Titans of Empowerment

Makar Makarian immigrated to the U.S. with little more than a dream to be the first in his family to go to college.

After enrolling at Cal State Fullerton as a transfer student in chemistry, faculty mentors encouraged him to engage in hands-on research to improve cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. This gave him the knowledge and confidence to apply to graduate school.

Makar’s lab and research experience opened doors to pharmacy school and advanced his ultimate goal of working in the field of medicinal chemistry.

Cal State Fullerton empowers undergrads with real-world research and learning experiences to prepare them for future careers or graduate schools.

Having experienced anxiety, Asha Bhattacharya understands firsthand the importance of mental wellness.

The Cal State Fullerton marketing student dreamt of creating a “gym for the mind” on campus — a place where students could train their brains and proactively cultivate mental toughness.

Asha’s participation in the President’s Scholars leadership program for high-achieving students encouraged and empowered her to pitch an idea to CSUF President Fram Virjee.

Impressed by her vision, the president sanctioned a new student wellness room that is scheduled to open in 2022.

Now a proud Titan graduate, Asha continues to advocate for mental wellness in her management role at Amazon.