Spotlight: SDSU Fowler 2020 Grads
Spotlight: SDSU Fowler 2020 Grads
Congratulations to the SDSU Fowler College of Business Class of 2020! This page will be updated regularly with new spotlights on some of this year's graduating seniors. Are you graduating in May? We want to highlight YOU! Fill out this Google Form if you're interested in being featured.
Breanna Alvarez (Marketing)
Most Influential Faculty Members:
Prof. Osinski & Prof. Ehrich
Favorite SDSU Memory:
My understanding professors!
Breanna Alvarez Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: My second daughter was born two days after the start of the fall semester of my junior year and all of my professors were extremely understanding and offered to give me extra time on all of our assignments. That really showed me how much the school cares about their students on an individual level. That was a hard semester for me, but they made it a little less stressful.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The little pond by West Commons. It’s such a peaceful area.
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Oh that’s a hard one. I think I have to call it a tie between Professor Osinski and Professor Ehrich. They both care so much about their students’ success and want to get to know them all on an individual level. Both of them have helped me in both my personal and professional life and I am so grateful to both of them.
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: Don’t be afraid to go with the risky choice every once in a while and always bet on yourself.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: It’s okay to struggle and it’s okay to have setbacks. Just remember to stand back up and keep pushing forward. Always be working on becoming the best version of yourself that you can be. And please, please, please, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: I graduated high school 10 years ago and joined the military afterwards so I started college late, which came with it’s own struggles, but I think what I’m most proud of is making it through while being a mom. My girls are both my biggest challenge and my biggest motivation.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: I’m still searching for a job right now, but I’m really hoping to get a position at an ad agency in the near future.
Jeannette Burkard (Business Admin)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Professor Sloan
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Meeting all my friends!
Jeannette Burkard Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: All the friends I made!
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: Oggi’s with my friends
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Professor Sloan made every class interesting even after we went online for virtual learning.
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: Just keep going.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Enjoy every second, it goes by fast!
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: Passing my Stats class!
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: Opening a small business in San Diego!
Nina Capuani (Marketing - IMC)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Sunaina Chugani-Marquez
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Aztec football and basketball games!
Nina Capuani Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: There are way too many to count, but I will always remember the fun I had going to Aztec football and basketball games.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The koi pond!
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Sunaina Chugani - She is such a positive and inspiring woman.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: Women in Business, KCR College Radio, and Club Beach Volleyball.
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: You can do anything you put your mind to.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Don’t be afraid to try new things and get involved. You can make great friends and find amazing opportunities just by putting yourself out there!
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: Being an Executive Board member for Women in Business. This was the first year it was on campus, and I am proud that I was able to help start it!
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: After graduation I will starting my career working as an Area Manager for Amazon in San Diego.
Jose De La Torre (Finance)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Jeff Probst
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Hanging out in the 24/7 section
Jose De La Torre Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Hanging out in the 24/7 library studying with mates hoping to all pass finals.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The SDSU Aztec lanes and Rec center.
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Jeff Probst is a down to earth professor. He cared for students and wanted everyone to learn the material the right way. His attention to detail couldn’t be compared with other professors.
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: Don’t stop studying and learning go get more certifications and always want more - Kamal Haddad.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Try to enter the workforce at least one year before you graduate. The social skills and people skills go a long way and it will prepare you for future interviews.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: Being a first generation immigrant from Mexico and only person in my family to ever graduate college. That’s what I am most proud of.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: I hope to land my dream work working in finance such as a financial analyst, business analyst or any sort of accounting/finance combo.
Kaitlin Glasl (Marketing)
Advice to Incoming Students:
Get involved early on
Favorite Spot on Campus:
Student Union Third Floor
Kaitlin Glasl Q&A
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: Student union third floor
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: President of the American Marketing Association
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: Get involved early on to narrow down what you are looking for in a career.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Make strong connections with anyone you can. You never know what doors can be opened for you by meeting the right person!
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: I have received a job offer from PepsiCo as a Sales Management Associate and plan to start full-time in June.
Farzan Khoobchehr (MIS)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
All of my professors!
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Sitting on the grass, looking at the pond
Farzan Khoobchehr Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Sitting on the grass, looking at the pond and enjoying the beautiful weather
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The grass field in front of the pond.
