Graduate Student Bios

Prior to entering the graduate program, I worked as a Brand Consultant at Ulta Beauty, applying skills in public relations, advertising, and persuasion that I developed during my undergraduate studies at California State University Stanislaus. I am eager to further expand my expertise in public relations through this program, as it aligns closely with my career goals. Outside of academics and work, I love to travel, attend concerts, and watch my favorite football team, the 49ers.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: Although I haven't started the SDSU grad program yet, I am excited to begin this new journey. I am looking forward to engaging with the faculty, exploring the curriculum, and connecting with my fellow students. I was impressed by the strong support provided to graduate students, from thesis workshops to mentorship opportunities with faculty members‚ all aimed at promoting our success. I am excited to see how these experiences will enhance my academic and professional development.

Prior to starting the JMS grad program, I was an undergraduate JMS student. I have served as the News Editor for The Daily Aztec for the past year and a half, and will continue to do so during my first year of grad school. I also work as a graduate assistant for the Office for Graduate Life and Diversity. In grad school, I hope to study more about AI and its evolving role in media. Outside of school and work, I also love reading, iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and my dog Rosalina.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: Connecting with others who are just as passionate about mass communication and media as me!

I was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, I went on to complete my Bachelor's degree in Communication Studies. I've previously interned in Fashion PR where I found myself very interested in social media marketing. I will be studying Mass Communication and hope to find my way into sports media or marketing in the future.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A:  The amazing faculty at SDSU has really allowed me to grow comfortable and I feel very prepared for my upcoming journey in the JMS program.

My Name is Ifairi O. Clarke, I was born on the small island of Antigua and Barbuda. I was raised in the Bronx and Jersey City. When I was in my early 20's, I joined the United States Marine Corps. After leaving the USMC I attend California State University Los Angeles where I got my Bachelor's in Communication. I am currently working at Naval Medical Center, San Diego as a Administrative Support Assistant.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: The Communication.

I have just completed my studies at the University of Arizona, earning my Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Marketing. While at the University of Arizona, I immersed myself in social media marketing and generated relevant content for the school's platforms. Now, I am thrilled to be heading back to San Diego and embarking on my next chapter in the School of Journalism and Media Studies.

I am an Active-Duty Communication Strategy and Operations Officer for the U.S. Marine Corps. I previously worked at 2nd Marine Division, the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Marine Forces Reserve headquarters in New Orleans, Louisana. I'm looking forward to studying research methods and how to apply them to my military profession. I'm also looking forward to studying mis/disinformation and its effects in the information environment.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: Being surrounded by people who are passionate about the mass communication field.

I'm a five-time Emmy and Golden Mike award-winning journalist with almost two decades of experience spanning three continents and two languages (English and Spanish). I have worked as a broadcast, print, and digital reporter, as well as a producer and executive producer in various media companies. As a mother of two and an immigrant, I'm passionate about parenting and immigration/border issues. I'm excited to deepen my knowledge and perspective on journalism from an academic standpoint.

Before joining the SDSU JMS cohort, I served as the first ship's company Public Affairs Officer aboard USS BOXER (LHD 4). While I am an Active Duty Navy PAO now, I was previously in the Navy Reserve, so I have both civilian and Navy public affairs experience to build from. I have my Masters of Social Work, but haven't been in school since 2007, so I look forward to learning a lot at SDSU -- not only about the latest technology available to communicators, but also how to best incorporate data and research into professional products.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: It is exciting to be a part of the hallmark year for the SDSU PAO program - celebrating two decades in 2024! I love that I am afforded the opportunity to learn from other military communicators, as well as civilian public affairs peers.

I am a 2024 graduate of Cal State Fullerton, College of Communications. I have spent the last four years studying communications and public relations while working as a Communications Assistant with the University. I am looking forward to continuing my education at SDSU as well as teaching classes to undergraduate students.

Before joining SDSU's School of Journalism and Media Studies, I gained extensive experience in public relations, communications, and digital media through various roles, including working with a strategic communications agency and a nonprofit organization focused on minority communities. I have developed a strong foundation in media relations, content creation, and program management, while also honing my public speaking skills. At SDSU, I aim to deepen my understanding of mass communications and digital media, particularly in the context of storytelling and its impact on social change. I am excited to collaborate with local media outlets and faculty members to further refine my skills and contribute to meaningful projects.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: So far, I've really enjoyed the opportunity to connect with the faculty and various departments on campus. These interactions have really given me a preview of the supportive and collaborative environment at SDSU. I'm excited to further become involved in the community.

