#StanGrad: Jayden Lopez Transforms Challenges into a Mission for Justice

Long before Jayden Lopez began envisioning a future as a criminal psychologist and FBI profiler, she was learning how to navigate challenges that would ultimately shape her purpose.

Living with a learning disability, managing anxiety and overcoming self-doubt taught Lopez lessons in resilience long before she stepped onto the Stanislaus State campus. Those experiences not only strengthened her determination to succeed, but they also inspired a passion for understanding human behavior and advocating for communities too often overlooked by the justice system.

When she arrived at Stan State from Salinas, Lopez found a supportive community that helped transform that passion into a calling.

The criminal justice major with a minor in psychology found herself drawn to understanding the complex factors that influence human behavior and the criminal justice system.

"My studies at Stan State strengthened my passion for exploring the psychological, social and biological roots of criminal behavior," Lopez said.

Lopez credits Criminal Justice Professor Jason Pourtaverdi and Associate Dean of Students Clarissa Lonn with helping her navigate some of the most challenging moments of her college journey.

"Their guidance shaped my academic journey in ways that extended far beyond the classroom," Lopez said. "They taught me how to trust myself and showed me that obstacles are not signs to stop, but opportunities to grow stronger."

Diagnosed with Auditory Processing Disorder as a teenager, Lopez worked diligently to develop strategies that would allow her to thrive academically while advocating for her educational needs. Rather than allowing those challenges to define her, she transformed them into motivation.

Her determination led to repeated recognition on the Dean's List and strengthened her commitment to understanding how criminal justice systems affect marginalized communities.

"Challenges such as my learning disabilities and membership in a marginalized ethnic group have significantly influenced my personal development, allowing me to transform adversity into strength," Lopez said.

The most important lesson Lopez says she learned at Stan State is simple: never give up on yourself.

"Growth often happens in the hardest seasons," Lopez said. "When things felt overwhelming, I discovered resilience I didn't know I had."

After graduation, Lopez plans to continue her education with the goal of earning a doctorate and building a career as an FBI criminal profiler and criminal psychologist. She hopes to study mental illness, criminal behavior and systemic inequities while helping create a more informed, compassionate and trauma-informed justice system.

"I want to use my degree to uplift the Central Valley and be part of the next generation of leaders who challenge injustice and strengthen our region through compassion, education and meaningful action," Lopez said.

#StanGrad File

What memories stand out most from your time at Stanislaus State?

"The memories that stand out most from my time at Stanislaus State are the ones that made the campus feel like home. In the smaller classrooms, I built genuine friendships and formed meaningful connections with instructors who truly cared about my growth."

Which faculty or staff member had the greatest impact on you, and why?

"The faculty members who had the greatest impact on me were Dr. Jason Pourtaverdi and Associate Dean of Students Clarissa Lonn. Their guidance shaped my academic journey in ways that extended far beyond the classroom and helped me develop resilience, confidence and a sense of purpose."

What advice would you give to current and future students?

"Trust your journey, even when it feels uncertain. If your path changes along the way, that's not a setback. It simply means life is guiding you toward something better."

Note: This article is part of the StanGrad series highlighting Stanislaus State students who are part of the Class of 2026. Read more StanGrad profiles.