Aneka Normandie, a sophomore at Colorado State University, discovered her passion for communication through the university’s dynamic Communication Studies program. 

Photo of Aneka Normandie - A CSU Communication Studies student wearing a grey shirt and jeans standing against a plaint background

“I read a lot about the program through the Comm Studies website and found that it matched my future goals pretty well,” Normandie explained. “Plus, it’s such a versatile degree—I figured I might as well give it a try!”

Since joining the program, Normandie’s personal and academic growth have been remarkable. 

“My experience in the program has been absolutely amazing. The staff, grad students, and my peers have all made my time here so wonderful. I love this program, and I love the beautiful people who make it up—it was one of the best decisions I could have made for my future,” she said

Normandies’s passion for Communication Studies stems from the variety of learning opportunities the major offers. 

“The wide range of classes and types of communication has made this major so much fun and engaging for me,” she shared. “There are so many topics that communication studies apply to, and it keeps me constantly discovering new information in every single course I take.”

Normandie is a huge standout in the program as she is currently an undergraduate research assistant for Dr. Natalie Pennington and Dr. Meara Faw in the Wellness in Interpersonal Relationships and Communication Lab. 

“This opportunity has provided me with the chance to participate in research on many interpersonal communication projects at such an early point in my academic career and has been hugely beneficial,” Normandie explained. Additionally, her role as an Undergraduate Research Ambassador allows her to help other students connect with research opportunities, further enhancing her experience and impact within the department.

For incoming students, Aneka offers heartfelt advice: “Take advantage of every opportunity you can to get to know your professors and TAs. You’ll likely see them repeatedly, and every faculty member is genuinely rooting for you to succeed. Communication Studies is important—don’t let yourself forget that.”

Aneka’s story is a testament to the amazing experiences and endless opportunities anyone can gain through the Communication Studies program. Her story will inspire incoming students to dive in and make the most of every moment at CSU.

Written by Niyah Gullixson, Senior at Colorado State University