Communication Arts @ UIW | UIW Communication Arts Testimonials

Testimonials

With seemingly infinite career opportunities, graduates work as writers, producers, directors, editors, public relations specialists, videographers, filmmakers, broadcast journalists, advertising specialists, event planners, social media specialists, teachers, web specialists, bilingual journalists, convergent media specialists, among others.

Student Videos

Current undergraduate, ABM, graduate, and alumni provide first hand accounts that will describe the learning community and environment in the Communication Arts Department.

Current Students

Abigail Velez | Major: Communication Arts | Minor: Political Science
Within the time that I have been in the Communication Arts department at UIW, I have met so many helpful and influential people and have gained an abundance of knowledge! As a transfer student, I was nervous about how smooth the transition would go entering this department, but not only was I welcomed with open arms, I was invited to join every aspect of the department! I am now a sportswriter for the Logos, a multimedia journalist for UIWtv, and a star student in my classes! The professors are willing to help in every way possible and prioritize the growth of their students! My peers in my classes are encouraging and uplifting and have never hesitated to send me an e-mail of kind words and encouragement! My advisors are helpful, knowledgeable, and insightful when it comes to getting the best experience out of my university life, along with providing a clear-cut path to graduation. Without the opportunities and amenities that UIW provides for me, I would not be as successful of a student, and prepared for my career right after graduation.
Ana Lopez de Lara Hernandez | Major: Communication Arts
I have had such a great experience with the COMM ARTS program. The department offers a lot of hands-on opportunities like LOGOS, KUIW, and UIWtv. As a sophomore, I have learned so much in such a short period. UIW has a marvelous community that is surrounded by supportive professors and students that truly take their time to help one another.
Antonio Bocanegra II | Major: Communication Arts
As a first-generation college student, being in the COMM ARTS department is a remarkable and satisfying experience, even in my second year in the program. The pathway that I encountered and joined the COMM ARTS department was from my high school broadcast journalism teacher, a COMM ARTS graduate, and UIW alumnus. Since day one, I have been challenged as an individual to grow and adventure within the department. Learning so much from the excellent professors we have in the department enlightens me to discover and endeavor new academic and individual experiences. I have made several connections with the student inside the department. This department has helped me continue evolving within my passion for multimedia production with state-of-the-art equipment and being a part of UIWtv as the Operations Manager. The key takeaway from the COMM ARTS department is that there is always an opportunity for you to adventure. I'm delighted to see what's in store for me, the rest of my peers, and the upcoming students that come to UIW inside the COMM ARTS department!
Drew Lutz | Major: Communication Arts
My experience with COMM ARTS has been great just in my first and second year. I have learned so much, and have gotten to learn from great professors. I have also been able to make great relationships with the students in COMM ARTS and I can’t wait to grow and make more relationships with these awesome people. I believe this department has helped me not only with my Communications major but also has helped me with my people skills and becoming a better communicator. I am very blessed to have found this department and am excited to see where it takes me in the future.
Justin Kraiza | Major: Communication Arts
My experiences at UIW have been nothing short of insightful and engaging. The Communication Arts department has taught me the value of self-determination and hard work. I genuinely feel humbled to be working as Assistant Editor for the Logos and hope to use this knowledge in the prospective field of journalism.
Maddie Campbell | Major: Communication Arts
Being apart of the COMM ARTS Department has been nothing short of amazing. The people I’ve met, the professors I’ve had and even the classes I’ve taken have all taught me so much. Everyone here is so accepting and encouraging, which makes me want to work even harder and create more amazing projects with my fellow classmates and friends. It’s truly a family and I can’t imagine myself being apart of any other department.
Maddy Valera | Major: Communication Arts
I have learned so much while being a part of the UIW COMM ARTS community. I’ve met so many awesome friends, helpful professors, and learned a lot about myself in general. I’m so happy to go to class everyday being able to express my creative mind and get feedback and support from my peers.
Miranda Van Doren | Major: Communication Arts | Minor: Political Science
As a transfer student, I was worried that it would take me extra time to feel like I "belong" at UIW, but in a matter of days I began to feel at home. While all areas of UIW are rooted in community and compassion, I feel that these elements are especially strong within the Communication Arts department, as its faculty and staff consistently make efforts to reach out to students to make sure that our academic and social needs are met. Also, it's great becuase you're surrounded by other students who value understanding and seek to use media to express stories, thoughts, and ideas to a broader audience—and I think that's really inspiring.
Zoe Del Rosario Perez | Major: Communication Arts
The Communication Arts Department has provided me with outstanding growth. I am beyond grateful for all the connections I’ve been able to make within the department. Through my work with UIWtv, I have been able to develop new skills and interests in the field of tv broadcasting. COMM ARTS is truly a family; everyone in the faculty is there to help you work towards your goals.

