CSUN Journalism Alumni

Who’s ready to join the JAA?

This Monday, students from the department will cross over from being students to joining us as alumni! Congratulations to the Class of 2026!

For Alexia Barajas, was always the school she pictured herself at. Growing up in SoCal, the campus felt familiar, inspiring and full of possibility. While her first impression of public relations was shaped by pop culture, CSUN showed her the deeper meaning behind storytelling, connection and creativity. Surrounded by passionate students and new ideas, she grew into the person and professional she hoped to become.

Through , and her courses in journalism and recreation and tourism management, Alexia found community, mentorship and purpose. She also served as an Election Committee Member through . Some of the conversations that stayed with her most went beyond assignments and deadlines, focusing instead on ethics, communication, meaningful work and the power storytelling has in shaping how people connect with the world around them. Those experiences continue to guide her career today.

Since graduating, Alexia has worked across the private, public and nonprofit sectors, from supporting clients like , and at a marketing agency, to working in education and now healthcare at a nonprofit serving the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys. Across every role, she has remained grounded in the values that matter most to her: intersectionality, communication and community.

Her advice for upcoming graduates: imagine the classroom as your world. Some days you will be teaching and others you’ll be taking notes. They’re all lessons, so never stop learning.

As a first-generation Latina and proud daughter of immigrants, found a space at where she felt seen, supported and encouraged to dream bigger. What started as a love for storytelling, music and entertainment became a career path through journalism, thanks to the community, professors and experiences that helped her find her spark.

CSUN taught her to adapt, work hard and trust her voice as a storyteller while balancing school, work, internships and life. Since graduating, Lupe has covered music festivals, interviewed artists and creatives she grew up admiring, worked red carpets and created entertainment content rooted in authenticity and culture.

One of her proudest accomplishments has been building a career while staying true to herself and her community. Being recognized by CSUN as an alumna is a full circle moment and a reminder of how far she’s come.

Her advice to future graduates: apply for the opportunity, send the email, pitch the story and put yourself out there, even when it feels intimidating. Stay curious, stay consistent and never underestimate the power of community and relationships.

Have you done some impeccable things throughout your career? Won some awards? Have some advice for recent grads?

Share your story with us, and we may spotlight you on our social media pages.

Submit your information here!

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