#StanGrad: Eryka Lepper Builds Confidence and Campus Pride Through Student Government

While pursuing her bachelor's degree, some of the most meaningful moments at Stanislaus State for Eyrka Lepper began when she decided to step beyond the classroom.

A business administration major with a concentration in management from Atwater, Lepper completed her undergraduate degree with a 4.0 GPA. During her first two years of college, she said she mostly kept to herself, focusing on academics and building connections with classmates and professors. By her junior and senior years, she wanted more from her college experience.

"I wanted to branch out and create memories beyond the classroom," Lepper said.

That desire led her to Associated Students, Inc. student government, where she found confidence, connection and purpose. Lepper said the experience became one of the best decisions she made in college.

"My time in student government gave me some of my most rewarding experiences because it's where I built my confidence, met incredible people and truly stepped outside of my comfort zone," she said.

Lepper credits her business professors and ASI staff for making the biggest impact on her experience, noting that they were part of her day-to-day life and offered some of the best professional advice she received.

Her leadership also inspired those around her. Miranda Gonzalez, ASI student government assistant, described Lepper as driven, passionate and hardworking, with an unwavering commitment to excellence.

"She approaches challenges with confidence and resilience, embracing each opportunity as a chance to grow and make a meaningful impact," Gonzalez said. "Her leadership is not only defined by her achievements, but by the way she inspires and uplifts those around her."

As president of Associated Students, Inc., Lepper made it a priority to share her Warrior pride with the entire student body and help foster a sense of unity and purpose across campus. Her journey also reflects the lesson she hopes other students take to heart: it is never too late to get involved.

"My experience shows that it's never too late to get involved on campus," Lepper said. "No matter when you start, it will be worth it in the end."

Her decision to attend Stan State was rooted in a special connection to the University that spans generations.

"I chose to attend Stan State because it's where my parents met, fell in love and got engaged. I wanted to continue their legacy by earning my degree at the same place they did."

Lepper plans to pursue a career in construction management, with a goal of helping build stronger communities in the Central Valley. She said Stan State taught her the importance of believing in her own vision and giving full effort to the goals she sets for herself.

"One of the most powerful things I learned during my time at Stan State was how important it is to give 100% to the goals and dreams you set for yourself," Lepper said. "At the end of the day, you're the one who has to believe in them first."

#StanGrad File

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

"The memories that stand out most to me are the ones where I pushed myself to get more involved on campus. My time in student government gave me some of my most rewarding experiences because it's where I built my confidence, met incredible people, and truly stepped outside of my comfort zone."

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

"All faculty and staff had an impact on me in one way or another, but I'd say my business professors and ASI staff made the biggest difference. They were the most involved in my day-to-day life and gave me some of the best professional advice."

What advice would you give to current and future students?

"Believe in yourself and challenge yourself to do at least one thing during your time in college that you never thought you could. Those are usually the moments that matter most and the ones you don't want to look back and wish you had taken."

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.