Business school grad 'rebuilt' himself throughout ASU journey
David De Sousa (second from left), who is graduating this fall as a W. P. Carey Dean's Medalist honoree, interned at Cancer Support Community Arizona while pursuing his degree. Photo courtesy of Shelley Valdez
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2025 graduates.
W. P. Carey School of Business graduate David De Sousa wants future students to know that his ASU journey is proof that your past does not define your future.
"I rebuilt myself here through discipline and curiosity, which helped me grow both personally and professionally," he says.
When De Sousa began his ASU journey on the Polytechnic campus two years ago, he carried a heavy dose of self-doubt: He had dropped out of high school, and at 35, was older than many of his peers. But his commitment to consistent academic discipline paid off: This winter, he'll graduate as a W. P. Carey Dean's Medalist honoree with a BA in applied business and technology solutions.
"That recognition was a direct result of showing up day after day and committing to the work," he says.
While earning his degree, De Sousa also completed the applied business and data analytics certificate and interned at Cancer Support Community Arizona, where he worked alongside a team passionate about empowering people facing cancer — an experience that reshaped how he views empathy, service and the importance of strong communities and support systems.
As graduation approaches, De Sousa, who lives in Gilbert, Arizona, is excited to launch his career and is considering pursuing a graduate degree at ASU.
Question: What was your “aha” moment, when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?
Answer: When I noticed how much I enjoyed working with marketing and project management teams in previous jobs. I liked thinking about the work they were doing and all the different angles you could approach it from. I felt most grounded when building structure on projects or being creative in my work, and since I have always been business-minded, the applied business degree fit perfectly with my goals.
Q: Why did you choose ASU?
A: ASU offers opportunities in the fields I am interested in, and its programs are well-ranked. W. P. Carey has one of the strongest business programs in the country, and ASU’s culture rewards people who show up and keep moving forward. Also, the Polytechnic campus is a great place to learn.
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?
A: The most important lessons I learned came from School of Applied Professional Studies Instructor Christopher Glover and Assistant Professor of philosophy Imge Oranli. They didn't just teach the course content — they created a space for real discussion and encouraged us to think more deeply. Both professors stood out because they treated me as a whole person, not just a name on the roster. The time and genuine care they put into helping me, both as a student and as a human being, is something I will carry with me long after graduation.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?
A: Build momentum and protect it. Show up every day, even when you don't feel motivated. Create routines that support you. When you are in class, remember that the reason you are there is to learn and make connections.
Also, find real-world experiences early. My internship with Cancer Support Community Arizona put me in the middle of real projects that mattered to people facing cancer. I was trusted with meaningful work, and I had the opportunity to learn from a small team that blends compassion with professionalism. I could see the impact of every event and communication on real families. If you are a current student looking to grow your skills while feeling like what you are doing matters, I strongly recommend reaching out to them for internship or volunteer opportunities.
Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends or just thinking about life?
A: Any quiet corner where I could reset with a coffee and headphones. I am introverted, so having a calm spot to reflect and stay grounded made a big difference. The Polytechnic campus has so many great quiet study areas.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I plan to start my career and am researching master’s programs at ASU. I want to spend a few years gaining experience, saving and building the foundation for my career. Travel is also in the plans, but the first step is to launch my career strongly.
Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?
A: I would fund mental health and community support programs for people facing serious life challenges in the greater Phoenix area. The saying “tend to the part of the garden you can reach” resonates with me as it speaks to working locally, where you can have more impact. I have seen how life-changing support can be during hard moments, so I would invest in scaling care and counseling, practical resources and real human connection.
More Sun Devil community
2026 MLK Servant-Leadership Awardees announced
Every year in honor of Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy of leading through service, Arizona State University recognizes members of society who are upholding the civil rights activist's ideology and…
2025 in pictures: ASU photographers share some of their favorite moments of the year
From football games to lab work to graduation, our photographers in Media Relations and Strategic Communications see it all throughout the course of the year.So we wanted to know — what were…
Finishing what she started: ASU grads’ lifelong pursuit of education becomes a reality
Makita Hogans has tried her hand in higher education for years, but her commitment to her newly born son put her vision for a degree on the back burner.“I made the choice to raise my son. His future…