Emily Marsden's Aztec Experience

“My favorite thing about being an Aztec is how much our student body gives back to others.”

Name: Emily Marsden
Major: Mechanical engineering
Campus affiliations: Delta Gamma, Panhellenic Executive Board, Society of Women Engineers

1. Why did you choose SDSU?

I chose SDSU because it was my dream school since I was old enough to know what college was. Both of my parents went here so when I was little, this was what I imagined when I thought of college. Also, San Diego has the best weather and beautiful beaches so I can’t imagine a better place to live.

2. What inspired you to declare your major?

As a kid, I loved playing with Legos. In school I excelled in math, but I also enjoyed being creative. When I was applying to college, I asked my Dad what job would let me do both of these things. He told me that I was going to be an engineer. I went with it and have never looked back.

3. Which SDSU faculty or staff member has been the most influential throughout your SDSU journey?

Professor Richard Ayala has been the most influential staff member throughout my SDSU journey. He is not only a great teacher, but he also takes the time to work with students so that they can really learn the material. He makes the time for his students and he is always willing to work with us outside of office hours and class time. He also works full-time in the industry while also teaching several classes. As a senior, I really appreciate someone who makes the time for my education.

4. What experience at SDSU has changed your life the most?

Being a member of Delta Gamma has absolutely changed my life for the better. I have not only found my best friends through this organization, but I have also had so many incredible opportunities because of DG. Holding three leadership positions within the chapter has allowed me to grow as a leader and as a woman.

I have also been able to go on and serve on the Panhellenic Executive Board which has helped me to develop my leadership skills even more. Through the support of my sisters I have had someone by my side for every up and down of college. To someone not in Greek Life, this may sound fake or corny and it might be hard to relate to, but imagine having a group of people with you from freshman year that you know will be there for the rest of your life.

Being in a sorority has allowed me to surround myself with people who bring me up and make me the best version of myself. I am surrounded by people who share my values, are focused on their education, giving back and bettering themselves.

5. What has been your proudest achievement while at SDSU?

My proudest achievement at SDSU is definitely organizing and executing the Join Us Campaign for the Sexual Violence Prevention and Awareness Series. It was a week filled with eight inspiring events and it was incredible to see the Greek community and SDSU student body come together to learn about sexual assault prevention on our campus.

6. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

For the past year I have been interning for Teledyne SeaBotix, a company that builds underwater robots. In five years, I hope to be working there full time as a mechanical engineer. I also hope to work for, or start a nonprofit that uses engineering to help people in third world countries by making things that we take for granted in the United States possible there.

7. What’s your favorite thing about being an Aztec?

My favorite thing about being an Aztec is how much our student body gives back to others. There is always something related to community service going on. We have so many student organizations filled with people dedicated to helping their cause. Being surrounded by people who put others above themselves is inspiring and uplifting.