Q & A with Black Business Society Alum
Tijera Wright, Business Administration: Management major.
In honor of Black History Month, the Fowler College of Business is highlighting alumni who have made an impact on campus and continue to do post-graduation. Tijera Wright, who graduated in 2019, has left her mark on various campus organizations and continues to give back through the Black Business Society mentorship. Currently, Wright works as a Business Consultant at Ernst and Young (EY) and credits San Diego State University for the skills she gained to succeed in her role.
Name: Tijera Wright
Pronouns: She/Her
Major: Business Administration: Management
Involved Organizations: Black Business Society (BBS), Fowler College of Business Council (CBC), Residential Education Office (REO), Residential Hall Association, Associated Students
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Q: Can you describe a little bit about yourself and how/when you decided to attend SDSU?
In high school, I was involved in many extracurricular activities such as improv and leadership opportunities. Leadership was my favorite activity because I was able to serve the student body and critically think through situations. I was able to use my creativity skills from improv to solve problems. That’s when I thought - I want to be a businesswoman. Fortunately, my sister attended SDSU so I had a first-class seat to the college experience at SDSU. My favorite experience was attending the Afrikan Student Union High School Conference where I was able to participate in workshops and meet other black college students. After that event, I remember thinking, “This is where I belong.”
Wright during her study abroad experience.
Q: Briefly share what makes your story unique and how your time at SDSU has influenced your journey personally and/or professionally.
During my time at SDSU, I learned so much personally and professionally because I put myself out there. I applied for many leadership positions, organizations, and internships. Yes, I heard many noes, but I also heard many yeses. I did not let the noes stop me from my goals and love for serving others. SDSU taught me that when you hear a “no”, it is time to learn from the experience and grow to be able to hear more yeses.
Q: What advice do you have for SDSU students wanting to connect with the Black communities on campus or in San Diego?
Get involved! Attend that meeting! Connect with that person! There are many resources on campus like the Black Resource Center (BRC) and organizations that serve black students such as the Black Business Society (BBS) and Afrikan Student Union (ASU). Yes, it will be nerve-racking to attend your first meeting or seek a mentor, but the benefits you will receive and can provide will be transformative.
Q: Tell us a little bit about your involvement with student organizations at SDSU.
Wright and fellow Fowler College of Business Council members.
In my sophomore year, I was a Resident Advisor (RA) where I had the opportunity to conduct programs on diversity, personal development, and academic performance. Additionally, I had the honor of being the VP of External Relations and President of the Fowler College of Business Council where I was able to serve over 6,000 students through professional development events, allocation of funds, and events geared towards academic success. My favorite experience at SDSU was serving as the Vice President of the Black Business Society. During my time as VP, I was able to design a proposal for a sponsorship with California Coast Credit Union and execute many leadership development workshops for the executive board and members.
Q: How did you find the Black Business Society? What about the organization inspired you to join?
My sister told me amazing things about the Black Business Society and she was not lying. At the first meeting I attended, it was amazing to look around and see people who looked like myself. I felt comfortable. I felt seen. There was no need to code switch. I was able to be my authentic self. BBS was more than an organization, it was my community that helped me along the difficult journey navigating college as a first-generation black college student.
Q: Describe your experience in the SDSU Black Business Society chapter as a student.
Life-changing! Not only was I able to network with black business professionals, hold leadership positions, develop professionally and personally, but BBS was my community. I keep saying this, but it is true. It was a place where I could talk about the different challenges I’ve faced such as being the only black student in a business class or how to maneuver through Corporate America as a black professional.
Wright and fellow Black Business Society members.
Q: Describe your experience in the SDSU Black Business Society chapter as a mentor or supporter.
Being a mentor to students in the Black Business Society has been a rewarding experience. It feels great helping the next generation of business professionals navigate college and the business world. I am the professional I am today because of BBS and my goal is to help BBS members say the same.
Q: Can you recall a meaningful project or class you participated in while at SDSU? If so, please share details about that experience.
I had the opportunity to take the BA 405 course, International Business Strategy and Integration, while studying abroad in Shanghai, China. It was very fitting to be abroad while studying strategic concepts in global markets. One of my favorite experiences studying abroad was visiting company sites like Volkswagen. At Volkswagen, I was able to learn how they differentiate themselves in the market.
Q: What has your professional journey been like after graduating from SDSU?
After graduating from SDSU, I became an IT Business Consultant at Ernst & Young (EY), a Big Four Firm. I help my clients understand and address IT risks within their organization. Every day, I am able to use my innovation, critical thinking, and communication skills. SDSU significantly helped prepare me for this role. Thank you, SDSU!
Q: When you’re not working how do you like to spend your free time? Please share about any hobbies or interests that you may have.
I love going to trendy restaurants, cooking new recipes, playing tennis, painting, doing yoga, and meditation. During the pandemic, I learned how to make charcuterie boards which lead to me starting a charcuterie board company, Board & Boujee.
