SAN DIEGO– Aztecs Going Pro hosted its 6th annual Mock Interviews with an Aztec event on Monday, March 16 from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., connecting San Diego State University student-athletes with professionals from a variety of industries. Designed to prepare student-athletes for real life job interviews, this event allows student-athletes to gain confidence in their interviewing skills and learn more about their potential career paths.
Mock Interviews with an Aztec is a signature event for Aztecs Going Pro and reflects the program's commitment to career development, one of its three foundational pillars. Aztecs Going Pro alumni frequently credit the event as an influential part in their career journey.
“Mock Interview with an Aztec is one of our most impactful career development experiences because it gives student-athletes the opportunity to practice, receive real-time feedback, and build confidence before entering the workforce,” said Danielle Kelly, Senior Associate Athletic Director, Student-Athlete Support Services. “Seeing our student-athletes engage with professionals and alumni who are invested in their success reinforces the strength of the Aztec network and our commitment to preparing them for life after sport.”
More than 125 student-athletes and over 50 professionals participated in this year’s event, 44 who are SDSU alumni. Student-athletes were paired with a professional currently working in an industry aligned with the student-athlete’s interests for a 25-minute session. The session included 15 minutes of practice interview questions, simulating a real job interview, followed by 10 minutes of feedback from the professional to help the student-athlete improve their interviewing skills.
To further accelerate career readiness, this year marked the first time sophomore student-athletes were included in the program. Expanding the event earlier in the student-athlete experience allows participants to begin developing professional skills and exploring career interests sooner, reinforcing the program’s commitment to preparing student-athletes for life after sport.
“One of the most powerful parts of this event is seeing our alumni and business professionals pay it forward to the next generation,” said Brenden Hill, Assistant Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Development and NIL.“Their willingness to share their time, experiences, and advice gives our student-athletes real insight into the professional world and helps them feel more confident about their future.”
Mock Interviews with an Aztec serve as a cornerstone of the comprehensive four-year student-athlete development program at SDSU. This initiative is guided by three foundational pillars: personal growth, career development, and civic engagement. Through these experiences, student-athletes are equipped with the skills and resources necessary to achieve success beyond the arena.
Head to the Aztecs Going Pro's website or Instagram for more information and to stay up to date on the program's latest events and developments.