Sierra Morehardts Aztec Experience
Sierra Morehardt is a computer science major who works as a student assistant in SDSUs Instructional Technology Services.
Major: Computer science
Campus affiliations: Sirens of State - A Capella, Instructional Technology Services, SDSU Housing front desk
1. Why did you choose to attend San Diego State University?
I chose to attend SDSU mainly because of its location in San Diego. I also greatly appreciated its affordability, diversity and academic competitiveness. SDSU had everything I was looking for in a university, and choosing to attend SDSU was the best decision I’ve ever made.
2. What inspired you to declare your major?
I was a mathematics major when I took my first computer science course. Professor Patty Kraft inspired me to change my major. I was quite intimidated on the first day, being one of few females in the class and having no knowledge or experience in programming. I was in an intro course, yet I felt behind. Professor Kraft taught me that anyone can learn to code. All you need is hard work and self-discipline.
3. What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is to never procrastinate. This especially applies in the field of technology since it is continually advancing. Also, coding is a skill learned through repetition and lots of practice. Procrastinating while learning code is near impossible. If you want to be successful, do the work right now, not tomorrow.
4. Which SDSU faculty or staff member has been the most influential throughout your SDSU journey?
Professor Kraft has by far been the most influential faculty member throughout my years at SDSU. She inspired me to change my major, and she hired me to be her grader after I completed my "Introduction to Computer Programming" course with her. She fueled my interest in the field and has always believed in me. I am forever grateful that she came into my life.
5. What does student success mean to you?
I believe that student success has nothing to do with course grades or GPAs. A student is successful when they are studying what they love and using what they learn in class to create a positive impact on their classmates or campus. In my mind, success has much to do with giving back to those who helped you reach your goals.
6. What experience at SDSU has changed your life the most?
Living in the dorms my freshman year was the most life-changing experience I’ve had at SDSU, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I had never shared a room growing up. Both of my brothers had moved out by the time I was 12. It was quite a difference living in an eight-story building with hundreds of students my own age. I learned quickly to take up less space and make friends with my neighbors.
7. What has been your proudest achievement while at SDSU?
My proudest achievement at SDSU was when I was hired to work in the Instructional Technology Services department on campus. This is the field that I hope to pursue a career in one day, and being hired to work in that department at my own college campus was very rewarding. I know that this job will teach me the skills needed to achieve my desired career once I graduate.
8. Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself working in an information technology and support department. I’m frequently asked where I want to live when I graduate, or for which company I want to work. Most young people are so fixated on the biggest names like Amazon and Google, but I would be open to living and working almost anywhere. My five-year plan has unlimited possibilities.
9. What’s your favorite thing about SDSU?
My favorite thing about SDSU is the large, diverse community. I have met students of every race, from all parts of the country. I even took a semester of Farsi this past year—something I never would have considered before attending SDSU—and I loved it. I admire SDSU for being so welcoming of people from all walks of life.