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: All my professors. They taught me so many valuable lessons which will be useful in the long-term.
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: A typical college student tends to underestimate the challenges and sufferings they will face in the future. Be realistic and rational and prepare to face them now.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Be mindful of who you're associated with.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: Graduate school!
Jiaqi Li (Finance)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Professor Frank Ryan
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Making Ukrainian traditional dishes with friends
Jiaqi Li Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Making traditional Ukrainian dishes with friends from 5 different nations and learning different cultural standpoints.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The rocking chair at Student Union, third floor. Maybe with a burrito from Rubio's.
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Professor Frank Ryan. Time seems to fly faster in his class. It is fascinating not only to learn Cobb–Douglas production function from slicing a melon but also to apply what we learned into real-life. Beacon Simulation project is a good practice to integrate different course materials. Dr. Ryan is not only a knowledgeable professor but also a great mentor and close friend for his students. Be sure to check his office hour, I can always explore something new.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: I hosted conferences by the Lavin center: Talk with Founder of Rubio's, Founder of Monster Cable, and Founder of Shake Smart.
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: YOLO, living in the moment and enjoying the moment.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Be proactive; go explore.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: Made lifetime friendships!
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: Participating in a Master of Science in Enterprise Risk Management program at Columbia University!
Agnes Macahilas (Master of Business: Marketing)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Professor Miro Copic
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Creating lifelong friends!
Agnes Macahilas Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Creating lifelong friends in the MBA Program and celebrating the end of semesters at Eureka!
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The turtle pond. Walks about there are always peaceful and enjoyable.
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Professor Copic taught my favorite course of Strategic Brand Management. He was always so enthusiastic and passionate about sharing his knowledge and marketing experience with his students. I also really appreciated Tina Tan as a career advisor. Every time I met with Tina, she genuinely cared and motivated me along my job search journey. She is an awesome staff member that FCB students are lucky to go to as a resource!
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: SDSU NAWMBA - National Association of Women MBAs
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: "It's not about who you know, but who knows YOU. You can meet an infinite amount of people during your time in college but it is important to keep in mind on how you want to make a lasting first impression and reputation."
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Make the most out of your SDSU experience by connecting with other students in organizations you are interested in and networking with your Professors and career advisors. They will give you valuable insight you will find helpful down the road. Oh, and always look both ways before crossing the bike lanes in the center of campus! :)
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: Continue my job search for a marketing career that fosters growth, teamwork, and creativity.
Catherine Miranda (Marketing)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Can't Choose Just One!
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Co-facilitating the WIEL conference panel!
Catherine Miranda Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: My favorite SDSU memory would be sitting on stage co-facilitating the WIEL conference panel with Dr. Honea and looking into the crowd and seeing my parents. They flew in from San Jose to see me speak on stage and it really meant the world to me to have that opportunity to make them proud.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The turtple pond.
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: I've had the pleasure of working with so many influential staff and faculty that I couldn't choose just one!
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: Intramural basketball (a few games only!!) with APHIG, Fashion Talent Show (FTS) with APSA, Student Assistant at the High Tech Center, Special Events Intern with Fowler College, President and Founder of Women in Business
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: Don't walk away from college with only the degree in your hand. Get the MOST of your college life and all that it has to offer. Squeeze every opportunity and experience you can possibly get out of it. From the events, the concerts, the resources, the networking, the career fairs... all of that. The grades matter, of course, but college is such a great place to GROW.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Try new things! This is the time to explore new avenues and paths. Go to different events, meet people different than you, go to club meetings... everything! You will find something that sticks and you will be glad you went for it.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: I am most proud of founding Women in Business and successfully passing the organization down to a new wave of leaders. I spent the year with the most amazing WIB team and members I could have possibly asked for.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: After graduation, I will work to become a C-suite level executive or an entrepreneur. My dream company is the Walt Disney Company. However, my ultimate goal is to give back to my family who immigrated from the Philippines for me to be here and to inspire others to grow and create positive change in the world.
