Communication
Elly Osborne '26
Why did you decide to study communication?
I have always loved listening to the people around me and discussing anything and everything. It just felt natural to learn more about how to be a good communicator. I am also on the forensics team, so I argue for fun.
What classes have been your favorite so far?
I have absolutely loved Interpersonal Communication and Advanced Interpersonal Communication. These classes were so interactive and applicable to every single day of my life. Communication is everywhere, and learning how to work well with others is key to success. Plus, Dr. Alan Mikkelson is just such a great lecturer.
Tell us about a unique experience you've had or project you've worked on for your major.
In Advanced Interpersonal we got to choose our own topic and write a research paper about it. I chose to examine how comedy impacts our romantic relationships. This was such a fun and interesting way to connect with the content because I realized how much positively treating the people around us changed the relationship. While research papers are not the most fun to write, I felt it gave me a deeper understanding of what we learned in the class because I had to find the sources to back up my claims.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in communication?
Be prepared to read and write, but do not shy away because of that. Every reading and writing I have done has made me a better student, communicator and even person. There are so many great skills you can learn by even taking just one communication class.
What's your dream job?
I want to become a lawyer! But my biggest dream is to become a Supreme Court justice.
Who are three people who have made a difference for you at Whitworth?
Dr. Alan Mikkelson, because he cares so deeply about what he teaches, and it truly makes such a difference. Dr. Mike Ingram, because he is my debate coach, but even more than that he is such an amazing human being, and I feel so lucky to look up to someone like him. And, of course, Rylee Walter; she is our assistant coach and one of the most loving, thoughtful and truly supportive women I have ever known.
Why did you choose to attend Whitworth?
The second I toured campus, I knew I belonged here. The atmosphere was just so much better than the other campuses I was interested in. It felt like home!
Rachel Ayres '22
Why did you decide to study communication?
Ever since I was little, I loved to read and write. Growing up, I learned what it is like to be a journalist through a couple of opportunities which led me to become passionate about telling stories. I decided to study communication because I wanted to tell and share people's stories, which can be done in so many ways in such a diverse field!
What are some of your favorite classes so far?
A few of my favorite classes so far include Theories of Human Communication, Editing for Multimedia, Communication in Leadership, Romans, C.S. Lewis, Core 250 and Intro to Environmental Science. Those communication-based classes prepared me well for my future career by teaching me the practical skills I will need, while the non-major classes have helped to round out my knowledge and led me to appreciate and incorporate different disciplines into my major. All these classes were also taught by professors who were excellent at communicating the material, had mastery over the subject, and really valued me and my fellow classmates
Tell us about a unique experience or project you've worked on for your major.
During my time at Whitworth, I have written and edited for The Whitworthian. Through this platform, I have interviewed many fascinating people including impressive students, key university leaders as well as outside guests and experts.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in communication?
For those thinking about majoring in communication, I highly suggest trying to diversify your skill set as best as you can. Communications has so many different elements that all work well together, for example public speaking, writing, editing, organizing, etc. The more tools you have in your tool chest, the more equipped you will be for wherever your career takes you!
What's your dream job?
I would love to work for a Christian nonprofit where I could tell stories of people that the nonprofit helps.
Who has been an important connection for you at Whitworth, and why?
Starting in September of my freshman year, I have had the amazing opportunity to get to know Lauren Taylor, campus pastor for discipleship & residence hall ministry. She has been my pastor, mentor and friend through so much life and growth. For every decision, big or small, she has been a sounding board for me. She is someone who leads with love and for that reason – and many more – I see her as a role model.
What is something that has surprised you about your major?
Communication is such a flexible major in that it is easy to cater to your own interests and build your own specific skill sets. No communication student (or professor) is alike. We all have different interests, passions and gifts, which results in a strong network of people who can support each other in unique ways.
Why did you choose to attend Whitworth?
When I was first looking at colleges during my junior year of high school, I specifically was most interested in schools that offered a Christian education in Washington, preferably on the east side of the mountains – and Whitworth fit that ticket! My cousin had graduated from Whitworth just a few years before I started looking and he always had great things to say about his time here, which intrigued me. When I visited Whitworth, I truly felt and knew that this was a place where I could grow academically, relationally and spiritually. I am so thankful that I chose to make this place my home for my college career; I honestly can't imagine spending these four years anywhere else.
How would you describe Whitworth?
Whitworth is a place of opportunity. While being on campus, I have had so many opportunities to meet new people, learn new things and try new activities. There are so many tangible ways to plug into a variety of communities that value each person for who they are.