Humanities – Outstanding Senior 2020

Gary J. Petretto.Gary J. Petretto

San Jose, California

Degrees/Majors/Minors:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Humanities, emphases in music, communication/broadcasting, journalism

Clubs, Organizations, Leadership, and Service

  • KZUU Radio Station
  • Student Entertainment Board
  • WSU Concerts Board
  • WSU Concerts Committee
  • Opening performer for American singer Khalid
  • Mission work in Mexico and Guatemala
  • Community service hours in Pullman

Internships and Employment

  • Disc Jockey (DJ Otter) working for KZUU 90.7 FM, a student-run, non-commercial radio station. Fanbase for emerging artists, especially local ones
  • Student Entertainment Board – Spotlight Director
  • Sigma Kappa Sorority – Houseboy

Awards and Recognition

  • 2020 College of Arts and Sciences Outstanding Senior for Humanities

Faculty Comments

“As an advisee, Gary has demonstrated a conscientious attitude toward the completion of his degree at Washington State University. He has been very pro-active in making sure that the concentration areas for his Humanities degree will support his plans after graduation. This attitude in an advisee is very much encouraged and Gary has served as an outstanding representative of our department. His consistently collegial disposition and enthusiasm definitely speaks well of his character and made it a pleasure to serve as his advisor. I am certain he will be successful in any field he chooses!”  –Alma Rocha

Personal Statement

I want to give thanks to my friends and family, first and foremost, for helping me along my journey as a Washington State Cougar. I want to thank myself, as well, for having the ability to push through it all even when things got tough. Throughout my journey here I never knew what to expect—even when I expected something, I knew that something could change. That change brought me closer to newer friends, newer adventures, and a new family. Being in Pullman for the past four years prepared me for my new journey and made me realize one thing: No matter where I go, I will always find my way back home.

Honored Faculty and Mentors

  • Alma Rocha, academic advisor, Humanities and Social Sciences

Future Plans

Gary hopes to find work in broadcasting, radio, and podcasts, and he is also interested in music engineering. His long-term goal is to make a difference in the world, doing good for others. He believes it is important to have a good message and to consider things and people other than himself.