What impact did your graduate experience have on your professional trajectory?

Completing doctoral studies at USC Annenberg gave me tools to conduct rigorous research, confidence in instructing graduate and undergraduate communication courses, and friendships that have lasted beyond the boundaries of campus. My experience helped me secure a position as an Assistant Professor at Washington State University and to truly enjoy the transition from student to faculty member.

What from your USC Annenberg education best equips you to face the challenges of your field today? 

My mentors at Annenberg encouraged me to pursue projects that emerged from my interests and life experiences — projects that I was passionate about — as early as my first year as a doctoral student. They supported me as I explored different opportunities and approaches, and this support allowed me to find my research niche fairly early on and to build it out during my time in the program. I’m so appreciative of all the Annenberg faculty members who molded my thinking, spent time answering my many questions, and helped me overcome setbacks. They modeled innovative thinking and action and a desire to grapple with key communication challenges.

What advice would you give for someone considering graduate studies at USC? 

For students interested in doctoral studies, I encourage you to thoroughly research the faculty members addressing your topics and methodologies of interest. Then, reach out to these individuals and see if they are open to having a conversation with you before you apply. This communication can help you determine program fit and may be the start of building a relationship with a future mentor. This was my approach, and I wouldn’t change it!

What is the one thing that a USC Annenberg student ought to take advantage of while enrolled? 

The opportunity to forge friendships with fantastic, intelligent peers! Annenberg students do impactful work during graduate school and in their careers after graduation, influencing the field of communication and beyond. They’re also interesting individuals from diverse backgrounds. I learned so much from getting to know my classmates at Annenberg.

Gillig’s notable projects

• Research into the effects of transgender media portrayals, conducted in collaboration with Royal Pains (USA Network), was published in the top-tier journal Sex Roles and featured in outlets such as the L.A. Times, Newsweek, and Chicago Tribune.