Cooper Abrams' Aztec Experience

Name: Cooper Abrams
Major: Marketing    
Campus affiliations: Aztec Music Group, SDSU Ambassadors, Aztec P.R.I.D.E., Pi Sigma Epsilon business organization, Rotaract, Commuter Programs

1. Why did you choose SDSU?

SDSU has a beautiful campus, excellent location and strong academic reputation as one of the top universities in California. Also, I really enjoyed my campus tour and immediately saw the potential in my future college experience.

2. What inspired you to declare your major?

I was inspired while working as a server at Leatherby’s Family Creamery, a family-owned ice cream parlor and restaurant chain located in Sacramento. I developed a passion for interacting with customers and providing a memorable experience, and the dedication I saw in the Leatherby family gave me the inspiration to pursue a career in business.

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

“When people can’t do something themselves, they want to tell you that you can’t do it. You want something? Go get it. Period.” — The Pursuit of Happiness

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

Tita Gray, the assistant dean of the College of Business Administration and the faculty adviser for Aztec Music Group. When I first met Gray, her leadership and sense of purpose inspired me to be a better person throughout all areas of my life. Having the privilege to know and speak with her on a regular basis has been one of the most impactful parts of my life.

I will always love and respect her because of her dedication to helping other people achieve their dreams, without asking for anything in return. She is truly a special person and SDSU and the world are much better places because of her.

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

My role as an SDSU Ambassador has given me opportunities to speak to groups of 500 new students during orientation, give tours to prospective students and families and has helped me grow both personally and professionally.

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

My proudest achievement so far has been attaining an internship with 3M for the summer leading into my senior year. This opportunity will serve as the beginning to my professional career.

7. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I see myself living in New York City, working for an amazing company, and pursuing a master's in business administration.

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

Even though there are 35,000 students on campus, you can still have a unique college experience. There are so many opportunities to create your own success, and everyone supports each other along the way.