Erika Alexandra Power

Erika Alexandra Power
Communications
College of Liberal Arts
2nd-year
San Diego, CA

What inspired you to pursue graduate school?
I was inspired to pursue graduate school because I wanted to grow both personally and professionally while creating more opportunities for my future and for my family. It was important to me to earn an advanced degree not only as an investment in myself, but also as a way to make my family proud and to honor the immense support they have given me throughout my academic journey.

As a Hispanic student, I was also motivated by the importance of representation and the hope of encouraging other Hispanic students to see advanced degrees as something they can pursue as well. That made the decision feel bigger than just me. Graduate school has given me the chance to deepen my knowledge, strengthen my skills, and prepare for the kind of impactful, leadership-driven career I want to build.

Why did you choose your current program or area of study?
I chose my current area of study in a pretty unexpected way. I started at community college with no clear idea of the path I wanted to take, and I did not even realize Communication was a field in the way I understand it now. What I did know was that I had always loved films, storytelling, and the power of words to shape how people think, feel, and connect.
Without realizing it, I ended up taking many Communication courses. Someone eventually said, “Why not make it your major?” At first, I was nervous because I had rarely heard of Communication as a field and felt pressure to pursue more traditional STEM paths due to concerns about practicality and job security. But I took a leap of faith, ended up loving it, and continued building from there.

What motivates you on challenging days in graduate school?
On challenging days, I remind myself of everything it took for me to get here—especially the love, sacrifice, and support my family has given me along the way. I think about the emotional and financial support they have poured into me, the belief they have had in me even on days when I felt drained, and everything this journey has required from all of us, not just me.

More than anything, I remind myself that I am not a quitter. I have overcome too much to stop now, and I am not someone who lets hard work go to waste. Remembering all of this keeps me going, because I know every difficult moment, sacrifice, and setback is shaping the future I want for myself and my family.

What has been your favorite part of your graduate experience so far?
My favorite part of graduate school has been allowing myself to experience it beyond just academics. During my undergraduate years, I moved frequently and had to restart my degree plan multiple times, which significantly delayed my graduation. Over time, my mindset shifted from making the most of college to simply wanting to check it off my list. I stopped being social, stopped joining clubs, and fell into a routine of going to class, the library, and home.

Because of that, I promised myself that graduate school would be different. I wanted to fully enjoy the experience and take advantage of everything it had to offer. I got involved in organizations, clubs, and opportunities that pushed me outside of that old routine, and saying yes to those experiences opened many doors. Getting involved reminded me of who I am at my core—someone who enjoys helping others and being part of something bigger than myself.
As I became more involved, I began receiving recognition and awards for my work, which brought a great sense of pride and gratitude. My favorite part of graduate school has been seeing what is possible when I allow myself to fully engage.

What achievement during grad school are you most proud of?
The achievement I am most proud of is how fully I chose to show up during graduate school. I decided I was not going to be a benchwarmer in my own life. I wanted to actively participate, say yes to opportunities, and push myself to grow both personally and professionally. This means even more when I compare it to my undergraduate experience. I graduated with no internships, no extracurricular involvement, and limited professional connections. In graduate school, I changed that. I completed two internships, built a strong professional network, and became involved in multiple organizations and programs. I am proud because it reflects how much can change when you invest in yourself and allow yourself to take up space.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a graduate student?
Graduate school reinforced that opportunities do not simply find you—you have to seek them out. Your experience is shaped by what you put into it, and if something is not what you want it to be, you must take initiative to change it. I have also learned to value my education more deeply. Seeing how my courses built on one another and applied to real life showed me that graduate school is not just about earning a degree, but about developing ways of thinking and working that shape how you move through the world. Growth does not happen passively—you have to actively pursue it.

How has your perspective on your field changed since you started your program?
When I first chose Communication, I did not fully understand how extensive the field was. Through networking, attending events, and following professionals in the field, I realized it is far more than what people often reduce it to. Communication is not just social media or writing—it is foundational to how organizations operate, connect, and build trust. That realization completely changed how I see the field.

What career path are you hoping to pursue after graduation?
While I have not pinpointed exactly where I want to land—whether in public relations, the beauty industry, defense, or entertainment—I know I want to pursue a career in strategic communication and PR. I want my work to help shape reputations and create meaningful impact. More than anything, I know I have the ambition and drive to build the career I want and pursue leadership opportunities over time.