Sergio Ortiz (MIS)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Professor Tanya Hertz
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Getting through Fall 2019 semester
Sergio Ortiz Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Once I got through my Fall 2019 semester I felt a huge weight got lifted off my shoulders. It was one of my most difficult semesters, but I was able to pull through. I can still remember the satisfaction and relief both my friend and I felt after getting through the semester.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The cement steps infront of the Trolley station. It's always pretty calm and not too packed with people. It's a good place to relax in-between classes.
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Tanya Hertz because of her inspiring speeches on leadership and empathy towards colleagues. Her interactive group activites were also fun and impacting. I enjoyed how her lectures looked at the "bigger picture" and the passion that professor Hertz displayed for the topics she discussed.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Network Network Network. Many of the people you'll come to meet might one day be your coworkers, employers, or maybe even your spouse! Building these relationships early on will open more opportunites for you down the road. You might get tired of hearing and seeing posters and emails about the importance of networking, but it's something that should not be undervalued and overlooked during your time at SDSU.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: Juggling school and work. I'm considered an integral part of my company's IT department and it's been hectic managing work projects and client's technical issues while also doing school work. There have been several times I wanted to quit my job because of the stress, but I'm proud to say I was able to complete my degree program while maintaining my employment.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: My next goal would be to land a job as a Security Analyst (preferably for the government) and dwelve deeper into the rabbit hole of security. I'll also be looking at learning penetration testing techniques and Python. In general, I aim to keep learning as much as I can while maintaining my sanity. Information technology is constantly changing every day so I'll have to keep working to stay current with the latest technological developments.
Alexe (Finance)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Professor Kamal Haddad
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Going to all the basketball games
Alexe Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Going to all the basketball games.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: Storm hall patio
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Kamal haddad. He is so supportive and an a great leader.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: Women in Business
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Get involved!
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: First generation college grad
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: Hopefully a job in the finance field.
Tess Smolders (Finance)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Professor Valerie Alexandria
Favorite SDSU Memory:
So many amazing memories!
Tess Smolders Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: I have so many amazing memories at SDSU from getting recognized on the football field for Dance Marathon, very late night study sessions with friends, attending different SDSU events, to exploring San Diego! I can't pick an absolute favorite!
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The union courtyard sitting in the sun either getting work done or spending time with friends!
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Professor Valerie Alexandra! She is such a smart, knowledgable, and passionate professor. Every lecture was interesting and engaging because her enthusiasm and passion truly shows when she teaches. She is always so encouraging to everyone and makes sure to push us to understand the material. She was very influential to me because she believed in me as a student and as an individual. She wants all her students to succeed and is very encouraging when it comes to pursuing our dreams and becoming successful.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: I have had multiple internships and jobs throughout my time at SDSU. I was involved in Greek life as a member of Kappa Delta Sorority for four years and had multiple leadership roles in my chapter including Vice President of Membership Education. Additionally, I was involved in Dance Marathon at SDSU for four years! For my first two years, I was a participant and eventually made it onto the Executive Board to become Vice President of Finance my senior year!
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: "You get out what you put in." This applies to almost every aspect of life, especially life in college. Every class you take, organization you join, or friend you'll make, you will only get out what you put in yourself. Make the best of it, but don't overwhelm yourself and surround yourself with genuine people.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Don't be afraid to try new things! Step out of your comfort zone and meet new people or become involved in organizations! SDSU has so many amazing things that students can be a part of! This is the time to explore and find your passions and find those life long friends. Through joining different organizations you will find your people. It might take some time, but you WILL find your community. Explore everything that SDSU has to offer!
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: I am extremely proud to have met so many amazing people and learn so much about myself throughout my time at SDSU, but what I am most proud of is my time as Vice President of Finance for Dance Marathon. Raising over $365,000 for Rady Children's Hospital through Dance Marathon at SDSU this past year, and seeing over 500 SDSU students come together to do good in the community has truly inspired me and will continue to do so.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: I plan to attend graduate school to obtain a Masters in Business Administration in California. Eventually, I want to work for a Hospital as an executive. I also aspire to travel the world to see and experience as many amazing things as possible.
Natalie Wilson (Business Management)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Professor Valerie Alexandria
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Making friendships that will last a lifetime!
