Sam Emamis Aztec Experience
Sam Emami is the chair of the SDSU Associated Students Marketing and Communications Committee.
Major and minor: Marketing with a minor in entrepreneurship
Campus affiliations: Phi Gamma Delta, Lion's Club International, Associated Students, Entrepreneurship Society, Lavin Entrepreneurship Program
1. Why did you choose to attend San Diego State University?
I was almost 100 percent committed to the University of Washington, but decided to drive to San Diego to see the campus. I instantly fell in love and something inside told me to be an Aztec. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I am so thankful to be at SDSU.
2. What inspired you to declare your major?
Trends and analyzing markets have always been passions of mine. From an early age, selling has always been appealing to me. It was not until I came to SDSU that I was able to experiment with the modern trend of social media marketing. After several internships and a piqued interest, I was dead set on pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business marketing with an emphasis in sales in order to utilize these modern marketing tactics and apply them to businesses and concepts.
3. What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
My freshman year, everyone told me get involved. To this day, getting involved in every capacity I could has set me up for successes and experiences. The motto for SDSU, "Leadership Starts Here,” is the genesis for involvement on campus. Anyone can be a leader on this campus, but it starts with involvement.
4. Which SDSU faculty or staff member has been the most influential throughout your SDSU journey?
Steve DiPaolo, advisor for the Associated Students Marketing and Communications Committee, has been one of the biggest influences in my journey at SDSU. He is always ready to work with me and challenge my ideas to help me become more knowledgeable in the field of marketing. Bernhard Schroeder has also been a big influence of mine as I got involved in the entrepreneurial side of campus. He motivated me to apply for the Lavin Program and offers advice about my ventures and ideas. Both of these wonderful staff members have enriched my SDSU experience.
5. What does student success mean to you?
Student success means immersion into student life. Students should take advantage of all the opportunities the campus has to offer, whether it be leadership, intramurals or student government.
6. What experience at SDSU has changed your life the most?
Joining Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity was probably the best decision of my college career. It has opened doors to so many connections, friends, opportunities and memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Getting involved with Greek life has exposed me to experiences that I would not have had otherwise.
7. What has been your proudest achievement while at SDSU?
My time at SDSU has been full of ups and downs, but I think my proudest achievement has been my admittance to the Lavin Entrepreneur Program. Since my sophomore year, I have accumulated several paid internships through the Lavin Program. Through these experiences, I was selected to participate in the exclusive Lavin Entrepreneur Program with 21 other students. This program challenges us to think outside of the box and strive to achieve greatness.
8. Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I hope to be finishing up my MBA at the University of Southern California, while working on side businesses and projects.
9. What’s your favorite thing about SDSU?
I love the excitement and commitment students have for leadership on campus. Everywhere I go, I see fellow students working hard to make a difference.
