In a stirring speech that called on graduates to seek truth and help others, former talk show host turned media mogul Oprah Winfrey offered practical advice, shared personal anecdotes and challenged students to tackle real-world problems.
Thando Dlomo arrived ready to learn the skills needed to become a journalist. She had the chance to interview directors, activists, journalists — even Ava DuVernay — on her path to finding her voice in order to connect with people around the world. She grew up in South Africa and was one of the first students to attend Oprah Winfrey’s Leadership Academy, where she was taught to always “dream big.”
A quick look at Sebastian Vega’s Instagram page tells you a lot about this broadcast and digital journalism student who is set to graduate on May 11.
USC Annenberg has three sets of identical twins — each with the same major — graduating this year. We sat down and talked to all six as they prepare for commencement. They spoke excitedly about their futures and the people who have helped them along the way.
“One of the best parts about Annenberg has been the opportunities I’ve had access to.” – Katrina Swarthout ’18 (M.A., Strategic Public Relations).
A communication major from the Bay Area, Joy Ofodu refused to limit herself when she came to college. She took advantage of all the resources and opportunities available to students — from getting involved in on-campus research centers and event programming to off-campus internships and a Bay Area Maymester program. Ofodu graduates on May 11 with a job secured at Instagram and the knowledge that she gained the experience necessary to tell the kind of stories that she wants to share with the world.
5:30 am: Read for class 6:30 am: Calls with New York office 7 am: Coordinate with Marcos to make sure kids are awake, dressed and eating breakfast 7:30 am: Marcos takes kids to school, more calls to New York 8 am: Leave for work
No matter how challenging Leighdia Sandoval de Padilla’s morning might be, she knows someone in history had it worse. And, now, she’s created an app for that.
Annenberg International Programs launched its first alternative spring break program in Thailand this past March. Thanks to a donation from a generous USC Annenberg parent, a total of fourteen students were given the opportunity to travel to two of the country’s most iconic cities: Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Steven Villescas, a master’s student in the communication management program, offers a first-person account of the trip. You’ll find other student experiences here.
