Graduate Ambassador Profiles
Thalita Calzzetta
M.S. Business Analytics
Hello! I’m Thalita, a graduate student in Business Analytics currently in my second semester. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering in Brazil in 2021, where I discovered my passion for numbers and, surprisingly, for finance.
I’ve been living in San Francisco for about a year, so I understand the challenges of leaving home and a stable job to start a new chapter. I can honestly say that choosing SF State has been one of the best decisions I’ve made.
Meeting new people, experiencing a different culture, and exploring a new environment has been incredibly rewarding. Every challenge has helped me grow, and I’ve built friendships and memories that I know will stay with me for years.
In my free time, I enjoy playing my acoustic guitar, walking my dogs, riding my bike, and, most of all, spending time with my partner and friends. I love cooking for them, and we always enjoy playing board games together.
I’m here to support you as you begin your academic journey and to answer any questions you may have about the university, the Bay Area, or the community. Feel free to reach out. I’m looking forward to meeting you and helping you along the way!
Cody Putz
M.A. Creative Writing
Hello! My name is Cody Putz, and I am a graduate student in the Creative Writing M.A. here at SFSU! I received my B.A. in Anthropology from UCSC in 2022, and I am passionate about education, storytelling, and history. Outside of school I can often be found taking long walks while listening to audiobooks or drinking tea with my cat on my lap.
As a queer student, I am deeply familiar with the hardships that come with being LGBTQ+ in academia. I strive to provide a safe space for students of all identities to find support, strength, and community. I have also worked as a Graduate Pedagogical Apprentice in the Creative Writing Department, and I would love to tell you all about it!
You are welcome to reach out to me regarding any of your questions or concerns about the graduate experience here at SFSU. You belong here!
Erica Tate
M.S. Biology (Cell & Molecular)
Hi everyone! My name is Erica Tate, and I am currently a second-year master's student in the Cell & Molecular Biology program at San Francisco State University.
I earned my B.S. in Biology with a concentration in Physiology, a minor in Computer Science Applications, and a certificate in Data Science and Machine Learning for Biotechnology from SFSU. I currently conduct research in the Health Equity Research Lab, where I study how chronic stress may contribute to prostate cancer disparities among Black men. My long-term goal is to become a physician-scientist focused on addressing health disparities that impact underserved communities.
Graduate school has been both exciting and challenging, and I know firsthand that navigating research, classes, and life can sometimes feel overwhelming. Throughout my time at SF State, I've been involved in research, mentoring, and STEM outreach, all of which have reinforced my passion for building community and helping students succeed. Outside of school, I enjoy cooking, reading, crafting, visiting museums, trying new restaurants, and spending time with family and friends.
Whether you have questions about graduate school, finding research opportunities, navigating campus resources, or just want someone to talk to, I'm always happy to help. I look forward to meeting you and helping make your graduate experience at SF State a positive one. Welcome to the Gator community!