Student Spotlight: Andrew Arroyo

(Nov. 11, 2024) -- On this Veterans Day, we share our continued gratitude with past and present military personnel for their service, which includes Fresno State agricultural business student Andrew Arroyo. 

Even though he didn’t have any agricultural background before becoming a Fresno State student, the Patterson (CA) native’s classes and recent internship with J.G. Boswell has encouraged him to set his sights on an ag accounting and financial analysis career.

He has also been active on campus with the Student Support Services Veterans program and the Ag Business/NAMA Club. Last year, he was even chosen by the department for the International Fresh Produce Association Career Pathways program to be mentored by industry professionals. 

Read more about his background and seven years of service with the Navy military police in this recent interview.

 

Q: Why did you choose to attend Fresno State, and how did you pick your major?

“I grew up in the Central Valley, and I truly did not appreciate it until I left to join the Navy. While I enjoyed traveling to different countries I truly felt at home here in the Valley surrounded by agriculture. I knew once I separated from the Navy, I wanted to be involved with agriculture in some way. I chose to attend Fresno State as an Agricultural Business major because of its strong reputation and excellent agricultural programs.” 

Q: When do you intend to graduate?

“I intend to graduate in Spring 2025.” 

Q: What do you consider your hometown?

“I grew up in the small town of Patterson, California also known as the ‘Apricot Capital of the World’. Not many people have heard of it, and it is about 18 miles west of Modesto.” 

Q: Did you have any other family members graduate or attend Fresno State?

“I am the first member of my family to attend a four-year university.” 

Q: What are some of the classes and faculty that have had the biggest influence on you while at Fresno State?

“Dr. Srinivasa Konduru and Dr. Annete Levi have had the largest impact on my education and agricultural experience during my time here at Fresno State. I was honored to be chosen by them to represent Fresno State for the International Fresh Produce Association Career Pathways program and the opportunity to attend the Fresh Produce and Floral Council Expo. This experience was my first real exposure to the ag industry and gave me confidence that I have chosen the right major.” 

 

Q: What was your background in agriculture before you started at Fresno State?

“While I was born and raised here in the Central Valley, I do not have a background in agriculture.  I come from a family of first responders and accountants. My introduction to agriculture began here at Fresno State.” 

Q: Describe any internships you've done at Fresno State, and how have they prepared you for your career path?

“I was an accounting intern this past summer at the J.G. Boswell Company, a tomato grower located in Corcoran, California. I was placed in the ranch accounting department that dealt primarily with accounts payable. My primary task was to track the planting location, tomato variety and tomato yield throughout the harvest season.  When I first began my journey into the agricultural field, I did not exactly know what I wanted to do. This internship gave me great insight and has helped me narrow down potential career paths.” 

Q: What clubs and organizations at Fresno State have you been a part of?

“I am a part of the Student Support Services Veterans program and the Ag Business/ NAMA Club.” 

Q: Have you received any scholarships related to campus, the Jordan College or Ag One?  

“I am thankfully to have received the Ag One Max and Verda Foster Memorial Scholarship.” 

Q: Give us a little more background on your military service.

“I enlisted in the United States Navy right after I graduated high school in 2015. I served for seven years as a Master-At-Arms, also known as Military Police. My first duty station was Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, a submarine base located in Washington state. While there I was assigned to the Harbor Patrol Unit and provided port security alongside the U.S. Marines for nuclear-powered submarines stationed there. My second duty station was Naval Air Station Lemoore. I became a Patrol Officer providing protection for the F/A-18 Super Hornets, on-base communities and responding to calls for service. My duties there included criminal investigations, domestic assault cases, medical and first aid responses.” 

Q: What’s your potential next career step(s)?

“My main area of interest is financial analysis and accounting, I intend to pursue a career in one of these fields.  However,  I am always seeking out any opportunities to learn, network, and possible internships in the agricultural field.” 

 

Q: Is there any crossover between the skills and education you gained from the military, and with your Fresno State academic program, and/or potential career path?

“When I became a non-commissioned officer in the Navy,  I began assuming a managerial position. This position helped me gain valuable leadership experience, personnel management and communication skills. I have been able to carry these skills over to student life here at Fresno State. These skills have helped me to become better at managing stress, multi-tasking and completing tasks on time.” 

 

Q: Are there any other important details about your service to add? 

“I am proud to have served, the United States Navy gave me some of the greatest experiences in my life. It has allowed me to meet people from various backgrounds, countries, and the ability to travel the world. When I think of veterans, I do not see myself, but all the men and women who have served before me and all the sacrifices they have made. Thank you to all the veterans that have fought for our country.”

 

Q: Have you overcome any challenges to get where you are today that have shaped who you are?

“After separating from the military, transitioning back into civilian life was difficult at first. Entering into a new environment, beginning college and becoming a father in the same year felt overwhelming at times. I am grateful for all the mentors, professors and advisors that have guided and helped me get to where I am today.”