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

I’m originally from Rancho Cucamonga, California. Before enrolling at USC, I earned my undergraduate degree in Communication from UC Santa Barbara after serving in the U.S. Navy. During my undergraduate years, I was heavily involved in student leadership and mentorship programs, as well as media-focused projects, which helped shape my interest in storytelling, strategy, and creative communication.

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

I learned about the PRA program through mentors and faculty during my undergraduate studies at UC Santa Barbara, who spoke highly of USC Annenberg’s reputation and professional network. I was drawn to Annenberg because of its emphasis on mentorship, collaboration, and the way the program blends strategic thinking with creative storytelling, alongside its strong connections to the media and entertainment industries.

What have you enjoyed the most about the degree program?

What I’ve enjoyed most about the program is the collaborative environment and the mentorship from faculty and peers. The coursework encourages creative thinking while grounding ideas in strategy, and I’ve valued learning alongside classmates with diverse professional backgrounds and perspectives.