By: Ellen Kim
Photo Credit: Alayna Williams
Introduce yourself
My name is Mily Pineda Rivera, and I am currently a first-generation student at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). I am in my senior year, pursuing a degree in Media and Communication Studies. Throughout my time at UMBC, I have gained a deep passion for understanding the dynamic role that media and communication play in shaping society. As a first-generation college student, this journey has been both challenging and rewarding, motivating me to work hard and embrace opportunities for growth. I am excited to continue exploring the field of media and communication as I approach the final stages of my academic career.
What inspired you to choose MCS as your major? Would you switch it for a different major?
I was originally a biology student, but everything changed when I took my first communication course. I was fascinated by the broadness of the field, from the theories behind media to how communication shapes society and individual lives.. If I had the chance to go back, I wouldn't change my decision to pursue Media and Communication Studies, but I would definitely consider adding speech as part of my major to further enhance my communication skills and broaden my knowledge in the field, especially considering my interest now in Speech Language Pathology.
Did you ever have moments of doubt or thoughts that MCS might not be the right path for you? How did you overcome this?
I never really had moments of doubt about choosing Media and Communication Studies because, from the start, I felt it was the right path for me. When I considered the various directions I could take within the field, I realized how broad and versatile it is, and that made me feel confident in my choice. The potential to work in different industries and explore topics I’m passionate about reassured me that I was heading in the right direction. Instead of feeling uncertain, I embraced the excitement of all the opportunities MCS offers and stayed focused on growing my knowledge and skills.
Outside of your major, what are some things that make up your identity or that you are
proud of?
Outside of my major, there are a few things that really shape who I am. One of them is my love for traveling, exploring new places and cultures is something that brings me a lot of joy. I also enjoy capturing those experiences through a lens, whether it’s a picture or a video, as it allows me to share the world from my perspective. Additionally, I find fulfillment in helping others, and I hope that in the future, I can find a way to incorporate all of these passions into my career. Whether through media, communication, or community work, I’m excited to see how these interests come together.
What is one MCS project that you worked on that still sticks with you today and how could that manifest into something you can use in your career?
One MCS project that sticks with me is my senior capstone, which focuses on the representation of Latina women in media and how it impacts the perception of Latina women. This topic is especially meaningful to me because I see myself as a representation of Latina women, and working on this research feels deeply personal. It allows me to explore how media portrayal influences cultural perceptions and offers a chance to challenge stereotypes. This research could manifest into something impactful in my career by helping me contribute to more accurate and empowering representations of Latina women in media, whether through content creation, advocacy, or future projects aimed at social change.
Looking back, what were some of your favorite MCS classes? Favorite moments?
Looking back, my favorite MCS classes were MCS 222 and MCS 101. MCS 101 introduced me to media literacy, which I think is crucial in today’s world, especially with the rise of fake news. It really helped me develop the skills to critically analyze media messages. MCS 222 was equally impactful; it taught me everything I didn’t know about communication, from its theories to its practical applications. Both classes were foundational in shaping my understanding of the field and have had a lasting influence on my studies and perspective on media. They are definitely my top classes.
Do you think being an MCS major has helped you leave your comfort zone at times? When were those times and how did it affect you?
Yes, being an MCS major has definitely helped me step out of my comfort zone. I struggle with anxiety sometimes, and many of my classes required me to interact with others, which was challenging at first. However, these experiences have been incredibly beneficial in helping me improve my public speaking and interpersonal communication skills. It wasn’t always easy, but I’m grateful for the push because it has made me more confident in expressing myself and connecting with others. It’s one of the ways the MCS program has had a lasting positive impact on me.
What internship or career are you thinking about currently?
Right now, I’m considering teaching English abroad for a gap year. It would give me the opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture and gain valuable teaching experience. After that, I plan to return and pursue a master’s degree in speech-language pathology. I’m excited about this career path because it combines my interest in communication with my desire to help others, especially those who face challenges in their ability to communicate. It feels like a perfect next step after my time in the MCS program.
What would you say to incoming MCS majors?
To incoming MCS majors, I’d say embrace the journey ahead because this field is full of endless possibilities. Media and communication shape the world around us in profound ways, and as an MCS major, you have the power to influence how stories are told, how information is shared, and how society is shaped. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, whether it’s through public speaking, writing, or creating media because every challenge you face will help you grow. Stay curious, stay open-minded, and remember that the skills you’re learning aren’t just for a career, they're for making a real impact in the world. Trust the process, and you’ll find your voice in ways you never imagined.