Birth of an Aztec

The phrase Aztec for Life evokes memories of great times as a student, meeting your best friend or significant other, or finding your life’s calling during your time at SDSU.

But what of SDSU’s current students? What memories will connect them to the university’s 200,000-plus alumni family and secure them a place in its 113-year-old history?

For some students, the connection to the Red and Black is emotional.

“To me, being an Aztec for Life is that emotional reaction you feel when you step foot on campus,” said Ignacio Prado, a recent transfer student and vice president of finance for Associated Students.

Because of Prado’s involvement on campus, which includes stints on “every AS board imaginable,” Aztec Center has become his home away from home. He estimates that he may have spent even more time on campus as part of AS than in his own home.

It’s the relationships

For others, being an Aztec for Life isn’t so much about who you become while you’re here, but instead about being accepted for who you are when you step onto the Mesa.

“San Diego State has something for everyone,” said Rachel Ferguson, a public relations senior and SDSU ambassador. “It’s an all-inclusive campus; you don’t have to be one type of person to fit in here and love it.”

Rachel FergusonBesides her involvement in the SDSU Ambassadors organization, Ferguson has also worked at KPBS, at the SDSU Bookstore and as an intern in the Department of Marketing and Communications. She recognizes that these experiences have contributed to her identity as an Aztec for Life.

“Working here, meeting people here, has definitely strengthened my bond to the university; it makes me feel closer to it,” she said.

Saranette Sotomayor, an alumna and current student in the Graduate School of Public Health, echoed much the same sentiment.

“SDSU is the place where I was able to grow academically, professionally and personally,” Sotomayor said.

“At SDSU, my instructors became my scholarly parents who make their offices my home away from home—even during furlough days. My friendships were born and strengthened by long hours of studying for midterms and finals at the 24/7 rooms, and opportunities keep me coming back for more.”

Born Aztec

For others still, there was simply no other choice—they’ve always been part of the Aztec family and always will be.

“I knew while growing up in San Diego that I wanted to attend SDSU,” said Julie Seal, an alumna, employee at the SDSU Research Foundation and current graduate student. “My grandmother, mom and sister all earned degrees from SDSU, so I have roots here.

“Being an SDSU alumna and current master’s student means something more than having and earning a degree, it means being a part of a distinguished community of dedicated students, educators, staff and researchers.  I am proud to call myself an Aztec for Life.”

About SDSU Month

"Aztec for Life" is the theme of the 8th annual SDSU Month and also of SDSU's video contest, the winner of which will enjoy a vacation for two to Cabo San Lucas. 

SDSU Month will feature 31 days of fun and stimulating academic, arts and athletic events, as well as offers from local businesses and organizations for SDSU's growing family of friends and colleagues.