Natalie Wilson Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Can’t pick a favorite, just meeting all the amazing people you come across everyday and they end up being friendships that will last a lifetime.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: I’ll miss hanging out in the union with Starbucks:(
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: While I am more shy in class and may not show how interested I am, professor valerie Alexandria was one of the most influential professors I have ever had. She made class so entertaining and involved while also caring so much about her students on a personal level as well. She spent extra time outside the classroom and always went above and beyond for her students.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: I have been involved in kappa delta sorority, and alumni relations chair of SHRM.
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: I learned to focus on what I can control and not worry about the other stuff that I cannot control.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Get involved any way you can, and enjoy it while it lasts because it’s going to go by faster than you expected.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: Being able to serve on the executive board of Shrm during my senior year and expand my knowledge and love for Human Resources.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: After graduation I will be working under the operations team at HNM systems and growing my knowledge in the Human Resources industry. One goal I have for myself is to get my SHRM certificate within a few years of graduation.
Kyle Yates (Marketing)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Professor Alex Yao
Favorite SDSU Memory:
EOP Transfer Bridge!
Kyle Yates Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: EOP Transfer Bridge, meeting other transfer students 2 weeks before my 1st semester at SDSU.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The lookout spot behind the art building.
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Alex Yao, he has inspired me to apply myself to different aspects of the data world by utilizing my marketing/creativity skills to use in business.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: Business Honors Student, Tableau Data Visualization Intern for SDSU World Campus and International Business Society Member
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: Do what you love.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Step out of your comfort zone and get experience in internships to find something you'll want in a career.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: Discovering (just recently) that I was a mentor/ role model for a student at SDSU.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: Taking online courses to learn more data tools to use as an aspiring (Business Intelligence or Data) Analyst.
Chiyavan Banavi (Marketing)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Steven Osinski
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Women in Entrepreneurship & Leadership
Chiyavan Banavi Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Favorite SDSU memory was the Women in Entrepreneurship & Leadership event because I got a lot of insight AND I won free tickets to Coachella!
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: My favorite spot to be by myself has to be the Goodfriend lounge in the Student Union. To hang out with friends, I loved going to the Student Union eating area because of Chipotle.
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Steven Osinksi has been the most influential for me because he’s so easy to talk to and understand. He also knows a lot about the industry and actually helped me find out what I wanted to do with my Marketing degree.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: Intramural volleyball
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: Be confident in yourself and you’ll get past anything.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Get involved. Have fun. Don’t stress yourself out with classes. Find great professors and don’t pick classes because it fits your schedule better. Do research on professors and base your choices off who’s the better professor for you to teach the class.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: I’m currently on furlough with Sycuan Casino. I’m also still searching for internships and entry level jobs for marketing agencies. Specifically as a Social Media Intern, Social Media Advertiser, or anything else with Digital Marketing.
Beth Bushey (Marketing - IMC)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Prof. Peter & Prof. Cornelis
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Joining Delta Sigma Pi!
Beth Bushey Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: I’ve made so many good memories at SDSU, it’s hard to choose just one! One of my favorite memories was joining Delta Sigma Pi. I made so many friends through the organization and my college experience wouldn’t have been the same without them.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: I’m definitely going to miss the patio on the fourth floor of Calpulli Center. It’s a great study spot and has beautiful views!
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: All of my marketing professors have been amazing, especially Dr. Peter and Dr. Cornelis. I learned so much from them and they made class really enjoyable.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: During my first year at SDSU, I joined a business fraternity called Delta Sigma Pi and it was probably the best decision I made! It’s really inspiring to be surrounded by so many smart and driven people. I also worked on-campus at the Test Accommodation Center. It taught me a lot about how to work with different people and I’m really going to miss everyone I met there.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: My advice to incoming students is to not be afraid to put yourself out there, don’t be afraid to fail. It can be scary sometimes but you learn so much and meet great people by stepping out of your comfort zone!
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: After graduation I’m hoping to find a marketing job in the music industry. I’m really passionate about concerts and live entertainment so that would be the ultimate goal.
