Cynthia Medina-Solrzano's Aztec Experience
This Aztec is the president of the College of Business Council.
Major: Business management
Campus affiliations: College of Business Council, Associated Students, Aztec Dance Marathon
1. Why did you choose San Diego State University?
I chose SDSU because it felt like home the moment I stepped on campus. I was immediately motivated by the “Leadership Starts Here” slogan. Everyone at this university embodies this and it was clear after my campus tour that I wanted to be a part of this amazing campus community.
2. What inspired you to declare your major?
As a junior in high school, I attended a summer leadership program at the University of Southern California Leventhal School of Accounting. That program helped me realize that I loved the networking and leadership aspect of business. I decided that management was the route I could take that would allow me to be flexible with my career choices while still having a business and leadership background.
3. What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
“You have to understand you cannot have faith and fear at the same time; you can only have one or the other.” This quote is by Napoleon Hill.
4. Which SDSU faculty or staff member has been the most influential throughout your SDSU journey?
Tita Gray, the assistant dean of the Fowler College of Business Administration, has been influential to me even before we officially met. I’ve admired her since the first time I heard her speak at orientation. Her energy and passion are extremely contagious and she genuinely cares about individuals and their success. Tita has been an incredible advisor, mentor and friend who has helped me grow personally and professionally. She is an incredible person that leaves a positive impact on SDSU and the world daily.
5. What does student success mean to you?
For me, student success is about learning within and beyond the classroom. I think SDSU is a great setting to learn from a diverse group of people. You can learn just about anything if you sit down and have a genuine conversation with anyone on this campus. With that being said, I recommend everyone network with their peers.
6. What experience at SDSU has changed your life the most?
Joining the Aztec Dance Marathon leadership team my sophomore year has been one of the most life changing experiences while at SDSU. This group includes some of the kindest and selfless individuals I have had the privilege to meet. Being a part of this team makes me feel like I really am making a difference daily. I’ve always believed in the quote, “Be the change you want to see in the world,” and Aztec Dance Marathon makes me feel like I am doing just that.
7. What has been your proudest achievement while at SDSU?
My proudest achievement while at SDSU has been having the opportunity to be a resident advisor. Helping first-year freshmen find their home on campus and encouraging them to leave their own legacy at SDSU brings me a sense of purpose and pure joy. Their energy and curiosity inspire me daily and this experience has ignited my curiosity in a possible career in Student Affairs.
8. What’s your favorite thing about being an Aztec?
My favorite thing about being an Aztec is that although it is such a large campus, there are so many opportunities to find a place here that feels just right. We all have such an immense amount of pride. Whenever I go back to my small hometown, I can’t stop talking about how incredible our university is.
