Empowering voices: SDSU Imperial Valley students learn to share their stories with new course offering

For students at the San Diego State University Imperial Valley campus, learning how to tell their stories effectively just got easier. With the introduction of a JMS 310W: Media Writing and Reporting to the campus, they now are being given the tools to share their unique perspectives of their communities. 

With JMS 310W, students have access to hands-on training that equips them with essential storytelling skills. Among those who see the program’s potential is Dr. Guillermina G. Núñez-Mchiri, Dean of the Imperial Valley campus.

“[We can now] offer our students journalism skills such as active listening, interviewing and the use of technology to share news-worthy stories that elevate the unique contributions of the people in the Imperial Valley community,” says Núñez-Mchiri. “Being critical producers of knowledge is as valuable as being critical consumers of knowledge in an institution of higher education.” 

As the Imperial Valley undergoes a momentous transformation with its emergence as a hub for lithium extraction and clean energy development, the need for strong local storytelling becomes even more critical. The IV campus not only supports this shift through expanded science and engineering laboratories, but also through media education, ensuring that students can document and share the region’s growth. 

“Many students at the Calexico campus are bilingual and bicultural,” says SDSU journalism assistant professor Lourdes Cueva Chacon. “Most of our graduates stay and serve their region, making them ideal candidates to reach out and give a voice to the diverse and bilingual communities in the Valley.” 

By equipping students with journalism skills, JMS is helping to amplify the voices of those shaping the Valley’s future.  Through this initiative, SDSU hopes to empower students to advocate for their evolving community and ensure its stories are heard.