Veteran Voices

Javvi Avila

My name is Javvi Avila and I am a Marine Corps Veteran and a senior at CSUSM. I was active duty for one enlistment or four years and was stationed in Okinawa Japan and Camp Pendleton. I am majoring in Criminology and Justice studies. I am Mexican American and was born in Visalia, CA and raised in San Diego, CA. As a local I love going down to sunset cliffs, going for a hike at mission trails or taking a stroll in Balboa Park.

Dani Lúthien

I joined the Army beginning of 2017, worked as a cook. I didn't want it, but since I wasn't a citizen, there were not many options for me. Also we know how recruiters lie a lot. 
Anyway, I did basic training in Fort Jackson South Carolina, then AIT at Fort Lee in Virginia. Got stationed in Anchorage Alaska, Fort Richardson, which is actually a joint base with/managed by the Air Force. Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. JBER. I signed a 3 year contract, because my main reason for joining was to use the GI Bill after. Unfortunately, at the 2 years mark, I got medically discharged and went back home before expected. I still get to use my GI Bill though.

Emiliano Reyes

My name is Emiliano Reyes, I am an Army veteran. Currently, I am in my senior year at CSUSM studying Molecular Cell Biology. I am also involved in a research lab with Dr. Spady and former president of the Student Veteran Organization on campus. I also intern at a lab that tests patients for COVID-19.

Damon Stevens

Major: Criminology & Justice Studies BA (2016), Sociological Practice MA (2020)
Hometown: St. Louis, MO
Military Affiliation/Background: Retired from the United States Navy. Served from 1989-2013.

Jake Northington

CSUF graduate student c/o 2022:MS Higher Education
CSUSM Alumni c/o 2019: BA Visual & Performing Arts, Art & Technology
Minor: Ethnic Studies
Minor: Women's Studies
Palomar College c/o 2015: AA Liberal Arts
Hometown: East St Louis, Illinois
Military Affiliation/Background:  Retired USMC