Fowler Scholars Program Student Spotlight: Natalie Soriano
Natalie Soriano, Fowler Scholar Class of 2023
The Fowler Scholars Program was created to educate and prepare a select group of Fowler College of Business students for accelerated and lasting leadership roles in global business and society. Each year, the college selects a new group of freshmen from the local San Diego area to become Fowler Scholars. The students selected for the program have demonstrated leadership, ethical conduct, and exceptional academic and collaborative abilities.
Natalie Soriano, a class of 2023 Fowler Scholar, is a sophomore majoring in accounting. Soriano is involved in the SDSU Symphonic Band, the Asian Pacific Student Alliance (APSA) and SDSU Ambassadors. After graduation, Soriano hopes to work for one of the “Big Four” accounting firms with aspirations of working in management or recruiting one day. Soriano discusses her college experience, describes what being a Fowler scholar means to her, shares advice for current Fowler students, and more.
Q: What does it mean to you to be a Fowler Scholar?
To me, being a Fowler Scholar means constant learning and inspiration. This program has given me the opportunity to attend networking events where I can refine my public speaking and interpersonal communication skills. Through these events, I have met many professionals who have not only shared their stories with me but have given me advice on how to improve myself as a student and prepare myself for starting a career.
Q: Can you describe a little bit about yourself and how/when you decided to pursue accounting as an area of study?
After spending my freshman year researching different majors, I decided to pursue accounting. Accounting involves patterns and making sure that financial records are accurate and balanced. I find that I enjoy subjects where there is a definitive answer and a method towards getting there, which is why accounting fits me. I also enjoy interpersonal communication and working with others, which is why I hope to focus on the audit side of accounting, which deals with clients regularly and involves teamwork.
Q: If you’re involved in SDSU student organizations on campus or affiliated with any organizations off campus, can you share why you got involved and what your experience has been like so far?
Last year, I got involved with the Asian Pacific Student Alliance (APSA). I was able to attend bonding events, volunteer, and participate in discussions about my culture with new friends that I made. I also played flute in the SDSU Symphonic band, which is a one-credit concert band class open to all majors. I enjoyed having the chance to make music while in college, especially since I was in band all four years in high school.
Last Spring, I was accepted as an SDSU Ambassador, an organization of leaders who lead tours and facilitate on-campus events. I joined this organization because I love serving others, and I can’t wait to have the chance to serve prospective students alongside a new family of dedicated peers. Last semester, I joined the Student Accounting Society which has allowed me to learn more about my major and prepare for future career-related endeavors.
Soriano playing flute in the SDSU Symphonic Band.
Q: What experience in the Fowler Scholars Program has been the most impactful?
During one of our weekly discussions, one of our guest speakers, Mark Lindner, held a personal branding workshop with us in which he discussed the importance of knowing who you want to be as a leader and ensuring that others perceive you in that way. This was an extremely impactful experience because this discussion had me asking myself questions that I’d never needed to before. It led me to realize the importance of recognizing my strengths, acknowledging my weaknesses, and applying them in such a way that others see you as the worker, leader, and person that you want to be.
Q: Who inspires you and why?
My family inspires me because the lessons and love they’ve given me throughout the years have shaped me into who I am today. I admire my parents for working so well as a team in the face of adversity and my brother for always being motivated and hardworking. They continue to show me support as I grow as an individual.
Q: What has been your favorite SDSU memory so far?
Throughout the Spring 2020 semester, I prepared to perform in APSA’s Fashion Talent Show, which is an annual variety show full of performances by members showcasing culture, student talent, and the bonds of friendship. I was set to participate in two dance numbers and walk the runway showcasing clothing styled by Asian-American designers. Though the show was canceled due to Covid-19, attending the practices and preparing for the performance alongside friends filled me with so much joy.
Q: If you could go back to your freshman year, what advice would you give yourself?
I would tell myself to not hesitate in the face of opportunity. Though I attended several events and found good organizations and experiences, there was more that I wanted to try out. However, due to the school year being cut short, I lost out on those chances. If I had gotten past the nervousness and apprehension that came with trying something new, I may have opened even more doors than I did in the time that I had.
Soriano and fellow Fowler Scholar, Faith Goh, at an Aztec Nights event.
Q: What is the best advice you have received during your time at SDSU?
The best advice I have been given so far is that as intimidating as networking as a student may seem, recruiters and professionals at career events want to talk to you! Their job is to find students willing to take the first step towards opportunity, and they most likely love meeting unique and hardworking students. By doing a little research beforehand, preparing insightful questions, and finding a way to connect on a personal level, you’re sure to have a successful experience networking.
Q: What career aspirations do you have following your time at SDSU?
I hope for my first job after graduating to be auditing in the San Diego office of an accounting firm, possibly one of the “Big Four” accounting firms or a medium-tier firm. I hope that starting out an entry-level position will help me develop a solid understanding of audit and introduce me to other opportunities within the firm, such as management or recruiting!
*All group photos were taken prior to March 2020.