I graduated from California State University, Dominguez Hills in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Public Relations and a minor in Digital Graphics. I then began working for Children's Institute in South Los Angeles, where I support families facing homelessness, lower-income families, and those with migrant status through Head Start preschool programs. As a family service worker, I build one-on-one connections with families, educate them about their children's health, and conduct regular check-ups and home visitations. In my upcoming graduate program, I am eager to build connections, take advantage of the internship program, and deepen my research into advertising.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: This is my first year in the graduate program at SDSU, and I am eager to start school. So far, the professors and staff have been very welcoming, which I greatly appreciate. #GreatCommunity

Growing up in Vietnam, I've cultivated a strong appreciation for the country's rich heritage and the endless opportunities it offers, driven by its dynamic economy and diverse history. With a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Communication from the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam and a Master's Degree in Management of radio, television, and electronic network newspapers from the Academy of Journalism and Communication at Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, my academic journey laid a strong foundation in media management, journalism, and public relations. Upon graduation, my connection with academia persisted as I became a lecturer in Communications and Presentation Skills at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam. I believe that studying at JMS will offer me a unique opportunity to learn about Mass Communication theory from a Western point of view as well as gain a deeper understanding of these differences and learn how to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: I am very excited about the opportunity to learn from experienced professors and collaborate with fellow students who share my passion for communication at JMS.

My name is Alex Hopp and I am 24 years old! I was born and raised here in San Diego but I currently live in Los Angeles and work at a public relations agency. I am looking to broaden my expertise beyond what I do on a day-to-day basis at work by conducting research into advanced public relations and communications methods. Specifically, I want to expand into A&R, talent representation and publicity.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: SDSU seems like such a welcoming and vibrant campus, I cannot wait to get to know everyone!

I am a communication strategy and operations officer in the United States Marine Corps. My primary work experience has been at III Marine Expeditionary Force in Okinawa, Japan focused on communicating the strategic importance of the U.S. support to allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific. I am looking forward to collaborating with professionals from across the JMS program and learning from their past experiences. I am excited to experiment and improve my understanding of media studies and how it relates to the mission of public affairs in the Department of Defense.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A:The professionalism of my peers and professors.

I am an international student from Sweden. I came to the U.S in 2019 to attend SDSU and I graduated last May with a BA from the School of JMS. I am excited to further my knowledge in all things Media/Communication/PR. My work experiences span from industries like technology, sustainable direct-to-consumer goods and most recently construction, but my very first job was at a fish market in small town Sweden.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: I have really enjoyed the faculty and their willingness to work with the needs of their students, some I knew from my undergraduate experience and it is wonderful how responsive and helpful they all are.

I am a Communication Strategy and Operations Officer in the Marine Corps with over seven years of experience. I have been deployed alongside State Department and international communication teams. I have a passion for effective communication in complex environments. I am eager to apply my mass communication and media studies knowledge to improve communication strategies and better connect with diverse audiences.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: Learning the depth of detail and analysis required to craft an effective communication plan.

In 2014, I graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Georgia Tech in Atlanta. After college, I joined the military as a Navy Public Affairs Officer and served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan in Japan. My other public affairs jobs were for the Navy SEALs in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and for Submarine Group Ten in Kings Bay, Georgia. In 2024, I graduated with a Masters of Art in Defense and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College in Rhode Island.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: My public affairs jobs have been in remote and independent roles, so I am enjoying studying with other public relations professionals and academics.

I am an officer in the Marine Corps currently in the Public Affairs Officer program here at the School of Journalism and Media Studies. I have spent the last three years working in Camp Pendleton and deploying through the Pacific. I am excited to be part of this program and to build a community with my peers. I am looking forward to learning more about public relations outside of the military and how to apply research to increase the effectiveness of communication.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: The students alongside me have been inspirational and have a wealth of experience to learn from.

I am in the U.S. Navy and serve as a Public Affairs Officer. My last job was with Naval Special Warfare Center. I will be pursuing my Masters of Arts in Mass Communication. I am excited to expand my knowledge on social media and how it relates to public relations through application of theory.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: The community and years of experience.

I am a native of Louisiana and I commissioned through OCS. I served as the Assistant Public Affairs Officer on USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69). Prior to SDSU, I was the Installation Public Affairs Officer at Naval Support Activity, Naples. While at SDSU, I am looking to hone my public affairs knowledge with education and build my skillset with academic and professional accreditation.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: The summer course was definitely a challenge, but Dr. Sweetser was an obvious masters of her craft. The mix between theory and practical knowledge has made the program very useful to me compared to any undergrad classes I have taken in the past.

