A Global Path to Giving Back

Elijah’s journey to the Peace Corp began after spending a semester abroad. While taking online community college business classes in Mexico City, he discovered a love for travel and cross-cultural connection. That experience motivated him to transfer to CSUSM, drawn by CoBA’s strong Global Business Program and the college’s growing reputation for preparing students to succeed on an international stage.

“I was looking for a place where I could combine my global interests with business education,” Elijah said. “CSUSM stood out because of its global mindset, supportive faculty, and access to real-world experiences.” 

While studying at CoBA, Elijah’s courses in international marketing and management taught by Professors Eric Rhodes and Paola Ometto gave him a deeper understanding of cross-cultural business. His entrepreneurship course with Professor Serhan Kotiloglu pushed him to think creatively and act boldly. Collectively, these skills helped Elijah win first place in the Fall 2024 Quick Pitch competition with an idea for a volunteer-based social networking app called Philantree. 

That win wasn’t just symbolic. It launched Elijah into action. He sponsored his own team through the Senior Experience Program, where fellow students helped him further develop the app. With support from the Innovation Hub, Elijah was able to connect with mentors, business attorneys, and local entrepreneurs to refine his vision and begin planning for a launch. 

While at the university, outside the classroom, Elijah embraced leadership and mentorship opportunities. He attended events like the San Diego Small Business Development Center’s Elevate Summit and helped local high school students develop their own business pitches. “Being able to give back and share what I’ve learned was one of the most meaningful parts of my time at CSUSM,” he reflected. Elijah also says the recognition and resources from CoBA helped him realize his potential. “The support, the opportunities, and the encouragement I received—from professors, mentors, and peers—made all the difference.” 

It was at a campus job fair that Elijah encountered the opportunity that would shape his next chapter. “I met a Peace Corps recruiter who told me my international business background could make a real difference,” he said. “That conversation stuck with me.” 

After an intensive application and interview process, Elijah was invited to serve as a Community Economic Development Facilitator in Colombia. His work will include teaching entrepreneurship to high school students and helping communities launch small businesses.  

Elijah’s Peace Corps service will enable him to put his business education into action, however, his desire to work in global development is deeply personal. Raised in Mexico and Indonesia by parents who worked in the field, Elijah grew up seeing firsthand how sustainable development efforts could transform lives. His own volunteer experience with an anti-trafficking nonprofit in Mexico City also reaffirmed his commitment to making a difference. 

After his Peace Corps service, Elijah is considering a future in the Foreign Service or continuing to build his own business. Either way, he’s clear about the values guiding him forward. “I’d tell other students this: pursue the dream that scares you a little. That’s where growth happens. You’ll discover your strength, expand your worldview, and realize what you’re capable of.” 

Elijah Mattfeld’s story is a powerful reminder that there are many paths to success for each student. For those like Elijah, service, purpose, and passion are essential parts of the journey.