Bachelor's Degree

Aaron Garcia | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of May 2013
I enjoyed the best 4 years of my life at UIW pursuing my Bachelor's degree in Communication Arts; graduated in May 2013. Through the program I was able to make lifelong friends and acquire the skills needed to advance my career. I also met my fiancée through a mutual student honor society. My life was positively impacted by UIW and this program, I highly recommend Communication Arts to anyone interest in video production, broadcast news, journalism, radio, and digital media.
Angelo Mitchell | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of May 2020
My experience at UIW came at the most crucial time in my life; after I retired from the Air Force. UIW gave me the path and platform to figure out my future. The skills I’ve learned from journalism have provided me the confidence I needed to believe in myself and to know, I’m on the right path. It has been an unbelievable experience contributing to each of the media platforms, i.e., the Logos, UIWtv and KUIW Radio. Last but not least, the relationships I’ve established along the way have become lifelong mentorships and friendships. I truly have fallen in love with my alma mater! Go Cards!
Annette Garcia | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of December 2006
Inspiring professors at UIW motivated me to dream big. Their encouragement gave me the confidence to go from college student to seasoned news reporter on the frontlines. As a manager at Spectrum News, I now get to pass along the knowledge and ethics taught to me.
Barbara Trevino | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of December 2013
The Communication Arts program at the University of the Incarnate Word set forth a strong educational foundation, which enabled me to succeed in my professional career. The courses and hands-on practicums provided a unique learning experience, which was designed to foster transferable skills. The knowledge developed throughout my undergraduate studies led to internships with KABB Fox 29 and the San Antonio Current. Now, as a recognized thought leader in the tech industry, I'm able to apply the tools and experience from my studies in sales, operations, enablement, business systems, and marketing.
Bethany Melendez | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of May 2020
I will always be grateful to have been a part of the UIW Communications community. I am lucky to have had professors who challenged me and peers who encouraged me to be the best student I could be. Thank you to the COMM department for the warmest welcome and the most fulfilling four years of my life.
Crystal Campos-Rosales | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of May 2006
My time at UIW helped prepare me for a career in public relations. The faculty at UIW are experts in their fields and their expertise, leadership, and devotion to helping students thrive in the professional world make UIW unique. The pillars of faith and service that the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word built the foundation of the university on remain a guiding light for me when making both professional and personal decisions.
Danielle Sheldon-Espinoza | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of December 2006
Attending UIW was an incredible experience, one that transformed my outlook on the world and in my work. The COMM ARTS Department was my favorite place to be and where I was encouraged to push for my goals. I traveled the world because of UIW and came back to San Antonio to build a strong business in marketing, public relations, and events. I attribute my success as an entrepreneur and the incredible work I've been blessed to do with the support and education I received at UIW. To this day Mr. Mercer continues to keep in touch. This says so much about UIW's core values and dedication to its students. I am honored to be UIW Alumna.
Erika Vela | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of May 2009
Coming from a small South Texas town, I came to UIW with high hopes and big dreams. UIW became my home away from home with its small community, and helped to maintain my humble heart. The many life lessons and values learned at UIW were not only applied in a successful career as a newspaper journalist, but also helped me to launch a new career path in program management of U.S. military contracts. The friendships I made at UIW are priceless amongst my peers and dedicated instructors, with whom I remain close with today. I’m grateful to UIW for enriching my life spiritually, socially, and professionally. Carrying UIW Alumna status is an honor and an achievement I’m most proud.
Gaby Alvarado, B.A. Communication Arts | Class of December 2011 | M.A.A. Communication Arts | Class of December 2014
My academic journey at UIW played a crucial role in defining who I am personally and professionally. UIW has instilled its core values of faith, innovation, education, service, and truth into my everyday practice. With this mindset, I have had the opportunity to work at large local non-profits such as the San Antonio Zoological Society and Silver & Black Give Back, now known as Spurs Give. My Communication Arts degree from UIW has given me the confidence to pursue my passions in life, quality education to be a top performer, and faith in myself to continue to grow in all aspects of life.
Jackie Velez | B.A. in Communication Arts and English | Class of May 2019
UIW has had such a wonderful impact on me! I’m especially grateful for the professors in the Communication Arts Department. One professor I have to mention is Dr. Carbajal who has had the greatest impact on me. She has been there for me, especially during the times I dealt with personal issues. I can’t thank her enough for being so supportive! I’m also grateful for the organizations I participated in - the Logos, UIWtv, and KUIW. These organizations helped me tremendously! It is because of the skills that I learned at UIW that I have been able to apply them after graduating with a journalism concentration. As of now, I’m working as a writing tutor at San Antonio College. Recently, I submitted a proposal to the WLN Journal on behalf of the SAC Writing Center. I’ve also been working on several other projects. I’m writing personal stories with a group of incredible women – Teatro Esperanza. I read my work live on Facebook through the Esperanza Peace and Justice Facebook page. My work will be part of a podcast and publication down the line. I’ve been a guest on the Curious Observer Podcast, which is now on YouTube and Spotify. Most recently, I’ve been featured on Texas Public Radio’s “Worth Repeating: Fight or Flight.” In the episode, I tell the story of the time I dealt with a personal issue while attending UIW. The video is on the TPR website, Facebook, YouTube, and Spotify. It’s wonderful to see the accomplishments I’ve made since graduating in May 2019. I’m truly grateful for all that I have learned from the COMM ARTS Department. I can’t wait to see where I go from here!
