Itzel Ortuno's Aztec Experience

Name: Itzel Ortuno
Age: 21
Major: Art with an emphasis in graphic design
Campus affiliations: American Institute of Graphic Arts, SDSU Marketing and Communications student assistant

1. Why did you choose SDSU?

I knew that I wanted to further my education when I was younger, but I had a vague idea of what I wanted to study. Aside from being able to stay close to my family, great scenery and a diverse campus, I chose SDSU because it offered outstanding academics, recognized athletics and great campus programs. I knew that coming to SDSU would open many doors for me and provide a comfortable campus for me to grow as a student and as a person in the community.

2. What inspired you to declare your major?

One of the most difficult decisions during my academic career was deciding to change my major. I came into SDSU as a student in the journalism department, and although I liked it, I knew it wasn’t my passion. I came to realize that a successful future comes from a fulfilled existence. It was then that I decided to pursue a degree in graphic design. I was nervous to pursue art and while every professor recognized the difficulties inherent in the change, they provided valuable insight on how to succeed.

3. What is the best piece of advice you ever received?

I remember coming home from a long day at school when I was younger and plopping myself down on the couch. My mom asked me how school was and I remember telling her about that day’s exam. I said I didn’t feel too confident about it, but my mom told me that as long as I tried my best, there was nothing else to do. It didn’t settle well with me when I was younger, but the older I grew, the more I came to realize what the statement meant. You should give everything in your life the best effort you have, because it’s all you can do.  

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

It’s incredibly difficult to choose one professor that has most influenced me as a student, because all professors provide valuable experiences. However, a professor that stood out in my academic career was Patricia Cue, a professor in the School of Art and Design at SDSU. She begins emails with, “Hello Designers,” and is always reminding you that this is your career and your design is your decision. She makes the classroom relatable to real world practices and prepares us for our futures.

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

A single experience at SDSU hasn’t changed my life, but a series of experiences have. Being a part of a community that is open to conversation has made the experiences at SDSU incredible. Students are able to have open dialogue and converse with one another on a variety of topics that allow others to understand what people think and why they think the way they do. Learning about others’ cultures, experiences and thoughts is truly the essence of being a participating human in society.   

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

My proudest achievement at SDSU was an unexpected one. I was chosen to be the outstanding student for the School of Art and Design, which is an honor for me because it shows that my hard work and dedication was noticed.

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

The strong community built by a network of Aztecs has to be my favorite thing about being an Aztec. Anywhere you go, you might encounter a fellow Aztec and you might bond over sitting by Hepner Hall on a warm day or you might reminisce on the bells that would bellow from Hardy Tower. The community that is constantly being built is strong and wonderful.