Q&A with Diego
What does a typical day look like for you during the semester?
My days are usually very active. I start my mornings at 7:00 a.m., and when I am not in class or at work, you will probably find me attending campus events, participating in club meetings, working out at the gym, or grabbing a quick snack at Rowdy’s Corner.
What has your journey at MSU Denver been like?
My journey at MSU Denver has been challenging but incredibly rewarding. As an immigrant and a first-generation college student balancing full-time studies with two part-time jobs, I have been pushed to grow both personally and academically. But always with the support of my friends, family, the TRIO Program, C2Hub Scholarship Support Team, ODI Office, and MSU Denver Faculty and staff.
What are you passionate about within business?
I am passionate about business because I see the power it has to create change and impact in my community. Growing up around a family-owned business and working as a server at 17 and now as a money transfer agent, I have learned that I enjoy being in roles where my work makes a difference.
What are your future career plans?
Rather than fighting for limited opportunities, my goal is to create unlimited opportunities. I hope to build my own business that supports immigrants and create a meaningful impact in my community.
What clubs, organizations, or events have you enjoyed the most at MSU Denver?
Pi Sigma Epsilon has honestly been one of my favorite organizations. It’s where I’ve met a lot of like-minded students. Our current president, Kally Nguyen, has been a huge source of inspiration and support for me, and I hope I can do the same as President of the Finance Club. The events I’ve enjoyed the most have been CMEI events, HSI Week, and Latinx Graduation.
What advice would you give to new business students?
The worst thing you can do is finish a class without ever talking to a classmate. Stay curious and get involved by talking to people, joining student clubs, and attending events. As a business student, building meaningful connections truly matters and should always be done with purpose and heart.
What’s something that you wish you knew before you started college?
I wish I had applied for FAFSA sooner. I believed that immigrants were not eligible for this type of support, and that misunderstanding cost me a lot financially. Applying earlier could have saved me a significant amount of money.
What’s your favorite thing about being part of the College of Business at MSU Denver?
I have never experienced this level of support at a college. My favorite part is the number of opportunities we have through C2Hub and our professors, from career treks to career fairs and speaker panels. Professors often share their real industry experiences, and everyone here genuinely wants you to succeed, which is why being a CBUS Ambassador is such a privilege for me.
