Name: Sabrina Shahawi
Major: Journalism with an emphasis in media studies and a minor in political science
Campus affiliations: Pi Sigma Epsilon Professional, Journalism and Media Studies advising, Professional Studies and Fine Arts Civil Core, KCR College Radio and The Daily Aztec
1. Why did you choose SDSU?
I was originally planning on attending Emory University, a school in the south, but because of private family matters I felt like I couldn’t go to school so far away from my home in Los Angeles. I chose to go to San Diego State University instead because of its beautiful campus, welcoming environment, great resources and countless opportunities for getting involved. I am so happy I ended up at SDSU and wouldn’t trade my Aztec experience for anything in the world.
2. What inspired you to declare your major?
Ever since I can remember, I have aspired to become a lawyer. I knew that to become a lawyer I would need to learn great writing, researching, and communication skills, which is why I decided to major in journalism and minor in political science.
3. What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
The best piece of advice I have ever received is from my dad. He always has told me “let things come to you.” He taught me it is important to be ambitious and to have aspirations, but it also important to not be overzealous. What is meant to be is what will happen. Everything happens for a reason and if one door closes, another one will open with something bigger and better than I could have imagined.
4. Which SDSU faculty or staff member has been the most influential throughout your SDSU journey?
Last semester, Valerie Barker was my professor for two JMS classes. She has been the most influential educator throughout my SDSU journey. She is intelligent, hardworking, and truly inspirational. She always sets aside time to help her students so they can reach their fullest potential. She really cares about her students and I feel like I learned so much from her that I can apply to real life scenarios. She’s an exemplary SDSU professor.
5. What does student success mean to you?
Student success means reaching your fullest potential in the university setting, which differs for each student. For me, student success is getting good grades, building strong relationships, getting involved and learning skills that will be applicable to adult life.
6. What has been your proudest achievement while at SDSU?
My proudest achievement while at SDSU has been successfully balancing academics, working part-time, JMS advising and a social life all with a smile on my face.
7. Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself very happy just graduating from law school and working at a law firm in Los Angeles.
8. What’s your favorite thing about being an Aztec?
My favorite thing about being an Aztec is that I am an Aztec for Life!