Members of the Fresno State student government play a crucial role in representing student interests and creating a connection between students, staff, and faculty. 

Here’s the College of Science and Mathematics senator, sharing his vision. 

Name: Virun Raj

Major/Program in CSM: Master of Biotechnology

Year in School: First-year graduate student

Background: 

I am a first-year graduate student in the Master of Biotechnology program. I graduated from Fresno State with a bachelor’s degree in biology in May 2023, during which I served as an ASI senator for the 2022-23 academic year. As a student who has lived in Fresno for nearly my entire life, I am very passionate and dedicated to serving the community that invested in me during my youth. I am keen to make a unique impact in STEM!

My Vision for the CSM:

As the ASI Senator for the CSM, my vision is three-pronged, with an emphasis on three areas: 

First and foremost, I aim to boost research opportunities and funding by creating a Student Research Center along with the Division of Graduate Studies and Research. I will raise awareness and inform my peers about existing research grants, internships, and scholarships. 

I’m also focused on using existing organizations, such as the Dean’s Student Advisory Council (DSAC), to foster connections between undergraduates, graduates, and faculty. This connection will amplify our ability to advocate for CSM-related interests alongside ASI. 

Next, I’m committed to enhancing student accessibility within the CSM. To foster a stronger sense of community, I’ll promote the creation of new STEM-related organizations. 

Moreover, I will work to recognize the diverse backgrounds of our student body, especially our international students. I will advocate for affordable housing as well as diversity and inclusion initiatives to ensure a safe, welcoming environment. 

Lastly, I plan to improve our core CSM curricula by advocating for relevant, skills-based coursework. Drawing from my experience in the Multicultural Subcommittee of the Academic Senate, I will continue to be a staunch advocate in these areas.

My dedication to serving our peers runs deep. I’m ready to elevate the CSM experience for all of us. Together, we can embark on a journey that allows us to invent, inform, and inspire! Thank you. 

What is ASI’s purpose?

The purpose of Associated Students, Incorporated (ASI) at Fresno State is to provide a means for responsible and effective participation in the governance of the campus and quality of the educational experience by:

• Providing an official voice through which student opinions are expressed through shared governance of the University.
• Assisting in the protection of student rights and interests of the student body.
• Stimulating the educational, social, physical, and cultural well-being of the University Community.
• Investing in and providing services and programs that meet the needs of students and the campus.

The above statement was taken from the ASI website. Click here to learn more about ASI.

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