Jenna Gonzalez | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of May 2011
I graduated from the University of the Incarnate Word in 2011. Attending the University of the Incarnate Word was very important for my professional development. Currently, I am an Account Specialist for a Third Party Administrator, in which I manage the largest account for health insurance benefits. From the title and industry, it is not evident how valuable the skills and confidence I learned at UIW; however, it is the core foundation of how I gained this position. One of my professors was Hank McDonnell, and it was very encouraging to see him manage so much and transfer those skills to his students. In hindsight, leadership and confidence were well established while I attended this university. I also use many of the skills from several different courses at UIW, such as creating marketing material for my clients and their employees. I manage monthly presentations for clients online or in person. I also create training materials for my peers, and lastly, I write a lot. Creating policy and procedures for not only the company but for clients as well. I am forever grateful to UIW. Since then, I have also achieved an MBA, and I have a health and life license. UIW provided a great amount of education and fired an ambitious part of me I still have today. As another professor, Steve, said, "Diamonds are not forever; education is forever."
Katya Moffitt | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of December 2020
My time at UIW has really shaped me into who I am today. Both the students and professors are what made my time here so memorable. They taught me so much and pushed me to better myself in every aspect. I had the privilege to work as a part of KUIW Radio and that helped me shed my once shy exterior. I learned so much about myself along this journey and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I have met some of the most amazing people in the Comm Arts department. I genuinely can’t imagine my college experience without them and I will cherish the memories forever.
Madalyn Mendoza, B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of May 2014
In the six years since my final class at UIW, I've managed to diversify my career beyond my focus, which was broadcast journalism. Shortly after my May 2014 graduation, I began working for KENS-5, reporting on high school sports for both the TV and digital platforms. In January 2015, I became a digital reporter for the San Antonio Express-News and mySA.com, where I write for our online and print audiences. My work with SAEN has helped me develop a partnership with ESPN San Antonio, where I host a weekly radio segment now in its third year. My years spent in UIW's Communication Arts Department helped nurture my strengths in journalism and supported me to become the multi-faceted journalist I am today. The intimate community gave me space to get the one-on-one guidance in all areas of journalism -- from working a news desk to ethics to laws -- so that I felt confident in my career when I walked the stage into the real world.
Maria Jose Guajardo Adame | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of December 2017
Studying Communication Studies at UIW, opened the doors to a bright future. I got to learn from the best professors in different fields. Communications is an extensive career that can lead to confusion, but when I graduated, I felt like I knew a lot from many fields that I felt prepared to work in all of them. Thank you, COMM ARTS, for empowering me to conquer and achieve my dreams.
Michelle Krieger, B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of May 2020
My time at UIW was great! Not only did I get to learn how to do what I love, I was able to work with KUIW which really helped me develop some of the skills that helped me land my new position. The support of my amazing co-workers allowed me to create content not only to promote the station but help me get ahead.
Dr. Renee Cervantes, B.A in Communication Arts | Class of May 2006
My UIW Communication Arts degree served as a solid foundation for my career in newspaper and television reporting, public relations, and even development (fundraising). UIW is a tight-knit community that helps students discover and strengthen their talents through a first-rate education. I still return to campus every year to visit with Comm Arts Faculty as they always treat me like family!
Samantha Rendon | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of May 2011
I am so thankful for my journey at UIW and for the professors whose insight and education prepared me for the workforce. From writing columns for Logos and working with Professor Mercer, to video production and editing in Professor McDonnell's class, I had no idea that the possibilities that I had then would benefit me so much for who I am today. As a Communications & Marketing Director of a local non-profit, we can juggle different hats, but with my education and hands-on experiences at UIW, it has helped shaped my career. Time seems like it was short, but I will forever hold on to that knowledge.
Sophia Dove, B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of December 2014
My experience at UIW helped me develop skills and relationships that encouraged me to launch my own business, pursue graduate school, and remain relevant in the field of communication. The faculty, to this day, remains an essential part of my personal and professional development.
Valerie Lopez | B.A. in Communication Arts | Class of May 2017
UIW helped me develop my skills and utilize them to create the foundation I needed to build my career. From Day One as a student, I knew UIW was the place for me to learn and grow in education and in life. I will always be grateful for my time at UIW.
Yesenia Caloca, B.A. in Communication Arts | M.Ed. | Class of December 2012
Being a part of the Bilingual Communication Arts program helped me become a more well rounded and bicultural professional. Whether that's leading service mission trips locally or abroad or creating marketing content to different audiences. I attribute this to the supportive and dedicated UIW faculty and staff that guided me along the way.

