Diana Caballero
Senior Diana Caballero’s journey to Georgia State wasn’t straightforward. After attending classes on Perimeter College’s Clarkston Campus and transferring to Kennesaw State, she realized downtown Atlanta was the right fit for her. The December graduate is now ready to further her studies and make a significant impact in the world of communications.
Interview by Zohra Basmadjian
Tell me about yourself.
This month, I am graduating as a first-generation student, and I am getting my degree in communications with a minor in film and media.
I started at the Perimeter Clarkston Campus. I always knew I wanted to attend Georgia State because it’s a little further from my hometown — Snellville, Ga. I wanted a change of scenery, and I love the city, but I had cold feet about living on campus so I went to Kennesaw State University for a year. But when I was there, I couldn’t find my people. After that, I knew I was meant to be at Georgia State, so I transferred to the downtown Atlanta Campus.
Why did you choose to major in communications?
I love being around and talking to people. I felt like it was something I knew I wanted to study. And the fact that I could minor in film and media allowed me to connect my interests of diversity, representation, public relations and marketing to the film industry.
What was your favorite experience at Georgia State?
Last semester, I worked with Cultures, Communities and Inclusion (CCI) and I got a chance to go to Las Vegas with my coworkers. It was fun. We went to a Latinx convention and conference where they spoke about the hardships in the Latino community, which I found insightful.
What opportunities did Georgia State bring you?
Working with CCI allowed me to pursue marketing and be around diverse communities. At Georgia State, there is a place for everyone on campus through their various clubs and organizations. Some of the clubs I was a part of were the American Marketing Association and Latin American Student Association. Through the clubs, I got to make a lot of connections and friends, and develop more skills.
What are some of your goals?
I want to continue to pursue my education. I am currently looking into graduate programs. I’m interested in diversity marketing. I’m seeking a master’s degree in marketing or public relations. I’m applying here and to Middle Georgia State. Maybe one day I’ll get my Ph.D.
My absolute main goal is to become a diversity marketer for Warner Bros. or other film production companies. I want to put minorities into a positive light because a lot of the time I feel like we’re put into a bad light. I want to be able to change that in the industry.
What were your biggest accomplishments at GSU?
Being on the Dean’s and President’s Lists, because I never liked school growing up or saw myself getting straight As. It’s something that I strive for every semester at Georgia State. Also, getting promoted to lead undergraduate assistant made me very happy.
What’s the biggest piece of advice you have for Georgia State students?
To always believe in yourself and that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to. Tell people you can do it, and it will happen eventually.