Carla Sanchez's Aztec Experience

Name: Carla Sanchez
Major: Computer science
Campus affiliations: SDSU Ambassadors, EOP student advisory board, KPBS part-time student assistant

1. Why did you choose SDSU?

At first, I decided to attend San Diego State University because it is close to home. Once I came to Explore SDSU, I knew right away I was making the right decision. The faculty, staff and the students were so welcoming and the opportunities that were given to me were endless. I knew this was the place for me to be.

2. What inspired you to declare your major?

I have known I wanted to  pursue a degree in computer science as my major ever since I was in high school. I remember playing around on my MySpace profile, and building my layouts from scratch. Also, I love learning new languages, and what better language than the ones you can build stuff with, like programming languages.

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

The best piece of advice I have received at SDSU is “It is not about what you know, it is about who you know, but furthermore, it is about who knows you”. Not only is important to network and create connections that will lead to one’s success, but rather leave a lasting impression that will help people remember you.

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

I have created lifetime bonds and friendships with most of the faculty and staff that I interacted with at SDSU. Thelma Chavez has been the most influential staff member in my journey because she has always given me so many opportunities and words of advice that have helped shaped the course of my studies.

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

As an SDSU Ambassador, every summer I was able to interact with thousands of students during orientation. Specifically, I got to work along with fellow computer science students who are starting their college experience. Getting to inspire them and give them some insight as to what they will be experiencing at SDSU has inspired me to try to be better in what I do, and set a good example for the students that follow.

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

My proudest achievement was being president of the Educational Opportunity Program student advisory board. I was able to represent the 4,000 EOP Students at SDSU, not only on campus, but statewide, in various conferences. During my term we were able to put up successful events, provide four scholarships, raise money to maintain our support programs for our students and leave an example for the future executive boards.

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

My favorite thing about being an Aztec is representing the SDSU community in all my actions. I love interacting with other people, and future students, and sharing my experience and how being an Aztec is not only about the classroom.