I am from Lancaster, Virginia, and have served in the Navy since 2018. Prior to attending SDSU, I was the Public Affairs Officer for the USS America in Sasebo, Japan. I really enjoyed my summer courses with Dr. Sweetser because it opened my eyes to areas of the field I never knew existed. I can't wait to continue in the fall and make new friends in the PR field.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: I have enjoyed the fact that I have learned more about PR in four weeks from Dr. Sweetser than the Navy taught me in four years.

In my undergraduate degree at SDSU, I majored in JMS with an emphasis in Media Studies and minored in Film. I currently work as a Thesis Publishing Associate at Montezuma Publishing and an Editor for the Daily Aztec's Arts & Culture section. I will also be serving as the Vice President for SDSU's chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists. I look forward to studying and conducting research related to media representation.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: I have enjoyed the flexibility and different courses offered.

Hello! My name is Noemi Portillo (she/her/ella) and I graduated from SDSU in spring 2024 with a BA in Public Relations and English. After interning at San Diego Magazine and JSA+Partners, I hope to go into sports PR or crisis communication. I love reading, watching baseball and exploring new coffee shops in San Diego. I am looking forward to continuing to learn from everyone in JMS and getting to work with new people from all walks of life!

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: I love being able to keep connections with faculty and staff I had as professors in my undergrad and the sense of community JMS has already created for us!

I was born in Detroit, Michigan, and I am a graduate of Iowa State University. I am a Communication Strategy and Operations Officer for the United States Marine Corps. I have been deployed to ten locations throughout the globe to support USMC, USN, and EUCOM communication objectives and worked in joint environments with sister services, NATO allies, partners, and several interagency organizations at my last duty station. I am currently enrolled as a graduate student in the School of Journalism and Media Studies at San Diego State University to earn my Master of Arts degree in Mass Communication.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: I have enjoyed learning completely different things than what I originally learned about public affairs.

I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington in 2018 with a Bachelor's degree in Communication Studies and commissioned in the United States Marine Corps in 2019. I spent the next five years as a Communication Strategy and Operations oOfficer, where I deployed to support Operation Allies Welcome and participated in NATO exercises in Europe. My military service recently selected me to attend SDSU to obtain my Master's degree, and my wife and I moved to San Diego in June 2024. I am excited to learn more about public relations theory and how to apply it as a military public affairs officer.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: I have thoroughly enjoyed learning how to conduct qualitative and quantitative research to support a public relations campaign.

I'm a U.S. Navy Public Affairs Officer. I've been serving in the U.S. Navy for 19 years with no end in sight. My previous command before attending San Diego State University was at Submarine Squadron 15 in Guam. At that command, I was in charge of crisis communication in drills, advising my commodore, and working with all the submarines stationed and that visited tropical Guam. 

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: I've enjoyed working with the other students and professor. It's a fast and furious program and I've learned so much already. 

I’m an active duty officer in the Marine Corps currently fortunate enough to be in the Public Affairs Officer program here at the School of Journalism and Media Studies. Before coming here, I spent the better part of the past five years stationed in Okinawa, Japan. I’m excited to be part of the program here and to work alongside some other fantastic Public Affairs Officers. I’m looking forward to doing research on Marine Corps communication efforts in support of recent changes in the Corps.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far?
A: The people — I’ve met so many talented communicators among my fellow students and faculty, who have all taught me a lot.

I am an active duty officer in the Navy, so I was stationed in Japan and working for Submarine Group 7 prior to coming to the grad program. As a Navy Public Affairs Officer, I write news stories on the Navy, respond to reporters' questions and provide vital insight and guidance to top-level Navy decision-makers. I am looking to study mass communication theory and research methods while in the graduate program.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far?
A: I have enjoyed being surrounded by and learning from my thoughtful and intelligent fellow students. I've also enjoyed the JMS professors whose passion for teaching makes learning more enjoyable.

I am a Marine officer of over 10 years, husband and father. My adventures have taken me across the globe working alongside many foreign militaries. I am excited to be part of the JMS program to continue my professional growth and development.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far?
A: Developing a deeper understanding of theory and its application to PR in the workplace, and learning from peers with a wide range of experiences.

