Tag Archives: communication

Academic Spotlight: Health Communication 

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The health communication degree at PUC is offered to pre-professional students who want to pursue a career in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and other healthcare-related fields, but are also interested in studying communication.

If you want to work in the medical field, communication skills are ranked as one of the top skills employers look for in their recruits. Whether you are working with patients and their families or with other staff, communication is key. Students who study communication are often better problem solvers, collaborators, negotiators, and critical thinkers. 

Fast Facts

  1. 100 percent of our health communication graduates are either employed or in graduate programs for medical school, dental school, pharmacy school, physical therapy school, occupational therapy school, or other graduate programs. 
  2. Strong interpersonal, intercultural, written, and verbal communication skills are in high demand, especially in healthcare, because communication errors are often reported to be the leading cause of mistakes in healthcare. 
  3. PUC’s program is one of the very few undergraduate health communication programs available in the entire country. We are the only Seventh-day Adventist school who offers this degree. 
  4. A health C=communication degree is not an easier way to prepare for pre-professional programs since performance in science courses and MCAT/DAT/GRE, etc. scores are still the key markers for being competitive applicants. But it is one path that provides a broad overview of all types of communication skills healthcare providers will use in their careers. 

A Student’s Perspective

“I really like how I can take communication classes on top of science classes. Communication classes break down everyday concepts I feel we normally never really acknowledge. I felt like comm classes really gave me an edge when it came to interpersonal or small group interaction and the professors are the best professors on campus. Communication classes really helped me be more aware of how I speak. I believe anyone entering healthcare should be aware of how they speak and how they can improve. The biggest take away from comm classes at PUC was how it inspired me to become a better communicator for a stronger patient-provider relationship. Taking comm classes helped me realize being a health provider is more than just helping patients but creating a relationship can offer the best patient outcome.” – Myro Castillo, senior 

If you would like to see more information about health communication, check out the course catalog. Speak to your academic counselor or an admissions counselor if you have any questions about PUC’s health communication program. Call (800) 862-7080, option 2 or email admissions@puc.edu to get connected with a counselor. 

 

Academic Spotlight: Communication

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An increasingly popular option at PUC is communication. The program includes three emphases to choose between, as well as a handful of minors.

The department of communication at PUC offers instruction in a variety of communication skills and principles that apply to mass media, public speaking, small group, and interpersonal settings. Students are taught how to apply their knowledge to real-life situations, giving them the tools and experience necessary to succeed in life.

Programs offered:

  • B.A., B.S. in Communication
  • B.S. in Marketing Communication
  • B.S. in Multimedia Communication
  • B.S. in Health Communication

A Student’s Perspective

“My favorite aspect of being part of the department of communication are the professors. I strongly believe my department has some of the most dedicated, smart, and passionate faculty at PUC. My department is run by strong, intelligent women, and their life experiences and candor really speaks to me and motivates me to pursue this degree. Likewise, I appreciate the in-depth knowledge my degree encompasses. There are so many aspects of communication; its applications are everywhere. Communication is a crucial facet of the human existence and is an integral part of every field. I am of the opinion the opportunities for a communications major are endless. It is for these reasons I love my department as well as my major.” — Hailey Johanson, sophomore, honors student

Fast Facts

  1. Communication is one of the top five departments at PUC in terms of the number of yearly graduates.
  2. A senior seminar course prepares soon-to-be graduates for the job market by walking them through the process of building a resume, creating a professional portfolio, and preparation for professional interviews.
  3. An internship is required as part of the coursework for all communication programs to provide real-world experience, with an internship coordinator who assists students throughout the process.
  4. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for media and communication occupations is projected to grow six percent from 2016 to 2026, which is about as fast as the average for all occupations, and will result in approximately 43,200 new jobs. Demand for these types of jobs is expected to increase as there will be a higher need for workers who can create, edit, translate, and share information through a variety of platforms. The median annual wage for media and communication occupations was $56,340 in May 2017, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $37,690.

What You Can Do With This Major

There are so many different careers students can go into with a degree in communication. Here are just some ideas to help get you thinking about your options!

