HCOM offers cutting-edge humanities for the 21st century through the study of culture, communication, and creative expression. Our faculty members include world-renowned historians, creative writers, philosophers, journalists, literary and cultural critics, communication ethics scholars, ethnic studies scholars, and women's studies scholars. Our program provides students with a broad interdisciplinary education applicable to many professions and walks of life. When in doubt, come to HCOM!
~ Dr. Rina Benmayor, Founding Director
I was hired to work with the Education Program for Gifted Youth (EPGY) at Stanford University as a School Programs Support Associate! The program has extended out in the past years, providing math and writing skill development software to K-8 students all across the nation with an expanded focus on working with disadvantaged students, I will be working to introduce EPGY programs to local as well as out-of-state schools. I will also help to create a team of support associates as the school programs initiative further develops. This is a great and unique opportunity to work with some of the best researchers and educational curriculum developers. This experience will further expand my knowledge of Title 1 schools, student motivation and learning, and programs such as EPGY that are attempting to create a stronger K-16 bridge for disadvantaged students.
~ Julio Cardona, Class of 2003; Education M.A., Stanford, 2004
I firmly believe that my HCOM classes, and particularly Capstone, have helped me apply theories to my current job in social services that directly impact people of color. Also, I feel confident going to the Ethnic Studies Program because of the exposure to theories and readings that I learned at CSUMB. Employers and academic committees have been really impressed with my Capstone, and without the guidance, curriculum, and push for empowerment by the HCOM staff, I don't think I would be at my current job or entering grad school. So I just wanted to let you know that all of your hard work and that of your colleagues really does make a difference...
~ Karen Anton, Class of 2003
Two years was really too short, but my human communication skills appear to be paying off, for I got hired fulltime as a reporter for The Salinas Californian! Yep, I guess they liked the work I did at the Otter Realm because I got hired in the middle of July after six weeks as an intern. I am the City of Salinas and night cops reporter, and I really like it overall. Well, I just thought I'd keep you updated so at least Dr. Wang can remind students that things can be done with a degree in HCOM.
~ Zachary Stahl, Class of 2004
Being the first in my family to go to college, I needed a school that could cater to that, to give me the extra little help. CSUMB has provided me with professors that care, a helpful administration, and great students. HCOM has helped me wake up to see what this world has to offer and how I can help work on what is wrong. So, I am not only the first to go to college, I am also the first feminist in my family.
~ Theresa Gonzales, Riverside, California
Revised 4/25/05