When Dezi Ortega first came to Stanislaus State, he was not sure college was where he wanted to be.
“The truth is, at first, I honestly didn't even want to go to college,” Ortega said.
Encouraged by his family, Ortega chose Stan State and moved from Stockton to the Turlock campus, a decision he now calls “the single best decision I have ever made.” As a first-generation student majoring in business administration with a concentration in marketing, Ortega found that his college experience changed once he began putting himself out there.
“Coming out of high school and going into college, I didn't know how to socialize,” Ortega said. “But the last thing I wanted was to finish college the same way I finished high school, missing out on everything, keeping to myself and just going home.”
Ortega became involved in Nu Alpha Kappa (NAK) Fraternity, Housing and Residential Life, Student Affairs and New Student Orientation. He said each experience helped him build confidence, communication skills and a network of people who supported his growth.
“Becoming a part of Nu Alpha Kappa Fraternity has helped me grow in ways that I never expected,” Ortega said. “They taught me how to be a leader and take action, and if it weren't for NAK, I wouldn't have been able to take the leadership positions I currently hold.”
He also credits Donovan Orozco Preciado, Nehha Kazmi and Angelica Maghinay for playing key roles in his development. Their mentorship helped him build confidence, pursue leadership opportunities and see a clearer path for himself.
“They have not only given me the best college experience, guidance and support, but they were the ones who truly believed in my potential and took a chance on me,” Ortega said.
Orozco Preciado, a strategic operations specialist in the Division of Student Affairs, described Ortega as a student who reflects the power of involvement, leadership and personal growth. He served in several roles, including New Student Orientation Leader, resident assistant, program assistant and student assistant within Student Affairs Marketing and Communications.
“Whether helping welcome incoming students, building community within Housing or contributing to initiatives that enhance the student experience, Dezi leads with care and the goal to help others,” Orozco said.
Ortega plans to continue working for Student Affairs over the summer before beginning Stan State’s Master of Public Administration program in the fall. He will also transition into a Student Success Intern role with Housing and Residential Life. Eventually, he hopes to become a residential education coordinator.
“I want to give back to the community that gave me everything,” Ortega said. “A lot of it starts where I started, which is in Student Housing, because, in my perspective, the Housing can have one of the most significant impacts when it comes to student experiences and the college journey.”
#StanGrad File
Name
Dezi Ortega
Hometown
Stockton, CA
Degree/Credential
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Marketing
What memories stand out most from your time at Stanislaus State?
“Throughout my entire college journey, I've made so many memories and met so many people that I will hold close to my heart. Shoutout to Nu Alpha Kappa, Housing & Residential Life and Student Affairs, because without them, I would be nowhere near accomplishing my goals that were only dreams at first. I’ve made tons of amazing friends and long-term connections along the way that will stay with me even after graduation.
At Stan State, I was amazed at how much each individual supported not only the well-being and development of student leaders but also that of residents. I'm blessed to have been given the opportunity to be a part of the Student Affairs team. I've had so much fun helping lead New Student Orientation and at Commencement, where I got to see and experience huge milestones with all the students of that particular graduating class.”
Which faculty or staff member had the greatest impact on you, and why?
“To me, there isn't just one person who had the greatest impact on me. There have been so many people in this community who have played key roles in my life. Some of the main people, though, are Donovan Orozco Preciado, Nehha Kazmi and Angelica Maghinay. They have not only given me the best college experience, guidance and support, but they have also been the ones who truly believed in my potential and took a chance on me. There have been times I felt like I wanted to drop out or give up. They helped me without even knowing it; they gave me that extra push that I needed to succeed, and they mean more to me than they could ever know.”
What advice would you give to current and future students?
“Try everything. If you want to succeed in life, you can't be afraid of failure. And with every lesson, you’ll become a little stronger. I often look at where other people are, and sometimes I forget the journey they had to get there. I always wonder if I’m behind or if I’m ahead, but the reality is that everyone has their own story. No matter what age you are or where you're at in life, your story is unique to you — and you will succeed as long as you keep trying. Remember, everything is meant to happen for a reason, no matter how good or how bad it is. In the end, if it’s meant to be, it will be.”
Note: This article is part of the StanGrad series highlighting Stanislaus State students who are part of the Class of 2026. Read more StanGrad profiles.
