ASU grad learned powerful lessons at ASU Thunderbird and in Greek life

Editor's note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2021 graduates.

Latina sisterhood, leadership in Greek life and fantastic coursework at the Thunderbird School of Global Management was a powerful mix for Carolina Tovar, who graduated this spring with her master’s degree in global management from Arizona State University.

Originally from Veracruz, Mexico, Tovar grew up in a small town in Arkansas. In college, she majored in global digital transformations and digital audience strategy.

Tovar is a part of Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha, Inc and is the management intern for the Greek Leadership Village. Part of her role there was to work with the Greek Leadership Village assistants, who are student leaders who live in the GLV to build community and help students connect to resources. 

“I loved working with the GLVAs to plan and execute programs within the GLV. I learned that time is precious and goes by way too quickly to be stressed about things that are out of my control,” she said. 

During her time at ASU, Tovar received two Thunderbird Alumni Scholarships. She says she’s looking forward to decorating her new home, starting a family and finally having some time to relax.

“One of my proudest moments was the feeling right after I presented my final deliverable to my client, Smuckers, in my Global Challenge Lab course. I’m looking forward to binging lots of Netflix without feeling guilty!”

Tovar spoke with ASU News about her time at ASU, what she learned, what advice she’d give to current students and what the future looks like for her. 

Question: What was your “aha” moment when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?

Answer: I don’t believe there was an “aha” moment, but the moment I knew I was in the right place was during Foundations (program) when Professor Javidan gave his speech on having a global mindset.

Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?

A: I learned so many things, especially because my cohort is so diverse. I learned about so many cultures and nationalities, and it’s taught me to be more open minded.

Q: Why did you choose ASU?

A: Because I heard about how great my college was and the extensive network that I would have access to.

Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?

A: Professor Leclerc filled his classes with personal anecdotes and funny stories that have really impacted me. What I learned in his class went beyond that of international negotiations.

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

A: Unless they’re signing your paycheck or grading your class, their opinion of you doesn’t matter.

Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life? 

A: My favorite spot was the Starbucks on the Downtown (Phoenix) campus. Many of my classmates and I would go there to study.

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: I am going to be moving to Phoenix and starting my first “big girl” job as a project manager for a pet treats company.

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

A: I don’t think $40 million would even make a dent in any problem, but if I had unlimited resources, I would want to tackle the first Sustainable Development Goal of ending poverty.

Written by Austin Davis, ASU Student Life