Nick Courtney (Finance)
Advice to Incoming Students:
Try to get involved
Nick Courtney Q&A
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: I have been apart of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity since my Freshmen year where I took on the role of Treasurer. My experience as Treasurer allowed me to be elected to the Fowler College of Business Council as the Vice President of Finance where I was able to meet so many peers from different student organizations and grow my network. For off-campus involvement, I have held two summer internships. One at a small capital management firm in my hometown and the other my Junior year at HSBC in their Corporate Banking Division.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Really try to get as involved in as many student organizations as possible. You will meet so many people with diverse backgrounds that can transform your full experience at SDSU.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: This upcoming Summer I will be moving to New York City to start my career at Morgan Stanley as a Credit Risk Analyst. I look forward to applying everything I've learned within the classroom and utilizing skills I've acquired from various leaders on campus to thrive in an entire new and exciting environment. Thank you SDSU for the past 4 years!
Kate Frels (Marketing)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Professor Kristine Ehrich
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Meeting my best friend at ARC After Dark!
Kate Frels Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Meeting my best friend at ARC After Dark the day after move-in. I had no idea that she would become pretty much my other half, and my rock throughout my entire college experience - at that time she was just the nice girl from my floor! It's incredible to see how far we've come, and how we've accomplished so many of the goals we had set for ourselves back then. That will forever be a night that changed the trajectory of my college experience!
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The balcony on the back side of Storm Hall West. It was my favorite place to go to study, read, or simply watch the world pass by when I needed a little break!
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Professor Kristine Ehrich. She is one of the smartest and most interesting people I've ever learned from. Her teaching style is engaging and deeply educational, as her passion and enthusiasm emits out of her. Beyond being a fabulous professor though, she is to her very core one of the most genuine, best people I've met. The way she cares for her students is unmatched, and after having the privilege to be her student for not one, but two semesters, as well as be her TA, it is so apparent she wants nothing but success and true personal joy for each individual she teaches. I am so grateful for the way she has shaped not only my time here on campus, but also my perspectives on the world around me.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: I have had the opportunity to have multiple internships, some back at home in Wisconsin, and some out in San Diego. I had one at Northwestern Mutual and one at Adaptive Business Group, a tech recruiting firm up in North County, both of which were made possible through career fairs, and really helped prepare me professionally to enter the workforce. Also this past semester I was a mentor for first year commuter students on campus, which was a really wonderful way to pass along what I'd learned, and reflect on the last four years. Additionally, I had the opportunity to volunteer at campus clean ups, and other community service events, which is always such a gratifying thing to be a part of!
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: "You can't pour from any empty cup." Our Dance Marathon advisor, and Student Life Advisor in SLL, Tierney Harrison told me this, and it is a reminder everyone needs in college, I think. It is so easy to give so much of yourself away to your academics, co-curricular commitments, internships, social life, etc. but it is also so vital that you do things for yourself to ensure not only your success, but your sanity too.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Pursue things that you are passionate about, and surround yourself with people who make you want to be the best version of you while doing so. Try as many new things as you can, join the club, study abroad, apply for the executive board position, go to the event, keep saying yes until you find your community. Embrace and learn from every single failure that you have, they often teach you more than your successes. Through trial and error, you'll find your place and your people, and I truly believe that is what shapes your experience. It's a cliche for a reason, but you get out what you put in, ten fold.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: Academically, graduating summa cum laude and being chose as the Fowler College of Business' Outstanding Marketing Graduate (SUCH an honor)! Personally, over-achieving our fundraising goal of $365,000 for the kids at Rady Children's Hospital alongside the rest of the Dance Marathon at SDSU Leadership, who just so happen to be some of my best friends.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: I will be relocating to Minneapolis, MN in September and joining 3M to begin my career! I would love to continue to work in corporate marketing for some time, ideally within product development and/or marketing strategy. Eventually, I'd like to go back to school, attain my PhD and become a professor at a university, but we will see where the world takes me!
Samantha Kaczmarczyk (Marketing)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Professor Sunaina Chugani-Marquez
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Kicking a field goal at a football game!
Samantha Kaczmarczyk Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Getting randomly picked to kick a 25 yard field goal at a football game during halftime! I didn't make it but it was so much fun.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: I'm going to miss hanging out in the Union with friends. I loved doing homework there, attending AS events, hosting organization meetings, and I'm going to miss Shake Smart so much!
