Zach Hashemian ’24 embarked on his journey at Berkeley in the first grade and, since then, has been watching the school and his class grow and change. Although Hashemian has seen the buildings and facilities of Berkeley being torn down and reconstructed, one part of his environment stayed the same. Hashemian was constantly surrounded by a kind and supportive community, one that he emphasized throughout his welcome speech. 

ONE LAST WELCOME: After a year of leading the Upper Division convocation, Zach Hashemian starts off the Commencement ceremony. (Photo Credit: Lily Shirmohammad ’26)

Throughout his 12 years at Berkeley, Hashemian was involved in the Medical Science Club, Guides, Model UN and Student Forum. His favorite extracurricular was Model UN, which he joined during his junior year. Hashemian said, “The competitions were incredibly interesting and exciting, but more than that, the community I found in Model UN became my absolute favorite part and I only wish I found it earlier.” 

Another activity that impacted Hashemian was Student Forum, which he began serving on in seventh grade. As Student Forum President his senior year, Hashemian aimed to represent the needs of the entire Upper Division. Similarly, his speech represents his entire class, whom he describes as passionate, caring and determined to show their best selves. 

In his speech, Hashemian explained that the Class of ’24 is not defined by their universities or career paths. Instead, to represent his class, Hashemian gave examples of what his classmates have done, including initiating service projects, performing on the field or stage and supporting one another during the college admissions process. 

Hashemian ends his speech by declaring his class, “Berkeley’s Family of 2024.” Throughout their journey at Berkeley, Hashemian and his classmates have only grown closer and supported one another. He said, “Throughout all the ups and downs over the years, I am leaving Berkeley having built a family unlike any other and one that I will never forget.”

To read Zach’s speech, click here.