SDSU’s AITP Student Organization Offers Members Career Readiness Opportunities
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The SDSU chapter of the Association of IT Professionals (AITP) is dedicated to providing networking opportunities for students interested in the fields of technology, cybersecurity, data management and fintech. AITP also serves as a forum for technology-minded SDSU students to exchange ideas and gain valuable industry insights from the guest speakers, field trips and their bi-weekly group meetings.
We asked AITP president, Matt Attardo, and the group’s vice president of communications, Juan Fernando Del Pozo about the organization and its benefits to group members.
Q: What is AITP and who should join?
A: We are a community of students driven by a shared passion for technology and business. It’s an ideal organization for anyone eager to explore the tech landscape, build valuable skills, and grow professionally in the ever-evolving world of technology.
Q: Could you share the number of members for AITP?
A: Currently, AITP has a membership of over 120 students, with a blend of information systems, data science, computer science, and business majors. This diversity has allowed us to create a collaborative
environment where members can share unique perspectives, learn from each other, and gain
insight from a broad range of fields within technology and business.
Q: How does AITP provide professional development opportunities to members?
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A: By participating in guest speaker sessions and hands-on workshops, members not only
develop technical expertise but also build connections with industry professionals, peers, and alumni. Additionally, AITP organizes field trips to companies and tech events, offering members hands-on experiences and a chance to see how classroom knowledge translates into real-world applications. These opportunities help members gain industry insights, refine their skills, and create the network necessary to advance their careers.
Q: What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned from your field trips and speakers?
A: Always be adaptable and never stop learning.
Even after you’ve earned your degree, your educational journey will never end. Some of your skills can be applied to unfamiliar fields that will require you to adapt to your new environment. For example, during our visit to Millennium Health, we heard speakers who had no experience with life sciences, but they were able to rely on the skills they learned in college to successfully transition into the industry. They also emphasized the value of networking where a casual conversation or a LinkedIn outreach can lead to endless opportunities, whether it be an internship, a connection to another professional, or even a full-time role.
Q: How does AITP help to bridge a potential gap between classroom lessons and real-world industry insights?
A: We do this by providing practical experiences that directly align with our SDSU coursework. Our events allow members to witness first-hand how skills learned in the classroom and their internship experiences translate into full-time career roles. This not only deepens their understanding of the subject matter, but also offers them the opportunity to create personal relationships with professionals in their desired fields. Time and time again, these connections have proven to be instrumental in unlocking future career opportunities for our members.
