Omar Diaz

The experiences I faced throughout my time at SSU taught me that my cultural background is not common in my degree, which makes me be the change I want to see.

My name is Omar Diaz and I am a second-year music major, with a performance concentration. I was born and raised in Oaxaca, Mexico and came to the US for a brighter and better future. I am a first generation student and I embrace this very much because of the struggles and sacrifices given by my family and myself.

Some of the positions I hold at SSU is that of a section leader with the Sonoma State Symphony and peer mentor. Both of these roles have taught me major leadership roles and have challenged me endlessly. Throughout the community, I play the violin with a local mariachi group and I teach violin to kids at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts.

One of the biggest lessons college has taught me, is that you have to work for yourself. With that being said, one of the biggest challenges I have faced, was finding my way at such a place like SSU. As a person of color, it was difficult to feel at home and still bring what I have to offer. However, overtime the education, resources and overall experiences I have received, have proved to me that I am equal and have great potential.

Choosing SSU has brought me many positive and life changing experiences. I have played concerts and recitals in the world renowned Schroeder and Weill Hall, get to work weekly with a member of the San Francisco Symphony, gone on a fully funded trip to Japan and received work opportunities that will prepare me for what is to come.