Meet Our Students

Take a moment to meet some of our COML students and what they have to say about the program:

Naomi - (watch short testimonial)

Why Gonzaga? Why this program?  I first became aware of the program because I am a Gonzaga undergraduate alumnae.  I chose the program for its sense of community.  I love the GU culture and being a part of this program.  I also really appreciate that I get to choose the focus of my thesis.  It is exciting to select a topic that resonates with my personal goals.

Favorite course (so far) and why?  This is tough.  I have really enjoyed all courses, but I would say COML 509 - Social Dynamics of Communication Technology and the COML 520 Romanian Internship with the UN Refugee Resettlement program.

Advice for those considering applying to this program:  I would encourage those applying to really think about what they want and expect from a graduate program.  The Communication & Leadership Studies degree has a lot to offer and you can get so much out of the experience if you go after it.

What does COML mean to you (in 7 words or less!) ?  Empathetic, community, shared experiences and knowledge.

What do you do when you're not in class (work, family, hobbies, etc)?  I work full-time at an adventure travel company called ROW Adventures.  The Inland Northwest is a giant playground for active people and in my free time I kayak, ski and spend time with my fiancee and dog!

Favorite Movie:  City Lights by Charlie Chaplin

Best book you've ever read:  Anna Karenina by Tolstoy

Share something that is on your "bucket list" or is a dream/goal for the future:  Finish my thesis!

Stephanie  - (Watch short testimonial)

Why Gonzaga? Why this program?  I love Gonzaga's rich history and winning attitude.  Gonzaga has a great reputation and prides itself on giving its students an excellent education to not only learn, but lead.  I am proud to be a Zag!

Favorite course (so far) and why?  Leadership and Imagination was my favorite course to date.  It was a 3-day intensive where you met other students from all over the world.  Our class formed a bond immediately.  My final project was life-changing.

Advice for those considering applying to this program:  Come prepared to learn!  I was intimidated in the beginning because my first stint in college wasn't prett. But 21 years later, I brought knowledge and experience; both life and work experience that I incorporated into my studies.  You'll absolutely love it!

What does COML mean to you (in 7 words or less!) ?  Communicating in a way that yields effective results.

What do you do when you’re not in class (work, family, hobbies, etc)?  I work at a TV station, I own a business, I am a mother of 2 boys, a wife, an avid snow skier and water enthusiast...oh, and I love cycling, too!

Favorite Movie:  Forrest Gump - I always root for the underdog!

Best book you've ever read:  The Bible

Share something that is on your “bucket list” or is a dream/goal for the future:  I want to teach for Gonzaga University in Europe!