ABM Degree

*Our ABM program is an accelerated program of study that allows students to earn their Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in 5-years.

Anna-Alizette Ruiz, B.A. in Communication Arts | M.A. in Communication Arts | Class of December 2013
I started college when social media was launching as a new form for companies and organizations to get their message out. I'm grateful that my professors at UIW saw this as an opportunity for us to learn and grow our skills in multiple mediums so that we were prepared for the real world. Their care and insight is something I take with me at every job opportunity.
Brittany Nelson, B.A. in Communication Arts | M.A. in Communication Arts | Class of May 2017
My degree path in the Communications Arts Department at the University of the Incarnate Word prepared me for the start of my career in the communications field. I am a civilian Public Affairs Specialist for the U.S. Army where I perform a vast variety of tasks. I write articles, photograph events, produce videos, create newsletters and communications products. UIW has afforded me to land this amazing opportunity with the Army. I am blessed to travel across the country and cover events of our Soldier athletes as they compete in order to tell the Army story (before COVID-19). The diverse courses in the COMM ARTS program gave me the tools I needed for my job.
Jorge Jones, B.A. in Communication Arts | M.A. in Communication Arts | Class of May 2018
The communications program at UIW transformed me into the professional I am today. This program gives you the right tools and guidance for a successful career in the communications industry. The highly-experienced faculty members of this program made sure I was successful in every possible way while I was a student. Today, as an alum, I feel blessed and thankful that I can reach out to any of them for any advice I might need.
Mariana Veraza, B.A. in Communication Arts | M.A. in Communication Arts | Class of December 2013
I am extremely thankful for the education I received at UIW. It is because of the tools and the connections I made while studying my accelerated bachelor’s to master’s in communication that I was able to get industry experience and a job right after graduation. I worked in media for 6 years and became a news anchor for a prime time newscast and currently I am the Public Information Officer for Harlandale ISD. The skills I was able to learn at UIW prepared me for the jobs I have been able to have and molded me into the professional that I am today. My advice to all current students is to take advantage of all the opportunities UIW offers. Participating in internships within your field of study will not only give you more hands-on experience but will also allow you to see what exactly you want to focus on after graduation. Enjoy your time at UIW, make the best of it and NEVER give up on your dreams and goals.
Rory Dew, B.A. in Communication Arts | M.A. in Communication Arts | Class of December 2015
The ABM program in Convergent Media at UIW equipped me with the skills needed to stand out in the job market. Faculty challenged me to think critically and learn to apply my knowledge in many situations.
Sarah Cardenas, B.A. in Communication Arts | M.A. in Communication Arts | Class of December 2015
The University of the Incarnate Word’s Communications graduate program was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The small, intimate class sizes mixed with diverse groups of individuals allowed for many different perspectives through valuable discussions. All my professors were so encouraging and invested in each student’s success. They helped me navigate my passions of culture, relationships, communication, and athletics into something tangible I could take into the real world in hopes of making a difference. Now as a teacher and coach, I’m able to use what I learned and the tools I acquired through my experience in the graduate program every single day. All because my professors were intentional with their guidance and wanted me to be successful beyond UIW. I am truly thankful.