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: I would say Professor Sunaina Chugani-Marquez. She is such an inspiring and mindful professor that always takes the time to add real life lessons into her lectures.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: I've been a general and executive board member of the music business organization on campus called Aztec Music Group for three years. I led the org as Director of A&R, Executive Vice President, and President during my last semester. I also got the opportunity to intern at two of San Diego's top intimate music venues: House of Blues San Diego and Music Box SD. I am part of the Business Honors Program and during my senior year I had the privilege of working as a Marketing Student Assistant for the Fowler College of Business with the best team I could ever pray for!
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: It's okay to be stuck at a cross roads and not know where you want to go in life. Just be sure to not stand before it too long or else there won't be any roads left to take. My RWS Professor, Erin Flewelling, told me this when I blogged about my future concerns at the time. I remember her words from time to time.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Don't wait for an excuse. The moment your heart tells you to do something, do it right then and there and don't wait for later, cause if not now then when? Apply, network, play, meet up, join, embrace the fear of doing something new and enjoy it! You won't regret it.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: I'm most proud of knowing myself enough to make a complete 180 in my college career and start fresh. I came to SDSU as a Computer Science major and knew it wasn't the path for me. Changing my major was scary, but the day I switched to Business my whole outlook on life changed within me. I could finally imagine a future, meet people with similar mindsets, found my passion in Aztec Music Group, had the most fun at my internships, and learned so much through my work with the Fowler College of Business that I can 100% say has helped me grow into the marketer I am ready to be after graduation :)
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: I hope to work in the music industry after graduation and contine to work on my original music.
Christopher Lee (Business Admin)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Associated Students Government Affairs Staff
Favorite SDSU Memory:
So many memories!
Christopher Lee Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: SDSU has given me so many lifelong friends and memories that I am not able to pinpoint one specific memory. From the fun times of floor 4 of University Towers to the years of memories made with my brothers of Phi Delta Theta to meeting and networking with some of the most influential leaders this campus has ever seen, SDSU has a special place in my heart.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: My favorite spot on campus that I will miss would definitely be Eureka. I'll miss sitting at the bar with my friends, enjoying refreshments after a long week of classes.
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: The Associated Students Government Affairs staff has had the biggest impact on me during my time here. Brandi Tonne, Janice Dils, and Jennifer Esquivel-Parker have all supported me in one way or another and contributed to my success throughout my years within AS.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: Greek life is one of the main areas of campus that I have been heavily involved with. I have been a member of my fraternity, Phi Delta Theta, since my freshman year. I have had the pleasure of serving on the executive board of Phi Delta as the Vice President of Recruitment and Executive Vice President. I also served on the Interfraternity Council Executive Board as the Vice President of Risk Management. Associated Students is another area of campus that has allowed me to develop myself into a leader. I served this past year as the Chief Justice of the Judicial Affairs Council and spent the previous year serving as a Justice and voting member of the Elections Committee and Recreation and Wellness Commission. I also partook in AS initiatives, such as Aztecs Rock Hunger and was a mentor for the First-Year Leadership Initiative. Athletics was another part of campus that I was able to partake in. I was a sports marketing intern this past year for the Aztec marketing department. Other organizations that I also have had involvement with include Order of Omega, SDSU Ambassadors, Housing and Residential Education, Fratmanners, and the Aztec Mentor Program.
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: To do what ought to be done but would not have been done unless I did it, I thought to be my duty.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Education and experience are both valuable aspects of your college career. Find your niche on campus and run with it. Create your own opportunities and surround yourself with likeminded individuals.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: I am most proud of the fact that I was able to give my all to the organizations I have been a part of and see them transform over my years at this university.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: Graduation is a bittersweet moment. Although my time with some of my closest friends has been cut short, I am stoked to be starting my professional career. In a few months, I will be starting out in my role as a Client Solutions Executive for AT&T National Business at their corporate headquarters in Dallas, Texas. I'm looking forward to building myself up in the corporate world of one of the best Fortune 500 companies.
Audrey Liebenberg (Marketing - IMC)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Matt Garcia
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Being in the library late at night with friends
Audrey Liebenberg Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Being in the library late with my friends and all of us just being so delirious and laughing while trying to study for exams.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: Turtle pond for sure!
