#SDSUGrad: Adam Carrillo

Over the past year, the San Diego State University community has shown its true resilience. Graduates from the Class of 2021 are no exception. During this unprecedented time in human history, the university has prioritized providing students with important services like virtual academic support, emergency financial assistance and other support services. In particular, SDSU Career Services continues to offer resources for students, including the online career platform Handshake and expanded virtual programming and advising.

In this series, we highlight graduates as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives, including those who have secured jobs and internships or are moving into advanced studies. 

Name: Adam Carrillo
Major: Applied Mathematics with a honors minor in interdisciplinary studies and a minor in computer science
Hometown: Yorba Linda, CA

Can you describe what your plans are after graduation?  

During my junior year at SDSU, I had a positive experience working as a teacher’s assistant where I taught students in precalculus small section classes. These small sections mimicked the environment of a standard high school classroom because I was able to build connections and personally get to know all my students. This past year, I have been working remotely as a student-athlete academic tutor, which further cemented my desired to pursue a career in education. These positive experiences sparked my enthusiasm for becoming a high school math teacher, so I will be continuing my studies at the UCLA Teacher Education Program in fall 2021.  

What advice do you have for fellow students, regardless of their field, looking to jumpstart their career post graduation?  

My advice is to not be worried if you still don’t know what to do professionally post graduation. Coming into college, I had no idea what I wanted to use my applied mathematics degree for, and I spent my first two years contemplating a change of major. While some may have their future careers planned out, it is completely normal to take your time to decide. SDSU has a lot of great resources available to help students who have yet to know the path they will be taking post graduation.  

What is it that you are most looking forward to as you kick start this next chapter? How did SDSU prepare you for success not only at the university but after graduation?  

I am most looking forward to physically being back in the classroom and begin working with students. The pandemic made me realize how much I took daily face-to-face interactions for granted. Thankfully, I was able to have a rewarding experience throughout my first three years as a member of the SDSU Marching Aztecs. Playing trombone in the band taught me leadership skills that have prepared me to be successful as a future teacher. Additionally, being a student in the Weber Honors College led me to discover new insights and think critically. The unique and engaging classes included in my Honors Minor in Interdisciplinary Studies also prepared me to strive for success after graduation.  

What experience at SDSU has changed your life the most?  

Joining the Sigma Chi Fraternity at SDSU has definitely changed my life the most. At the beginning of my freshman year, I saw enormous potential in the fledgling Sigma Chi chapter, which only had 10 members at the time. I had looked towards Greek Life as a way to get involved, meet new people, and get leadership experience. As the fraternity slowly grew each semester, I continued to get more involved until I served as president my junior year. While I continued to help build up this group, I noticed that I was forming lifelong friendships based on true brotherhood. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without my fellow brothers inspiring me to set ambitious goals and always striving to be a better person.