From Normal School to Aztec Nation: The Not-So-Normal History of San Diego State's Name
Ah, San Diego State University. Home of the Aztecs, epic tailgates, and... a name that's been on more of a journey than Christopher Columbus (though hopefully with less pillaging). Buckle up, future Aztecs (or curious minds), because we're about to delve into the fascinating, slightly bizarre history of how SDSU got its name.
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| How Did San Diego State Get Its Name |
From Humble Beginnings to Name Change Shenanigans: A Timeline of Confusion
- 1897: The San Diego Normal School enters the scene. Think teacher training central! Not exactly the fight song material it is today.
- 1923: A glow-up! The school sheds its "normal" label and becomes the more impressive-sounding San Diego State Teachers College. We're getting closer... kind of.
- 1935: Shedding the teacher training focus, it becomes San Diego State College. Now we're cooking with gas (or should we say textbooks?). This stuck for a cool 37 years, which is basically an eternity in the world of college name changes.
The Great Renaming Fiasco (or How NOT to Pick a College Name)
- 1972: Enter the California State University System. They decide all the CSU campuses need to have a uniform name format. Sounds reasonable, right? Wrong. San Diego State College becomes... California State University, San Diego. Imagine the horror! This monstrosity was about as catchy as a cold sore.
*Fun Fact: This name change was so unpopular that alumni still hold onto their original "San Diego State College" diplomas with pride. Sort of like a participation trophy for surviving a terrible name.
Tip: Don’t rush — enjoy the read.
Thankfully, the powers that be realized their mistake.
Tip: Take your time with each sentence.
- 1974: Huzzah! Common sense prevails. The university is officially christened San Diego State University (SDSU), the name we know and love today.
The Moral of the Story?
Sometimes, a little tradition goes a long way. San Diego State University's name may have had a few awkward phases, but it ultimately reflects its history and place within the San Diego community.
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
Frequently Asked Questions (Aztec Edition)
How to sound like a true SDSU insider?
Tip: Skim once, study twice.
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- Answer: Simply say "SDSU" or "State." Easy peasy.
How to avoid the wrath of alumni who still have "California State University, San Diego" diplomas?
- Answer: Just don't mention it. Trust us.
How to explain the Aztec mascot to someone completely confused?
- Answer: Roll with the "ancient warriors with a thing for red and black" vibe. It's cooler than the truth (they picked it because it sounded good with the school newspaper's name, "The Aztec").
How to know if you're on the right campus?
- Answer: If there's a giant Aztec warrior statue, you're probably good.
How to score the best parking on campus?
- Answer: This one we can't help you with. Good luck, Aztec warrior!
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