Orientation Reflections

On Saturday, August 23rd, 2025, I attended orientation for the MSIS program at CSULB.

Sitting in a classroom again felt a little surreal. It has been years since my undergraduate days, but the energy on campus reminded me why I decided to take this step.

One piece of advice from the Dean stood out:

“Document your progress. Build a portfolio that shows your skills and projects.”

That advice is the reason this site exists. It will be my way to stay accountable and share the work I am doing.

A few highlights from orientation:

• Hearing recent graduates talk about their paths and successes was motivating.
• Receiving my student ID made it feel official.
• Picking up the program swag added some fun to the day.

There was also a personal milestone. I took my first selfie with my Sony A7R IV camera. I usually stay behind the lens, but I decided to step in front of it this time. That choice mirrors what this program is about for me: taking on challenges that push me out of my comfort zone.

Balancing work, business, and graduate school will not be easy, but orientation gave me the push I needed to start with confidence.