Golden State Today

The University Medal finalists of 2024, a diverse group of individuals, share a common thread in their narrative: they all began their academic journey at Berkeley in isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this challenge, each finalist found ways to create communities of study and service that were instrumental to their success.

Christopher Ying, the winner of the University Medal, along with finalists Lilly Etzenbach, Henry F. Isselbacher, Skylar Li Song and Bryce Wallace all had to overcome personal hardships ranging from difficult family lives and illness to being a woman in a male-dominated field.

These students attribute their ability to thrive despite these challenges to adaptability, compassion, humility and community - values they believe are representative of the Class of 2024 as a whole.

The University Medal was established 153 years ago in 1871. It is awarded to candidates who have achieved a GPA of 3.96 or higher while overcoming significant challenges and making a positive impact on the lives of others.

This year's finalists include Lilly Etzenbach who held leadership and research positions related to space exploration during her undergraduate studies at Berkeley. She plans on pursuing graduate studies at MIT focusing on optimized space systems for exploring the universe.

Henry F. Isselbacher majored in economics and public health with a minor in public policy. He served as Chief Financial Officer for the Associated Students of the University of California (ASUC) among other roles. He plans on taking a year off before attending law school.

Skylar Li Song majored in art practice with a minor in creative writing. They founded Digital Illustration and Concept Art at Berkeley and plan on taking a medically necessary break while continuing work as a freelance artist before attending grad school.

Bryce Wallace majored in English and linguistics. He volunteered at McClymonds High School in Oakland among other activities. He plans on pursuing his Ph.D. in English at Yale University.

These students' stories of resilience and adaptability serve as a testament to the character of the Class of 2024, a class that has faced unprecedented challenges due to the global pandemic.