Passion: Identify it, explore it, pursue it.
From the outside, one could look at Tyler Martinez and think, “Wow, that kid’s a self-made success story.” While this is definitely true, Martinez prefers to put it like this: “It’s really all been because of God … He's blessed me … with opportunities.”
Martinez was born in Provo with roots in Peru from his mother’s side. Since his parents got married young and quickly, his dad opted for the work route instead of pursuing a degree. Martinez's parents were able to provide him and his three siblings with an amazing childhood but Martinez knew he wanted more.
From taking accelerated courses starting in elementary school, to excelling in baseball, to reading “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” at only age 15, he set himself up for success early on. Though he always had an interest in finance-adjacent careers, his early plan was to attend a university on scholarship for baseball.
During that process throughout his last half of high school, Martinez felt himself drawn in a different direction … the BYU direction. He was struck by the academic ratings, specifically of the Marriott School of Business, as well as the multicultural opportunities presented by the university. When it came down to decision-making, he applied exclusively to BYU with the intention of majoring in finance.
“I really like this university [for the] academic opportunities … [it] all aligns with my faith, my values,” Martinez highlighted. He said realizing these things made him get “serious about applying to and coming to BYU.”
Though he was fully committed from day one, Martinez stated that when he arrived and started getting involved, BYU “surpassed my expectations … in all aspects.” Still an avid sports lover, he attended lots of athletic events, but what impressed him the most were the academic resources available to those who would seek them.
“It's pretty incredible, the amount of time, effort and resources they invest into their students,” Martinez pointed out. “Learning from the best and … getting some of the best jobs available to us” was a highlight that Martinez mentioned.
In fact, his internship resume is stacked with big name companies: American Express, Comcast/NBC Universal, and most impressively, Microsoft.
But even with this impressive line-up, Martinez opened up about “imposter syndrome,” or feeling inadequate even though he had the skills necessary to excel. He shared experiences during those internships where he had “the simplest of questions that I feel like everyone around me knew the answers to.” To combat these feelings, he reminded himself that he just had to take everything one step at a time, advice that he would give to anyone feeling similarly.
He also advises current students to network, not only for future job opportunities but also simply to learn. He acknowledges the stereotype that networking can come across as ingenuine at times but his antidote was to connect consistently and organically. This skill, combined with adaptability and drive, gave Martinez a leg up that is available to any hardworking student
Not only has Martinez chosen BYU wholeheartedly, but all of his siblings have attended or are planning to come here with the same passion he has. They “wear that brand of BYU proudly” for all it stands for. Martinez emphasized the uniqueness of not only the academic rigor but also the testimony-building that is embedded in every facet of the school.
He looks forward to the opportunity to continue to represent the university and the Church as he transitions to work full-time at Microsoft following graduation.
“Obviously, it's just the start,” Martinez acknowledged. “I'm just beginning my career, but I think identifying the habits that got me to where I [am] is going to continue to help me throughout my career.”
Martinez's humble beginnings coupled with innate ambition and a passion for future success led him to be a first-generation graduating student and future corporate powerhouse. He owes the support he’s received to his high school sweetheart turned wife, his family, his professors and, of course, His Savior.
