MA in Communication

Scott Perdue, 2025

I came in as a Communications graduate student with a background in education and am now looking forward to participating in the PhD program here at George Mason and sharpening my expertise to become a college professor.

What was your specific area of study and how did you choose it? If you completed a dissertation, thesis, or capstone, please describe it.

I researched civil disobedience in education for my capstone. 

How did your academic experiences in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences impact you? 

I went to Professor Samoilenko's character assassination conference and had one of the best experiences in my entire academic career. Being able to explore the practical side of my research with members of the field was a true privilege. Additionally, getting to work with professors such as Professor Craig, Professor Nicotera, and Professor Gibson has been an absolute joy! 

Which accomplishments during your time at George Mason are you most proud of? 

Making it into the PhD program. When I started my time at George Mason, I was very unsure of myself and unsure of what quality of a scholar I could be. I genuinely almost left the program during my first semester because I lacked so much confidence. My time at George Mason has given me the confidence I have always wanted. Seeing myself receive these kinds of awards has helped to reinforce that confidence. 

Are there faculty or staff members who made a difference during your George Mason career? 

Professor Nicotera, Professor Gibson, and Professor Craig. Also, shout out to Brittany Sanders! 

What advice would you give to an incoming cohort of graduate students? 

You made it here. You are good enough. You have valuable insight. Trust your professors, they genuinely mean it when they say they are here to help. Stay the course; you will succeed. 

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals? 

I will be participating in the PhD program and will hopefully develop the skills to become an instructor at the college level.