  • Advertising
  • Ghostwriting
  • International service & relief
  • Journalism
  • Law
  • Marketing
  • Medicine
  • Newswriting & reporting
  • Public relations specialist
  • Social media specialist

Learn more about the department of communication at puc.edu/academics. Our team of admissions counselors can answer any questions you have about PUC’s communication programs, or the other majors the college offers. Call (800) 862-7080, option 2 or email admissions@puc.edu to get connected with a counselor now and start learning about all the options available to you!

#FacultyFriday: Meet Michelle Rai

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Professor Michelle Konn Rai specializes in public relations and integrated marketing communications. Prior to teaching, she worked in several different positions at PUC; as an enrollment counselor, assistant director of enrollment services, and director of public relations. She enjoys spending quality time with her two children, Sophie and Joshua, and husband, David; Instagramming the antics of her dog, Snowball; surfing when back in Hawaii; playing tennis, and experimenting with exotic cuisine.

Name: Michelle Rai    
Title: Assistant Professor of Communication and Department Chair
Email: mrai@puc.edu
Faculty since: 2006

Classes taught: Intro to Communication, Intro to Public Relations, Crisis Communications, Marketing Communications, Fundraising for Nonprofits, Junior Seminar, Senior Seminar

Education: B.A. in Communication & B.S. in Journalism from Pacific Union College; M.S. in Integrated Marketing Communications from Golden Gate University

What made you decide to be a teacher?

Teaching found me and I’m so grateful. I was busy working as the PR director for PUC when I heard of an opening for a public relations professor. The academic dean and department chair at the time talked me into trying it, and it has been such a rewarding and fulfilling career.

What are some of your hobbies?

USTA league tennis, pet Instagramming, being a short order cook for my kids, attempting to practice yoga, online bargain shopping, and trying new foods any chance I get.

What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?

I really don’t enjoy public speaking.

What’s your favorite thing about PUC?

The people, hands down. There is something so special about this place. It attracts incredibly talented and engaging faculty, staff, and students to create a wonderful learning space and community.   

What’s your favorite spot on campus?

I realize I should say something nostalgic such as the Back 40 forest but it’s really the Howell Mountain Deli in the College Market. I am slightly addicted to their Cobb salad and homemade garlic chips.

What’s your favorite song?

“Take On Me” by A-ha. Their lead singer Morten Harkett was my preteen crush and I would scream every time it played on the radio.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman?  

I’d say the best thing you can do is get off your device. Experience college and get to know people face to face. You don’t need to document every minute of your day—keep people guessing about what makes you tick!

#FacultyFriday: Meet Tammy McGuire

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Dr. Tammy McGuire has been teaching for over 30 years and has made a profound impact on the lives of hundreds during that time. Those who have taken Organization Communication from her think back fondly to analyzing the organizational structure of countless episodes of “The Office.” Like most employees at PUC, McGuire loves spending time in nature but what sets her apart from the crowd is what an avid backpacker and outdoorsy-woman she is. Join us as we get to know a little more about Dr. McGuire!

Name: Tammy McGuire
Title: Professor of Communication
Email: tmcguire@puc.edu
Faculty since: 2006

Classes taught: Interpersonal Communication, Small Group Communication, Organizational Communication, Communication Research, Nonverbal Communication, Visual Communication and Semiotics, Argumentation, Persuasion, Introduction to Health Communication, Health Communication Seminar

Education:

B.S. in Language Arts Education from Union College, M.A. in English from Eastern Washington University, Ph.D. in Communication from University of Missouri

What made you decide to be a teacher?  

I wanted to be a teacher because of the profound influence some of my high school teachers had on me (Mrs. Kittrell, I’m looking at you). I wanted a job that was interesting, varied, and carried with it the possibility of making a difference. Teaching fit that bill. I love my job.

What are some of your hobbies?  

Anything outdoors. In over 30 years of teaching, I’ve only bought one piece of new furniture but I own three bikes (mountain, road, bikepacking), four pair of telemark skis, five backpacks of various sizes, six tents of various sizes, seven different types of backpacking stoves, two hammocks, three tennis rackets, a bin full of rock climbing gear, three ice axes, two pairs of crampons, at least eight pairs of hiking boots/shoes, two kayak paddles, at least three pairs of trail running shoes, three down sleeping bags, innumerable jackets and vests for the outdoors, etc., etc.

What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?  

I occasionally play The Elder Scrolls Online. My character name is Kraaken-Ta. She is a force to be reckoned with (rather unlike my real life)!