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: One was definitely Matt Garcia, now the Director of FSL for Student Life and Leadership. He was my advisor, therapist, and friend when I served on the Panhellenic Board in 2019. He pushed me to be the best version of myself and always was someone I could go to if I ever needed help, or just someone to talk to!
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: I served on the College Panhellenic Executive Board in 2019 as Director of Scholarship and Vice President of New Members. I was an active member of Pi Beta Phi for 4 years 2016-2020 and served on the Executive Board as Vice President of Fraternity Development. I also spent 2 years working as an Alumni Engagement Officer for SDSU Alumni.
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: Being a perfectionist, its hard to deal with mistakes and challenges. It’s okay to make mistakes, this is the time in our lives to do it. Whether it’s in a class or with friendships, everything is an absolute learning process. In marketing, you learn about monitoring and evaluating campaigns, and I can apply a lot of that learning to my life. Whatever happens, and whatever choices you make, ultimately you learn from the consequences (positive or negative) and you gain insight for similar situations in the future and can adapt appropriately. Sometimes you need to accept something isn’t working, and that it’s okay. Make the changes necessary and always keep looking to the future and what’s to come. Don’t dwell on past failures but use them to identify and capitalize on future opportunities!
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Enjoy your time here. College is so special and SDSU holds such a special place in my heart. Four years goes by WAY faster than you think. Don’t skip class because it seems boring or you’re not motivated to show up. I did that, and these last 8 weeks I didn’t get the opportunity to go to class and I WISH I would’ve just gone to class when I had the chance to, because now I don’t. You never know what’s going to happen in the future so live in the moment and enjoy every little thing that happens along the way:)
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: I helped run sorority recruitment as Vice President of New Members on CPA this past fall, and watching girls fall in love with chapters like I did four years ago was incomparable. Being able to help facilitate that was so inspiring and satisfying to me.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: I am currently pursuing a career in Marketing Analytics.
Ajinkya Mehta (MIS)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Kaveh Abhari and Patricia van Damme
Favorite Spot on Campus:
Zip Launchpad
Ajinkya Mehta Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Well, there are many. But if i had to pick one then it would be our project “Layover Buddy” where we brainstormed on an idea from scratch and were able to document the entire application including fronted, backend, and pitch it in front of Investors at the end of semester.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: ZiplaunchPad
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Kaveh Abhari and Patricia Van Damme for being mentors and sources of inspiration all these years.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Please try to go to all Career fairs as i was able to get all of my three internships through the fair.
Fernando Olivares (MIS)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Dr. Kaveh Abhari
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Being a part of the DI Lab!
Fernando Olivares Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Being part of the Di Lab.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The pond by Scripps Cottage
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Dr. Kaveh Abhari, he's been a mentor and a friend. He has gone above and beyond during my time at SDSU.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: Sports Business Initiative (SBI), Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP)
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: Just be yourself and live in the moment.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Cherish every moment. Don't rush at everything, things will come when they have to.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: Getting my research study published for a conference that was suppose to take place in Utah in August.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: Right now just living in the moment and staying positive. There is a right time for everything. The right job will come.
Anika Rohlfes (Marketing)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Professor Erlinde Cornelis
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Going to games with my friends!
Anika Rohlfes Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Going to basketball games and football games with my roommates and best friends!
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: Union Courtyard
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you?
A: Erlinde Cornelis
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: Kappa Delta Sorority, Green Love and Rho Lamba Honor Society
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: Try to go to every event you can!
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Try and make as many friends as you can and join on-campus organizations, it'll make your time at state so much more fun and exciting!
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: Being on the executive board in my sorority.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: Working in marketing at an environmental market research firm!
Mikal Sanchez (Management)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Professor Carmen Bianchi
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Meeting my best friends!
Mikal Sanchez Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Meeting and living with my best friends in such a beautiful beach city!
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: Union Court Yard with a Starbucks in hand at all times! (So Starbucks too)
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Carmen Bianchi. She is the most credible and committed professor I have ever had. She is a true role-model and gave me the opportunity to attend a business convention ran by Southern California Institute where she to spoke about her Family business consulting firm and other business owners in various fields. She made attending class the most exciting part of my week and truly left a mark on my last semester.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: Greek Life: Kappa Delta Sorority - served on council as Vice President Community Service working with Olive Crest to raise money for Foster families Greek Life Activity Board - served as Director of Philanthropy & Service working with San Diego Youth Services Played intramural volleyball all four years Dance Marathon- served as Rady Relations for the kiddos at Rady Children’s Hospital Internships: Roche Fruit in Eastern WA & Human Resource Coordinator at New Gateway
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: Take every opportunity that comes your way!
