EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the fourth in a series of profiles on GCU's Ingram Honors College Student Advisory Council.
Grand Canyon University was an easy choice for marketing and advertising junior Analyiah Zavala after attending a private Christian high school.
The Phoenix native wanted to continue studying in a Christian environment and stay close to home, so when it came to choosing a college, her decision was easy.
From club soccer to various Colangelo College of Business clubs, Zavala has made the best use of her time in college, but the list doesn’t stop there.
She will serve as the professional and leadership development co-director for the Ingram Honors College Student Advisory Council in the 2026-27 academic year.
1. What is one of your favorite memories with Ingram Honors College?
I can’t remember the situation, but I just remember Dr. Marette (Hahn, Ingram Honors College director) and Dr. Bre (Naegeli, dean) getting pied in the face at one point. Just straight whip cream to the face. I can’t remember exactly why that happened, but it was so funny.
2. If you had a college named after you, which one would you choose?
Without a doubt, I spend most of my time at the Colangelo College of Business, so I would pick CCOB. All my classes are there, a lot of my clubs are in there. It’s my home. If I were to have it named after me, at least I would be there 100% of the time.
3. As a Phoenix native, what are your best tips for surviving the brutal heat?
You have to own multiple swimsuits because swimming is a must in Arizona. Always have summer clothes because pants during the summer will never be the right choice. Also, always keep at least a 40 oz.-size water bottle on you to stay hydrated.
4. What is something you always need to have in your backpack?
My planner. I have to have my planner at all times. Other two things are ChapStick and a snack, no matter what.
5. Chick-fil-A is one of the most popular eateries on campus. What is your supreme meal at Chick-fil-A?
Definitely get a kid’s meal. Switch out the French fries for mac and cheese. Switch out the kid’s toy for an ice cream cup and add chocolate sauce to that.
6. If you were building a new home for a college, what is a feature in the building you would have to have?
I would have a little snack bar on every floor – not vending machines because that is lame, but full snack bars. I would have some type of popcorn, and I feel like we’d have to have candy. So, popcorn, candy and chocolate milk, of course. Sounds like a good snack board for a movie night.
7. If you could be Thunder or President Brian Mueller for a day, who would you choose?
I would be Thunder. I would just walk around and do a bunch of crazy things, and I wouldn’t even have to say anything.
8. You’ve played soccer since you were 6. If you could play in the Women’s World Cup, what team would you play for?
I would play for the U.S. team. A lot of the players on the team have inspired me throughout my soccer journey, and it would be amazing to play alongside them. Plus, they’ve won many World Cups, unlike the men’s team.
9. How do you want to be remembered as a leader?
I want to be a leader that everyone feels confident they can come to – someone that can help others whenever that is needed, be open to talk to as a friend and can direct people in the best way possible.
GCU staff writer Izabela Fogarasi can be reached at [email protected]
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