What’s your favorite thing about PUC?  

No other college has the Back 40. What an immeasurable treasure.

What’s your favorite spot on campus?

Anywhere along Mossy Rock trail after the rains start. It reminds me of Middle Earth. (My office has a pretty good view of the fountain as well!)

What’s your favorite song?

I could listen to Cory Asbury’s song “Reckless Love” a thousand times and still be moved.

What advice would you give to an incoming freshman?  

Reframe academic challenges, difficulties, things that are uncomfortable or hard as a POSITIVE. We never grow, change, or become better human beings until our boundaries are pushed. The usefulness of education is pushing those boundaries with supportive mentors at your size. But don’t hesitate to ask for help if you feel overwhelmed. Seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.

Professional activities (Note: Only the recent in each category are listed.)

Publications

Dougherty, D., Baiocchi-Wagner, E., & McGuire, T. (2011). Managing Sexual Harassment through Enacted Stereotypes: An Intergroup Perspective.  Western Journal of Communication, 75, 259-281.

Lair, D., Shenoy, S., McClellan, J., & McGuire, T. (2008). The Politics of Meaning/ful Work: Navigating the Tensions of Narcissism and Condescension While Finding Meaning in Work.Management Communication Quarterly, 22, 172-180.

McGuire, T.  (2009). From Emotions to Spirituality: “Spiritual Labor” as the Commodification, Codification, and Regulation of Organizational Members’ Spirituality.  Management Communication Quarterly, 24, 74-103.

Conference Papers/Presentations

Coffelt, T., & McGuire, T. (2014). Emerging adults who talk about delaying or abstaining from sexual activity: The influence of religion and religiosity. Paper presented at the Religious Communication Association convention in Chicago.

McGuire, T. (2012). Nonverbal Communication and Small Groups: The Elephant in the Room. Presented at the G.I.F.T.S. (Great Ideas for Teaching Speech) session at the National Communication Association Convention, Washington, D.C.

McGuire, T. (2011, November). An exploration of students’ reluctance to ask clarifying questions on tests.  Paper presented at the National Communication Association convention in Orlando.

#FacultyFriday: Meet Tara Hargrove

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The holy hill called Tara Hargrove, and she answered! Okay, so maybe the voice she heard was God and not the mountain, but we are so happy, either way, that Professor Hargrove has joined the faculty in the department of communication. Read on to learn a bit more about her, and stop by her office in Irwin Hall to say hello.

Name: Tara Hargrove
Title: Associate Professor of Communication & Basic Course Director
Email: thargrove@puc.edu
Faculty since: 2018

Fall Quarter Classes: Three sections of Intro to Communication (COMM 105)

Education: M.A. in communication studies, Colorado State University

What brought you here to PUC?

I grew up in Colorado so I love mountains but I’ve always been drawn to the beach, as well. So the location of PUC—being on a mountain and so close to the ocean—was a big draw. But mostly I prayed and prayed for God’s leading, and He brought me here.

Before God called you to these California mountains, where were you and what were you doing?

I was actually most recently at Southern Adventist University, where I taught for the past nine years. This past year I taught strictly online for them, and I currently adjunct teach online for them a film evaluation class and a course on communication and public speaking. I was also the basic course director and the executive director for Studio 4109 which is a live comedy sketch program students put on.

Tell us how you got into teaching.

I tell a story my first day of speech class about how I was so terrified of public speaking when I first was contemplating college that I actually decided not to go to college just because of that class. I had a friend who took me skydiving and reminded me there are a lot of things in life we fear at first but if we push ourselves it can be fun and rewarding. I loved the feeling of overcoming my fear, so I took public speaking and found it was actually exciting to get up and share my opinions and ideas and people actually listened. Now I love helping others overcome their fears, and watching them face something challenging and succeed.

What has surprised you about your new home?

Not that we didn’t expect this, but everyone has been so very welcoming. We have been so blessed by this community.

So, when you’re not managing classes and teaching and meeting with students, where will you be?

I, of course, enjoy spending time with my husband and kids. We love going to the beach, tide-pooling, camping, and hiking. We are also Broncos and Rockies fans so we enjoy going to games when we can.

Okay, one last thing: What’s something people may be surprised to learn about you?

I’d love to live on a boat or in a van. Really!