Kimberly Allis Aztec Experience
SDSU student Kimberly Alli has held several leadership positions on campus.
Name: Kimberly Alli“But after researching the opportunities, the culture and the programs here, I couldn’t shake the feeling SDSU was where I needed to be.”
Major: Business administration with an emphasis in finance
Campus affiliations: Associated Students, SDSU Ambassadors, Aztec Dance Marathon
1. Why did you choose to attend San Diego State University?
Since my freshman year of high school, I thought I was destined to attend college on the East Coast. But after researching the opportunities, the culture and the programs here, I couldn’t shake the feeling SDSU was where I needed to be.
2. What inspired you to declare your major?
Coming in as undeclared was really exciting. I spent my first year surrounded by biology, mathematics and business majors, acting as a sponge to figure out where I would best fit. After leaning toward business for a while, I ultimately decided on finance once I took Accounting 201. Although I knew accountancy might not be for me, the class inspired me to do research, and I learned that the financial industry could continually challenge me.
3. What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
Coming into college, my dad told me, “Don’t be afraid of taking risks.” Whether it was studying abroad in Prague or applying for different leadership positions on campus, taking risks during my time at SDSU has allowed me to create some very meaningful memories and relationships.
4. Which SDSU faculty or staff member has been the most influential throughout your SDSU journey?
As a resident advisor, I was really lucky to be surrounded by dedicated faculty who cared so much about students in the residence halls. I learned so much from each of them, specifically from the passion and thought they put into every student interaction. Tita Gray was especially influential during the past three years, as she quickly transitioned from my Faculty-In-Residence to my mentor to my support system, and ultimately my friend.
5. What does student success mean to you?
Student success means achieving the goals one has set for themselves. SDSU is dedicated to ensuring students have the support and resources they need to achieve any of their ambitions.
6. What experience at SDSU has changed your life the most?
Being involved in Aztec Dance Marathon changed my life. From my first year as a dancer to my last year as vice president of external affairs, I have seen the tremendous power individuals have when they come together for something bigger than themselves. Each year, I watch more and more students give their time to support the kids at Rady Children’s Hospital, and each year I become more optimistic about the future because I know the leaders SDSU is producing are going to change the world.
7. What has been your proudest achievement while at SDSU?
At the end of last year as I was saying goodbye to the residents on my floor, one of my freshmen came up to me and told me, “You’re the reason I stayed. You made SDSU home for me.” There is nowhere else I would have rather spent my last two years than as a resident advisor, walking alongside our newest students and helping them find their home on campus.
8. Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself completing another degree and impacting positive change wherever I may end up.
9. What’s your favorite thing about being an Aztec?
There are so many reasons I love being an Aztec: the study abroad programs; all of the student clubs and organizations; our career services center; faculty and staff who are committed to the success of students; the students who are committed to making a difference; and the culture of giving back to future generations. I am so proud to be an Aztec for Life.
