BA in Communication

Marissa Joyce, 2022

Name:

Marissa Joyce

Major(s):

BA in Communication
BA in English

Graduation year:

Spring 2022

What were some of your academic interests during your time at Mason? Was there a particular class or research area that held particular interest for you?

My English concentration was Creative Writing, so I was thrilled to have the opportunity to explore writing across various genres. My creative writing classes were also workshop-based, which was incredibly beneficial to me as both a reader and a writer. I learned from so many incredible writers and faculty during this time. I explored writing non-fiction, poetry, and for digital mediums, but fiction will always remain my primary area of interest.

As a Communication major, I was particularly fascinated by media theory, especially within the lens of the news and pop culture, and how our relationship to media can affect us psychologically. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I had the opportunity to take a virtual study abroad class based in Milan, Italy that focused on Italian media. One of my favorite memories was giving a presentation on the Italian rock band, Måneskin, and their rise to global popularity through social media!

Are there faculty or staff members who have made a difference thus far during your Mason career? Please give an example of this impact if possible.

Lisa Koch: Professor Koch’s ENGH 305 class was unforgettable! I developed so much as a writer and English student through our in-class discussions and the course’s emphasis on literary analysis.

Mary Winsor: Professor Winsor was an incredible creative writing instructor and mentor. I grew so much as a writer by taking her Intro to Creative Writing and Fiction Writing courses. She truly empowered her students and believed in our future aspirations as writers.

David Miller: Professor Miller’s Intro to Media Production class provided so much room for creative growth and exploration. I loved writing, filming, and directing my own videos. I still use the video production and post-production skills that I learned in his class in my current job!

What were your favorite class(es)?

ENGH 398: Fiction Writing, ENGH 305: Dimensions of Writing and Literature, COMM 208: Intro to Media Production, and COMM 302: Media Theory

Of which accomplishment(s) during your time at Mason are you most proud?

My greatest accomplishment was graduating Summa Cum Laude from George Mason University with my B.A. in English and Communication. I was so proud of all that I had accomplished in my undergraduate classes, internships, and my part-time position at Mason’s Office of University Branding and Marketing. It was so special to celebrate this life milestone with my friends and family!

How has your experience as part of CHSS impacted your life following graduation? How do you hope to use your degree and studies in the future?

My communication and writing courses at CHSS inspired me to pursue social media-focus internships and a part-time job at the Office of University Branding and Marketing. My education and work experience ultimately led me to my current position as Social Media Manager at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. My current role is an excellent fit for me, as it allows me to work in such a creatively driven and communication-focused role. I hope to become a CHSS student again in the near future as a graduate student.