BA in Communication

Communication homepage

Mariapaz Huaman-rivera, 2025

Mariapaz Huaman-rivera

Major: BA in communication with a concentration in interpersonal and organizational communication 

Hometown: Fairfax, VA 

Plans after graduation: After graduating, Huaman-rivera will pursue a master’s degree in communication. She is interested in specializing in health communication and aspires for a career that will allow her to motivate, encourage, and inspire others.  

Most impactful course: COMM 385: Communicating Identity. “It dived into what makes individuals who they are and what hurdles they face when heading into emerging adulthood. It helped to understand the challenges and elements of what comes ahead for me as I become older, but it also allowed to see from a differing perspective on how individuals tend to navigate life as growing adults while also building their own sense of self along the way. It made me have a renewed and strengthened appreciation for what I have had, for the past, present, and for the future.” 

Favorite George Mason memory: Known for her baking, Huaman-rivera has fond memories of sharing her cooking with fellow classmates. “There would be many instances in my classes where there were potlucks and I got the chance to share my baking cuisine with everyone. From cookies to cupcakes, it was a joy for me to get to share my love of baking with my fellow students.” 

Turning passion into research 

The activity that most impacted Huaman-rivera during her time at George Mason was creating her own research. As part of the COMM 490 & 491 experience, she conducted a content analysis study titled "Influence of Game Categories and Gaming Site Interactive Features on Interpersonal Engagement within Online Gaming Communities." This project allowed her to take something she loved engaging with at a young age and apply it into development of interpersonal communication skills. “I was surprised to see how differing elements within online gaming sites and communities impacted individuals in their daily lives. She presented her findings at the Undergraduate Research Symposium on April 24th, 2025, finding it enriching to discuss her work and showcase her capabilities.