Where are you from and what were you doing before enrolling in graduate school?

I was born and raised in Orange County, California. Before enrolling in graduate school, I worked on the PR team at an investor relations firm, where I supported technology companies preparing to go public. In this role, I gained hands-on experience pitching national and trade journalists, working closely with C-suite executives on thought leadership, and shaping compelling narratives regardless of how technical or complex the subject matter was. The experience taught me how to always find a compelling story and communicate it clearly to any audience.

How did you learn of the degree program and why did you choose USC Annenberg?

After completing my bachelor’s degree in communications in 2021, I knew I eventually wanted to pursue a master’s but first wanted to gain industry experience. After working across sectors ranging from data centers to aviation to hospitality technology, I began to see how rapidly client and media expectations were shifting in response to AI and emerging technologies. I felt this was the right moment in my career to return to school and deepen my understanding of how AI is reshaping corporate storytelling. I learned about the program through my coworkers who earned their master’s degrees from USC Annenberg, and through my own research, I was drawn to the program's innovative curriculum and strong alumni network. The program’s ability to evolve alongside the industry and connect students directly with leaders shaping the field made me want to apply. 

What have you enjoyed the most about the degree program?

What I’ve enjoyed most is the opportunity to learn alongside peers, faculty, and alumni who are also passionate about the future of communications. The faculty's commitment to integrating inspiring guest speakers into the curriculum has been especially impactful. Getting this real-world insight into where the industry is headed has opened my eyes to what's truly possible in the field and my own career.