School of Journalism and Media Studies Announces Outstanding Students
Katerina Portela: Outstanding Undergraduate Student
Katerina Portela has been named the 2025 Outstanding Undergraduate Student from the School of Journalism and Media Studies at SDSU. A driven Journalism major, Katerina has made a mark through her thoughtful storytelling, academic excellence, and a strong commitment to media that serves the public good.
After graduation, she plans to begin a career in digital journalism, with the long-term goal of working in strategic communications for organizations dedicated to civic engagement and social impact. “I want to use media to inform and empower communities,” she said, reflecting the passion that has defined her time at SDSU.
Katerina credits Dr. Lourdes Cueva Chacón as the professor who had the most profound impact on her journey. “She empowered me to embrace my voice and to lead with purpose and clarity,” Katerina shared. Dr. Cueva Chacón’s mentorship not only shaped her approach to journalism but gave her the confidence to pursue ambitious goals. Katerina graduates as a standout voice in SDSU’s media landscape—thoughtful, compassionate, and ready to make a difference.
Miki Corsette: Outstanding Graduate Student in Learning Design and Technology
Miki Corsette has been named the 2025 Outstanding Graduate Student from the Learning Design and Technology (LDT) program in the School of Journalism and Media Studies at SDSU. A passionate advocate for lifelong learning, Miki’s graduate work centers on integrating AI, XR, and Edu-Metaverse technologies into instructional design to foster well-being and personal growth.
“My mission is to help others find their ikigai—their sense of purpose—through innovative education,” Miki shared. Her research and capstone work explore how immersive, AI-driven learning ecosystems can support both professional development and human flourishing. She has published on Edu-Metaverse ecosystem modeling and designed a science education project using AI technologies.
Post-graduation, Miki plans to continue advancing educational innovation through corporate learning design, with a long-term goal of building learning systems that empower individuals and organizations alike. Guided by Okinawan values of yuimaru (community spirit) and nuchi du takara (life is a treasure), Miki’s work is deeply grounded in empathy, connection, and a desire to uplift others through purposeful learning.
Arleen Rasing: Outstanding Graduate Student in Mass Communication
Arleen Rasing has been named the 2025 Outstanding Graduate Student from the Mass Communication program in the School of Journalism and Media Studies at SDSU. With a passion for media analysis and pop culture, Arleen's academic work explores how representation impacts audience engagement and discourse.
Her master’s thesis, “And Where DEI Is, Let the Great Axe Fall,” critically examined audience reactions to the cancellations of streaming shows with intersectional representation, such as Genera+ion and Gordita Chronicles. Through this qualitative research, Arleen analyzed social media discourse to assess how viewers respond to industry decisions that affect inclusive storytelling.
Looking ahead, Arleen hopes to pursue a career in the television and film industry or continue her academic path with a Ph.D. in media studies. “SDSU helped me expand my research interests and deepen my connection to academic writing,” she shared. Known by peers and mentors as passionate, driven, and conscientious, Arleen brings a sharp, thoughtful voice to the future of media scholarship and storytelling.
