Paola Siguenza-Lopez
Paola Siguenza-Lopez’s college journey hasn’t been a straight path, but it’s been full of growth and discovery. As a first-generation college student, she’s learned to manage challenges while building a future in business. Along the way, she’s made it her goal to inspire others, especially fellow first-generation college students, to feel supported and confident in their own college experiences.
Interview by Zohra Basmadjian
Tell me a bit about yourself and why you chose Georgia State.
I’m a rising senior studying management with a minor in international business. I’m also a first-generation college student.
I always knew I wanted to attend school in Atlanta. I love the city! When I toured GSU, I felt a sense of comfort. I saw there were many people from different backgrounds and cultures. Plus, who doesn’t want to live the city life?
Why did you choose management?
I wanted to pursue a business-related major, so I came in with a declared major in entrepreneurship. However, after my first semester, I had a professor I clicked with and he inspired me to switch my major to management. I felt like this field of study would give me a broader spectrum of opportunities within the business field.
What organizations are you involved with on campus?
I am a member of the 1913 Society. I’m also a resident assistant at University Commons. I love my job there, working with residents and connecting them with what they need.
What is your dream internship?
To intern with RPM Living, a property management company. I love the way they portray their company culture.
In my interview for an internship, they appeared enthusiastic about their work and the people they collaborate with. I have learned that the work you do is important, but the people you work with are equally important.
Overall, I want to work with a company that promotes diversity, equity and inclusion while also promoting professional development.
How has GSU set you up for success?
My courses — especially those in business — have taught me how to step out of my comfort zone.
In one class, my professor required us to attend various events on campus and talk to business professionals. I had to interview someone in a position I’d want to pursue. I feel like, without prompting, I would have never done that myself.
The coursework in the J. Mack Robinson College of Business does a good job of preparing you for what your future career could look like.
Who motivates you?
My mother. She came to the U.S. from El Salvador when she was 20 years old with a daughter and little to no money. She raised me and my siblings by herself and always had a strong work ethic to give us the best.
It’s inspiring to see her possess that integrity, and she has shown me those traits and characteristics, demonstrating the importance of working hard.
What do you hope to accomplish in the future?
I hope to establish professional and personal development. I want to be the best version of myself that I could possibly be.
I want to work for a global company with people from diverse backgrounds. Whenever I work in a diverse environment, it allows me to see and learn new perspectives.
In what way do you hope to impact your local community?
I hope to inspire other students — especially first-generation college students who may feel lost when they arrive — and let them know that they’re not alone and that they can always seek guidance from people who have walked that pathway before.
During my first year, I was so lost about what I wanted to do and how to get involved on campus, but afterward, I felt like I was able to immerse myself in different clubs, organizations and the many resources that GSU has.
