Daniel Taylor

Cal State Fullerton’s Guardian Scholars Program, supported by generous donors, provides academic opportunities, mentoring and support for former foster youth as they pursue degrees and their careers.

One of the graduating Guardian Scholars this year is Daniel Taylor ’20, who just completed the undergraduate entrepreneurship concentration as part of a business administration degree.

Overcoming early hardship, Taylor has grown to become a versatile business professional ready for the next chapter.

Travis Lindsay, adjunct entrepreneurship professor who taught Taylor, describes him this way: “Daniel was a great student and very conscientious. He was always prepared in the classroom and made the extra effort to meet with me, his team and his clients outside of class as well. I look forward to seeing what he does professionally.”

Taylor shares his experience, the impact of the Guardian Scholars Program and the entrepreneurship program, and his plans for the future.

How did you come to be a student at Cal State Fullerton?

My academic journey began at Mount St. Jacinto College in Menifee, California. I spent one year there and changed my major five times, from biomedical engineering to business administration. I later had a falling out with my family and moved to Cerritos, where I discovered Cypress College. I attended Cypress Community College for about two years while living in a house filled with strangers. At the time, I did not have much life experience or business experience. I couldn’t write a résumé, but with time and education, I began to learn how to conduct myself professionally. I then decided to attend Cal State Fullerton. I did not apply to any other universities because I was confident that CSUF was my home.

What was your experience as a Guardian Scholar?

The donors made my experience as a Guardian Scholar amazing. I give them a lot of the credit for my achievements. Their relentless support and a willingness to help me gave me all the motivation and leadership I needed to succeed.

How did you decide to study entrepreneurship at CSUF?

I decided to choose entrepreneurship because it was a reflection of my life. My life is filled with so many obstacles, perils, innovation and risks. I’ve overcome so many challenges, so when I heard that there was a degree in which you can study entrepreneurship, I pursued it. This degree means that I have the ability to navigate the business world in various locations all over the globe, adapting and creating and bringing new ideas, technology or just about anything into this world.

What are your plans for the future?

I plan to open up a company that assists minorities all over the United States, whether that be in housing, food, education or occupations.