ASU grad broadened his perspective at the Polytechnic campus

ASU students Leirbag Fajardo and Aki Olambiwonnu share a laugh while volunteering at the Borderlands Produce On Wheels With Out Waste event at the ASU Polytechnic campus

From left: Leirbag Fajardo and Aki Olambiwonnu share a laugh while volunteering at a Borderlands Produce On Wheels With Out Waste event at the ASU Polytechnic campus. Photo by Allie Barton.

By Hannah Moulton Belec |
May 20, 2019

Editor’s note: This is part of a series of profiles for spring 2019 commencement.

Throughout his time at Arizona State University, software engineering major Leirbag Fajardo combined his passion for technology with social concerns.

Outside of his coursework, Fajardo was involved with Barrett, The Honors College's GlobalResolve, a social entrepreneurship program that connects students with real-world projects that directly improve the lives of underprivileged people locally and globally, as well as Changemaker Central, helping run donation drives and organize events on ASU’s Polytechnic campus. He was also a program participant and a student worker for TRIO at the Polytechnic campus. TRIO is a set of federally funded programs to support low-income students, first-generation students, students with disabilities and veterans.

“My time at Changemaker Central at Poly has been one of the best experiences at ASU. I worked with a group of passionate students who love to help local communities,” he said. “We got to plan some of the best events at ASU. Of course, I’m biased, but I don’t care!”

Before graduating earlier this month, Fajardo spoke to ASU Now about his time as a Sun Devil and where he wants to go from here.

Question: Why did you choose ASU?

Answer: ASU had the resources for me to be successful in my field of study, while also applying challenges that make me feel like I will deserve my degree.

Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you, that changed your perspective?

A: That cultural diversity is really important to me.

Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?

A: Dr. Kevin Gary taught me valuable lessons and gave me broader perspectives in my field of study.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

A: I would encourage them to be outgoing and make as many friends as possible. Life’s too short to only focus on academics.

Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?

A: My favorite spot on campus was The Hub in the Polytechnic Student Union.

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: After graduating, I plan on pursuing personal projects that have been stalled due to other responsibilities.

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

A: With $40 million I would provide more resources and programs to students in K–12 that guide them into what degree or career they want to pursue in life.

Written by Sun Devil Storyteller Logan Maro, EOSS Marketing