SAN DIEGO — Aztecs Going Pro (AGP) marked a milestone in student-athlete career development on Monday, February 16, 2026, hosting San Diego State University’s first-ever Student-Athlete Internship & Career Expo at the Parma Payne Goodall Alumni Center.
Designed exclusively for SDSU student-athletes, the evening brought together a diverse group of employers to discuss internships, early-career roles, and professional pathways beyond athletics. Organizations including Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, Sun Bum, and The Walt Disney Company’s Disney College Program joined campus partners from SDSU Career Services, the Glazer Center, and SDSU Athletics — reinforcing the university’s commitment to preparing student-athletes for long-term success in the workforce.
As student-athletes moved between tables throughout the evening, employers emphasized the unique qualities that set them apart.
“Student-athletes definitely stand out to our organization,” said Tess Moore of Sun Bum’s People and Culture team. “I know from being a student-athlete myself, the kind of hard work and dedication these athletes bring to the table.”
Moore affirmed that the brand’s presence signaled strong confidence in SDSU’s student-athlete community.
“I think this is a perfect launching point to connect a local company with local talent we have right here in our backyard,” she said. “It’s all about the connection… There’s so much more than just the product, it really is the lifestyle.”
A centerpiece of the evening was the return of SDSU football alum (Class of 2017) Anthony Luke, now known in WWE as Kam Hendrix, who spoke with current Aztecs about his transition from college athletics to sports entertainment.
“Because student-athletes know grit, they know determination, they know things aren’t easy,” Hendrix said. “It honestly just shows that you’re able to do anything in the workforce because you’ve been pushed to another limit… student-athletes are the way to go.”
Reflecting on why he chose to return, Hendrix shared his pride in his alma mater.
“I honestly have so much pride in being a San Diego State Aztec,” he said. “When they asked me to come here and help the next generation of student-athletes join the workforce, I couldn’t say no… I’m living my dream of being a WWE superstar, and I get to say I’m a former San Diego State Aztec.”
Beyond employer engagement and alumni insight, the expo had a meaningful impact on students themselves
Sophomore Julianne Stark, SDSU water polo player, emphasized the power of networking early. “My biggest takeaway is probably just connecting with people overall… It doesn’t matter whether or not they have something for you right now. It’s all about the future.”
Fellow sophomore Alyssa Alumbres, track and field jumper, added, “Just getting out there and connecting with everyone, even if it’s not in your expertise or interest. You can always find something in your area in anyone you’re talking to.”
For juniors nearing graduation, the event provided clarity and urgency.
“It helped me get on track and see what future endeavors I can get into after my sport — because the ball doesn’t bounce forever,” said BJ Davis., SDSU men’s basketball player.
Davis’s teammate, Latrell Davis, agreed, highlighting the value of expanding his network. “You don’t know who knows who, so really being able to network and meet new people… you never know what you might find.”
Overall, the night demonstrated the power of collaboration between athletics, career services, alumni, and industry partners. The expo was powered by Aztecs Going Pro in partnership with SDSU Athletics, SDSU Career Services, the Glazer Center, and the SDSU Alumni Association — signaling a campus-wide commitment to preparing student-athletes for meaningful careers beyond sports.
Given strong employer interest and positive student engagement, AGP plans to expand career-focused programming in the coming years, with the Student-Athlete Internship & Career Expo positioned to become an annual tradition.
About Aztecs Going Pro (AGP)
Aztecs Going Pro is SDSU Athletics’ student-athlete development program focused on personal growth, career readiness, and civic engagement. Through innovative programming and strategic partnerships, AGP equips student-athletes with the skills, experiences, and networks needed to succeed beyond sport.
Follow Aztecs Going Pro on social media:
Instagram: @AztecsGoingPro
LinkedIn: Aztecs Going Pro – SDSU Athletics
About the Jeffrey M. Glazer Center for Leadership & Service
The Jeffrey M. Glazer Center for Leadership & Service at San Diego State University empowers students to become engaged leaders through leadership development, community service, and civic engagement. By providing hands-on learning experiences, workshops, and community partnerships, the Glazer Center helps students develop the skills, confidence, and purpose needed to lead positive change on campus and beyond.
Website: https://leadership.sdsu.edu
Instagram: @sdsuleadership
LinkedIn: SDSU Leadership & Service
About SDSU Career Services
SDSU Career Services supports San Diego State University students and alumni in exploring career paths, gaining professional experience, and preparing for the workforce. Through career coaching, employer engagement, experiential learning opportunities, and career readiness programming, SDSU Career Services equips students with the tools and resources needed for successful transitions from college to career.
Website: https://career.sdsu.edu
Instagram: @sdsucareers
LinkedIn: SDSU Career Services
About WWE
WWE, a global leader in sports entertainment, creates and delivers original content across television, live events, digital media, and social platforms, reaching audiences worldwide. WWE is committed to developing world-class talent and providing opportunities for athletes and professionals to translate performance, discipline, and personal branding into careers both in and out of the ring.
Website: https://www.wwe.com
Instagram: @wwe
LinkedIn: WWE
X (Twitter): @WWE
Aztecs Going Pro Marks the Successful Completion of the First Student-Athlete Internship & Career Expo
Aztecs Going Pro (AGP) marked a milestone in student-athlete career development on Monday, February 16, 2026, hosting San Diego State University’s first-ever Student-Athlete Internship & Career Expo.