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Go out of your comfort zone in EVERYTHING you do because there is so much positive change and growth within yourself that you never knew was possible until YOU TRY!
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: Raising over $365,000 for Rady Children’s Hospital and raising over $22,000 for Prevent Child Abuse America and Olive Crest.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: Moving back to Eastern Washington to be back with family, finding a job with lots of interactive people work, and buying my own place.
Kaylee Whited (Business Management)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Michael Mchan
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Meeting my best friends!
Kaylee Whited Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Meeting my best friends!
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: The turtle pond.
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Michael Mchan- He led my study abroad trip to Thailand and taught me about meditation and broadening my perspective to be more open minded!
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: Special Events Intern for WiEL, Exec Board of Women In Business, Kappa Delta Sorority
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: It will be the best 4 years of your life so enjoy every minute of it because it goes by fast.
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Get involved! SDSU is full of so many opportunities that will allow you to make friends and grow personally and professionally!
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: Getting to help with the WiEL event.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: Hopefully get a job in Digital Marketing in San Diego.
Noah Winne (Marketing)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Jennifer Esquivel-Parker
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Traveling to Israel for the 2019 Fact Finders trip!
Noah Winne Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?A: Having the opportunity to travel to Israel with 20 other campus student leaders during SDSU's 2019 Fact Finders trip to learn about the history and current status of the Israeli-Palestinian Crisis. Absolutely life-changing trip put on by Hillel of SDSU.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: Third floor balcony of the Student Union.
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: This is a very difficult question b/c many faculty and staff have impacted my life. However, Jennifer Esquivel-Parker, SDSU's Government Affairs Manager, has been from the very start. She's supported myself and so many other students with their roles in Associated Students, has helped me through some major personal dilemmas, pulled strings to find me a job while juggling multiple positions on campus, has the kindest heart, and the most contagious laugh I've ever heard.
Q: What other areas of campus have you been involved with?
A: I joined Theta Chi Fraternity fall 2016, Rotaract of SDSU spring 17 and was their VP of Social for the 2018 academic year, was the Student Support Commission Representative fall 17 - spring 19, worked in Career Services spring 19 - spring 20, and was the VP of Marketing for the Fowler College of Business Council spring 19- spring 2020.
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: College is what you make out of it. You have to embrace every opportunity that comes your way and if something sparks your interest, go after it. It goes by faster than you realize (they were right!).
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: 1. To enjoy your time and get involved! 2. Don't sweat the small stuff, it'll all pass. And 3. Get to know your professors and faculty, they're a resource for you on campus and when the time comes to find a job they're more than happy to get you connected to the right people.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: While there were many great accomplishments and small victories during my time here, I'm most proud I can say I surrounded myself friends who became family in school I now call home.
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: I plan to stay in San Diego working as a Sales Representative for GoSite in SaaS Sales.
Mahsa Zarei (MIS)
Most Influential Faculty Member:
Dr. Kaveh Abhari
Favorite SDSU Memory:
Eating lunch with my friends!
Mahsa Zarei Q&A
Q: What is your favorite SDSU memory?
A: Going to the library to do homework and eating lunch with my best friends.
Q: What is your favorite spot on campus that you'll miss?
A: Love Library
Q: Who has been the most influential Faculty or Staff at SDSU for you and why?
A: Dr. Abhari because he is the best, he is like a good friend, he cares about what you want and gives you the best advice if you need help!
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
A: "Think smart and work hard"
Q: What advice would you give to incoming SDSU students?
A: Do your assignments and projects on time, meet your major advisor every month, and if you have any concerns talk with your counselor.
Q: What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at SDSU?
A: The publication of my paper "Enterprise Social Networks and Innovation Productivity" accepted in Americas Conference on Information Systems (AMCIS).
Q: What is next for you professionally after graduation?
A: Participating in an internship as a Data analyst in summer 2020.
