Main Stage Mindset: How SDSU Shaped Jason Ross’ Career

From DJing at San Diego State University events to headlining major festivals around the world, Jason Ross (‘12) has always known exactly what he was chasing: his “north star.”

Growing up in San Diego, Jason was immersed in music long before it became his full-time career. As a communications student at SDSU, Ross was playing at Greek life events, going to raves, and studying the energy of rooms at clubs like FLUXX Nightclub in downtown San Diego.

After graduating, Jason decided to go all in with DJing, moving back in with his parents with no backup plan, just passion and a dream. His communications degree proved to be more valuable than he expected, helping him understand branding, audiences, connection, and how to command a stage. 

Jason slowly began building his brand, handing out CDs on campus, playing in little clubs around San Diego, and getting exposure wherever he could. Through the grind, one goal remained clear since college: perform on the main stage at the Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC). 

10 years later, he achieved it. A full-circle moment that reflected years of focus, preparation, and belief in his “north star.”

With over 700 million streams, Jason has gone on to headline at some of the biggest festivals such as Tomorrowland, Beyond Wonderland, Creamfields Hong Kong, and Bonnaroo, and he continues to headline venues across North America.

Now coming out with his new album, all about his “north star,” Jason hopes that he can inspire other students and alumni to chase their dreams, no matter how hard or unrealistic they may seem to achieve. Because, while the behind-the-scenes work may go unseen, if you stay focused and determined, the stage you once dreamed about might be closer than you think.