CSUF Comm Week 2026

Cinematography isn’t just about making things look good, it’s about understanding a story and helping bring someone else’s vision to life in a way that feels real and emotional. A big part of the job is collaboration, figuring out how to use light, framing, and movement to support what the director is trying to say. When you work in different parts of the world, that process shifts since you’re constantly learning new perspectives, new rhythms, and new ways people tell stories. It forces you to listen more and adapt, instead of just relying on your own habits. Over time, that experience doesn’t just make you a better filmmaker, it opens you up as a person.

Hosted by Professor Felipe Vara De Rey

For the first hour of this session, two generations (mother/daughter) of CSUF alumni share their tools for success and provide insight into the importance of networking, flexibility, and setting goals for your career. Linda Luna-Franks graduated with a BA in Communications, emphasis in Public Relations. Nearly 30 years later, her daughter, Dani, also earned her BA in Communications with an emphasis in Advertising. 

Beginning at 2 pm, CSUF alumnus Evan Da Silva will discuss his work in the session titled, "Serving the Public Through Strategic Communication: A Career in Government Public Relations/Affair." If you are interested in a career in public sector and government communications, join senior communications specialist Evan Da Silva of Moulton Niguel Water District as he shares what it's really like to work in public communications, from managing media relations and community outreach to regulatory reporting and collaborating on inter-agency multimedia projects. Evan will break down the key differences between public and private sector communications careers, including job responsibilities, transparency requirements, and the unique ways public agencies serve their communities. Whether you're just starting out or ready to take the next step, you'll walk away with practical advice on building your skillset, finding job opportunities, and growing your professional network in the public sector.

Hosted by Professor Jiwoo Park

Learn how to transform any subject into an engaging story. Brittny Mejia, Los Angeles Times reporter, will share her techniques for finding ideas, conducting thorough reporting, and structuring narratives that boost readership.

Hosted by Professor Anne LaJeunesse