Grad changes course and finds inspiration, deeper purpose
Taylor Jojola earns her bachelor's degree in communication this spring from ASU West Valley campus. Courtesy photo
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of spectacular spring 2025 grads.
For Taylor Jojola, choosing a major wasn’t just about finding a career path, it was about finding her calling.
After enrolling at ASU’s New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences as a forensic psychology major, one elective communication class sparked a new passion that would shape the rest of her college journey.
From that moment on, Taylor knew she wanted to dedicate her future to helping others build stronger connections and find their voice. She is now graduating with a bachelor's degree in communication.
During her time at New College, Taylor immersed herself in opportunities to mentor fellow students and refine the skills she hopes to pass on as a future educator. Inspired by New College’s innovative spirit and ASU’s inclusive mission, she plans to continue her studies in graduate school and eventually teach communication courses at the college level.
For Taylor, earning her degree is more than a personal achievement; it’s a meaningful step toward empowering others to find confidence, community and purpose.
Read on to learn more about Taylor's college journey and her plans for the future.
Note: This interview has been edited lightly for length and/or clarity.
Q: Why did you choose New College?
A: Originally, I chose New College because of the innovative technologies they offer, especially in the forensics program. Then I discovered CoLab ASU, and that experience really drew me in.
When I found out more about the communication program, I realized it was all about helping people, and that’s what I’ve always wanted to do, no matter the degree program. Eventually, I saw that my passion was helping students specifically, and New College gave me the space and support to grow into that.
Q: What’s something you learned while at New College that surprised you or changed your perspective?
A: I gained a lot of knowledge and insight from the Gender and Communication course at New College. It really piqued my interest in gender studies, and I hope to continue that study in graduate school. It opened my eyes to how inclusive studying communication can be. The cultural communication courses especially helped me understand the diversity within the field.
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at New College and what was that lesson?
A: Professor Ken Kunkel taught me one of the most valuable lessons: that it’s okay to fail. Failure is part of learning, and what really matters is how you get yourself back up afterward. That lesson stuck with me.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d offer to someone considering applying for college?
A: My advice would be to just go for it. There’s truly a place for everyone, especially at ASU. There are endless opportunities for growth and to get involved. It’s such a great place to be after high school.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering your major? What makes for a good candidate in communication?
A: If you're thinking about majoring in communication, definitely go for it, even if you’re a little hesitant or not naturally outgoing. The major gives you space to develop your skills, and those skills will help in any future career.
Whether you're learning about intercultural communication, small group dynamics or interpersonal relationships, there’s so much knowledge to gain. You can learn to speak publicly, work independently or collaborate in groups. I’ve also gained professional skills like writing résumés and cover letters, and understanding how to act in a business setting.
Q: What’s your favorite spot on the West Valley campus — for studying or hanging out with friends?
A: Definitely the library. I love studying there, especially on the second and third floors, because the views of Arizona’s scenery are just beautiful. The space is full of positive energy. Everyone’s smiling, laughing and supporting one another. Some of my closest friends are often there. It’s such an uplifting environment, and it always reminds me why we’re here — to help each other.
Q: What do you enjoy doing outside of school?
A: I enjoy yoga, going to the gym and spending time with my friends and family. I’m originally from California, so whenever I can, I love visiting home, going to the beach and just doing fun, relaxing things.
Q: What are your plans after graduation? What do you plan to do for work?
A: After graduation, I plan to earn my master’s in communication while student teaching, with the goal of eventually teaching at the college level. I want to support students the way my professors supported me both in and out of the classroom, and help them build confidence in their communication skills. As a mentor at ASU, I’ve seen how creating a safe space for students to grow, especially in public speaking, can make a lasting impact.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years, and how did New College help you get there?
A: Ten years from now, I see myself teaching at an accredited university. I really want to help students — that’s my main goal. New College played a huge role in getting me there. It gave me so many opportunities: I’ve student-taught, led lessons in college courses and worked as a mentor at ASU. These experiences helped me grow and gain the confidence I need for a career in higher education. New College taught me skills I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life and career.
Q: What does the "new" in New College mean to you?
A: To me, “new” means exciting and fresh. At New College, it represents innovation — new technologies, new ideas and new ways of learning. A lot of my classes focused on using AI as a tool, and I’ve seen how committed the college is to creating a space where students can truly grow along with the world around them.
Q: What does your degree mean to you and your family?
A: Getting my degree in communication — and going to college in general — means so much to me and my family. They’ve been my biggest support system through this entire journey. We’re all really excited for what’s next, and they’re incredibly proud of how far I’ve come.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share?
A: During my second year, I came across the ASU Charter, and it completely mesmerized me. The part that really stood out was: ASU is a public research university, measured not by whom it excludes, but by whom it includes, and how they succeed. That line lit a fire in me. I found it so beautiful, and it made me feel like there’s a place for everyone here.
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