Abdullah Elsaka will receive a Bachelor of Science in Criminology. He is an international student who grew up in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. He enrolled at Fresno State because his father graduated from the same university years ago and he wanted Elsaka to have the same opportunity. As a student, Elsaka was inducted into the COSS Honors Program and the Criminology Honors Program. He says he decided to major in criminology because law enforcement has always caught his attention. 

“Ever since I was a child, I have been in love with police work and human psychology. Criminology offers the perfect opportunity to study both simultaneously.”

Elsaka shared his academic experience at Fresno State in a Q&A.

What is your career goal? 

My career goal is to become an FBI agent. Deep down, I always knew that I wanted to do that; however, I did have some moments of indecisiveness. 

What do you think about the College of Social Sciences and our professors?

Our professors at Fresno state are well-known across the nation. I have never had a bad experience with a professor here. It feels like everyone is here to help you become what you want to become. 

Did you experience any challenges as a student?

Life as a student is not easy at all. I worked two jobs and attended Fresno State full time for the past year and a half. Sometimes, I stayed on campus for 14 hours straight. Other times, I worked double shifts then went home and did homework. I cannot deny all the challenges I faced, but I can embrace them and say there is definitely beauty in the struggle.

Abdullah 5What is your most memorable experience at Fresno State?

I have a lot of cherished moments at Fresno State, but my most memorable moments were meeting my best friend and being inducted into the COSS Honors Program and the Criminology Honors Program.

How do you feel about being recognized as an outstanding student?

I feel grateful that I am harvesting the fruits of all my hard work in the past 4 years.

How do you think COSS prepared you for the future?

COSS gave me a new perspective on life. I cannot say that I am the same person I was 4 years ago. I changed, mostly for the better. 

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?

I see myself working with law enforcement, having a master’s degree, and owning my own real estate business.

Abdullah 3
What is your advice for other students?

Keep pushing. College life gets very hard sometimes, but all the hard work will pay off eventually. All those college years will pass in the blink of an eye, make the best out of them!

“As an international student, what I pay a semester can put 3 in-state students in Fresno State for one semester I just want other students to cherish the opportunities they are given.