Master's DEGREE

Anthony Sanchez | M.A. Communication Arts | December of 2020
The UIW COMM ARTS faculty, as well as the program can only be explained in one word, amazing. They went above and beyond to ensure that I had all the tools I needed to become successful. It is rare to find a program that's both challenging and enjoyable, but I found that at UIW. The professor's teach from the heart, sharing memories, accomplishments, and even failures. This allows us as students to build personal relationships because rather than being just another number in their classes our faculty truly know us as individuals. This makes for an enjoyable learning environment and their passion for what they do allowed me to recognize that teaching is what I want to do.
Blanca Morales, B.A. Communication Arts | Class of May 2011 | M.A. Communication Arts | Class of December 2012
The chapter of my life spent at UIW working on my Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Communication Arts was invaluable. At UIW, I was more than a number in a lecture hall. I knew my professors one-on-one, received hands-on experience writing for the Logos and for a local magazine during my internship, and established lifelong friendships with several of my peers.
Crystal Ragsdale | M.A. Communication Arts | Class of December 2020
I found the program to be the perfect fit of challenge and inspiration. I was out of the education circuit for almost 20 years and I had to reacquaint myself with study habits and the discipline to complete readings and tasks. I was challenged to think as a student and not an employee. I was influenced to want to extend my media knowledge and am now inspired to teach as a secondary give back separate of my media career. I was given a different perspective of leadership and humility that allowed me to challenge my current sales team to grow and learn in their job duties.
David Mendez, B.A. Communication Arts | Class of December 2019 | M.A. Communication Arts | Class of December 2020
Being a part of the COMM ARTS program for both my B.A. and M.A., I had the privilege of developing myself in my degree field and as a person. The faculty always pushed me past my best and they were there when I fell a bit short with words of encouragement and motivation to keep going forward. What I learned in both of my degrees, I can apply to real-world issues and know that I am more than prepared for all the issues that might arise. Learning at UIW is not just about books and lesson plans, but about yourself, people, and making real connections.
Joela Riley, B.A. Communication Arts | Class of May 2009 | M.A. Communication Arts | Class of December 2015
During my undergrad and graduate studies at Incarnate Word University, the instructors provided me with the education and skills needed to have a prosperous future. Now, as an adjunct instructor, I have the opportunity to do the same for future generations.
Kristina Deleon, B.A., Psychology & Sociology with a minor in Communication Arts | M.A. Communication Arts | Class of December 2014
The University of the Incarnate Word's Communications graduate program helped me professionally with access to more tools needed as a television journalist. It has also blessed me with the opportunity to give back as an Adjunct Professor at the school in both the Communication Arts and Broadcast Meteorology departments. The mission is simple: Give and help when needed...like what the Sisters of Charity have so wisely taught and shown us.
Maren Minchew | M.A. Communication Arts | December of 2017
My time in the UIW COMM ARTS graduate program was amazing! The program shaped me as a professional and gave me the confidence to take my PR business to the next level. The professors pushed me to look at the PR profession in ways I hadn’t before, encouraged thinking outside the box, and provided me with tools I use every day. All of which made me a better businesswoman.
Stephen Anderson | B.A. Communication Arts | Class of December 2017 | M.A. Communication Arts | Class of December 2020
UIW helped me develop my skills and gave me the tools I needed to be successful after graduation to help me build my career in covering news stories across the globe. From my first day on campus, UIW felt like home and I knew was where I was meant to be to further my education. I will always be grateful for my time at UIW and will forever proudly show off my Cardinal pride.
Tracy Watts | M.A. Communication Arts | Class of May 2016
I received my MA in Communication Arts from The University of the Incarnate Word in 2016. Even though I was working full time, the flexibility of the evening classes allowed me to graduate in two years. My professors were so encouraging that it made for a very rewarding experience and my degree has made the transition into a career in higher education possible. I am truly thankful for the continued support that comes with being a UIW alumni.
William Conner | M.A. Communication Arts | Class of December 2003
When I began graduate studies at Incarnate Word, I felt everything was focused on the “next level“ of professional development. Each class took skills and talents most of us already possessed and pushed us to do more with what we were learning. Today, I’m constantly learning new things at my job, and I’m always mindful to do more to serve others with each new skill.
Yudith Crispin | M.A. Communication Arts | Class of December 2019
I learned how to communicate effectively in my relationships, toward my own growth and happiness. An effective communication that, understands and expresses needs, emotions and thoughts with the intended purpose. A communication that transcends borders, unifies and integrates different cultures and ways of living towards a common goal. A communication that leaves its mark on other people's lives with words, examples, and actions.