Residence Life names Henry Zelenak as April Student of the Month

Henry Zelenak, of Berne, N.Y., has been named Student of the Month for March by the Office of Residence Life.

He was nominated for the award by Department of Computer and Information Sciences Professor Ziya Arnavut based on his strong academics and numerous contributions, highlighted by his passion for Sound Recording Technology and his 3.95 GPA.

A senior majoring in SRT with an instrument concentration in piano, and a minor in Computer Science, Zelenak is also a member of the Department of Computer Sciences Competition Team, Math Club, Ethos New Music Society (he composed a piece for Student Composers Concert 6), Geology Club, Tonmeister Association and a teaching assistant for Dr. Arnavut and Assistant Professor Shahin Mehdipour Ataee in the Computer and Information Sciences department.

When asked about his favorite things about Fredonia, Zelenak spoke of three topics. His first was the sense of community. “I have had great interactions with both students and faculty at Fredonia. Everyone that I have talked with has been friendly and open, making finding project partners and networking easy tasks.”

Zelenak’s second topic was the area. “Fredonia’s proximity to Lake Erie and the surrounding rural areas make it a great campus for nature lovers. I really enjoy visiting Canadaway Creek at many different places along its length.” Last but not least, Zelenak spoke of his professors. “I like that class sizes are small, and I can get to know my professors on a one-to-one basis.”

Zelenak will pursue a career in data science after graduating from Fredonia in May. He has been accepted to Syracuse University for a graduate program in Applied Data Science. Zelenak spoke of his future plans. “My undergraduate degree from Fredonia will continue to serve me as a solid foundation for my true passion, music. I want to keep my passion as a hobby and let it develop naturally, which is why I am leaning towards data science. But music, and my time spent at Fredonia, will never be forgotten.”

The Student of the Month program was implemented in 2003 to recognize students who are well-rounded, excel in their academics and contribute positively to the campus and community.