victims of sexual and domestic violence. Elana’s motto, “service over self,” reflects her commitment to making a positive impact through her future career.

Elana’s high school achievements are numerous: she fundraised $1,600 for her football team to earn a spot on the Homecoming Court, where she was later elected Homecoming Queen. As Editor-in-Chief of her school newspaper, she led the team to win a second-place award from the Louisiana Scholastic Press Association. One of her most transformative experiences was representing Louisiana at the American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation, where she engaged in legislative debates and envisioned her future as a catalyst for change.

Joshua Owens: Architecture Enthusiast with Big Dreams

Joshua Owens, a Regents’ Merit Scholar from DeSoto High School in DeSoto, Texas, is pursuing a degree in architecture with the goal of one day opening his own firm. His passion for design and the practical application of art is what drives him to succeed.

“I love this career because it dives deep into the practical aspects of art itself and how it will serve in our everyday lives,” Joshua explained.

In high school, Josh was an active participant in the Business Professionals of America and the National Honor Society, experiences that have prepared him well for the challenges and opportunities ahead in his architectural studies.

Natalie Novelle: Nursing and Law Aspirant with a Vision for Change

Natalie Novelle, a graduate of Texas Connections Academy in Houston, Texas, an online high school a part of Houston ISD, has set her sights on a future where she can make a difference in both health care and the legal system. Initially ecstatic to receive a Regents’ Merit Scholarship, Natalie’s excitement grew when she was offered one of only two prestigious Gaines-Holland Scholarships given to the incoming freshman class at PVAMU.

“I intend to make the most of my surreal reality, and, before I leave ‘The Hill,’ I hope to aid in the passage of legislation, whether that be locally or statewide,” Natalie shared.

After earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a minor in political science from PVAMU, Natalie plans to pursue a career as a registered nurse while simultaneously completing a JD program and sitting for the bar exam. Her ultimate goal is to work pro-bono as an attorney, representing those mistreated by the legal system, while also considering a future in political advocacy.

Though proud of her academic accomplishments, Natalie’s greatest pride comes from her community service. During her final two years of high school, she volunteered at her regional hospital and animal shelter, earning the 2023-2024 United Nations Association National Community Service Award. Additionally, she worked as a full-time caregiver for dementia patients during her senior year, a role that deepened her commitment to helping others in every possible way.

These students represent the promise and potential of PVAMU’s Class of 2028. Their stories remind us of the importance of ambition, creativity and a commitment to serving others. As they begin their journeys at PVAMU, we look forward to seeing how they will contribute to our community and our world.

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