I am originally from St. Paul, Minnesota, and have worked in Navy public affairs for nearly 17 years. I started as a technician writing press releases, taking photos and creating video products. For almost 10 years, I have been a Public Affairs Officer, spending the past three years in Coronado, California, leading communication for West Coast Navy EOD units. Currently, I am a full-time graduate student working on a Master's in Mass Communication and Media Studies.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far?
A: The people are the best part about the SDSU program. I study with students from around the world, and the staff has a variety of experiences to share with us.

I am a Public Affairs Officer for the United States Navy who most recently worked on a Naval warship with the Marine Corps and deployed to the South China Sea. I am looking to study Mass Communication and Public Relations in order to bring that knowledge back to my service.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far?
A: Interacting with international and civilian students.

I am a digital marketer specializing in paid media and integrated marketing campaigns. My background in retail, e-commerce, and non-profit organizations has provided me with a well-rounded understanding of the marketing process, including content strategy, campaign reporting, and experimentation. Prior to beginning graduate school, I attended University of California, San Diego and completed my Bachelor of Arts in Communication. Throughout this program, I am hoping to expand upon my interest in multicultural marketing and contribute to effective advertising strategies for all identities.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far?
A: I have enjoyed the ability to incorporate my interests into my class projects and research. The JMS program offers unique courses that reflect up-to-date trends in mass communications fields. Because of this, I am able to have discussions on real-time trends as they become popularized.

I am an active-duty Marine Corps Public Affairs Officer with just over 15 years of service. I have really enjoyed the last few months in an academic atmosphere dedicated to public relations theory and research. My goal is to identify best practices I can adopt from here and apply them to my military profession. 

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: I have really enjoyed the mentorship from the awesome faculty at the School of Journalism and Media Studies.

I am a Navy Public Affairs Officer for nine years representing the Navy to members of the media and the public as well as providing public affairs counsel to Navy leaders. I am a graduate of Texas A&M University. He has been stationed in Tennessee, Japan, Hawaii, and Washington D.C. I am currently a student in the SDSU JMS Public Affairs Officers Program.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far?
A: I've enjoyed learning about all the theory and academic side of what I have already been applying in my career as a public affairs officer. Using the research planning methods I have learned here will allow me to succeed when I return to the fleet.

I am a Public Affairs Officer in the U.S. Navy and am part of the JMS military cohort. I've lived and worked all over the world over the past 11 years, telling the Navy's story. I have experience in media relations, crisis response, and strategic communication planning. My goal in the graduate program is to increase my knowledge and understanding of public relations and improve as a practitioner as much as possible.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far?
A: I've enjoyed getting to know and work with all of my military and civilian classmates.

I was born and raised in Thousand Oaks, CA., before moving to New Jersey where I attended Seton Hall University. I studied public relations and leadership, and worked as an intern at both a PR firm and with an influencer talent manager. I am currently studying Mass Communication and working on a thesis where I am looking at the phenomenon of "deinfluencing" on TikTok.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far?
A: I really like that you can tailor classes to your interests, since there are so many various avenues within the Mass Communication field. I am also a grad assistant so it is very fun and rewarding being able to teach undergrad students what I am passionate about as well!

I'm a Public Affairs Officer in the Navy. I served in Bahrain the last three years and served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford prior to that. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Film, Video and Media Studies from Western Michigan University. I'm looking to learn more about public relations and mass communication in the SDSU graduate program.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far?
A: The wonderful JMS staff.

I have been working in the public relations field for the last three years. I started off working with clients in the entertainment, fashion, and non-profit industries based in Los Angeles and New York City, and have ventured into the hospitality industry since moving to San Diego. While at SDSU, I am hoping to deepen my knowledge in mass communication, especially when it comes to diversity and inclusivity in the media.  My ultimate goal is to elevate my career in the public relations industry and become an impactful storyteller.

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far?
A: I have developed an interest in the research of minority representation in pop culture since joining the program. Having Dr. Nate as a professor has truly broadened my perspective in this realm of media!

I am an active-duty naval officer and experienced communicator with over 13 years in public affairs. I have had the pleasure of leading strategic communication teams on three continents, with previous assignments including three years in Guam and two years in Italy. Most recently, I worked with the amphibious naval warships and the U.S. Marines, and it was an incredible learning experience. I am excited to be at San Diego State University's School of Journalism and Media Studies to advance my professional knowledge with great people!

Q: What have you enjoyed about the SDSU grad program so far? 
A: There is such a wide variety of people to interact with, and I have loved getting to know and learn alongside them. Our professors are so passionate and make every class a great experience!