APU Articles
Faculty Friday: Michelle Cox Sees Impact Through Ripple Effect
June 23, 2023
Michelle Cox,PhD, loves helping people determine their purpose in life. As the director of Azusa Pacific University’s school counseling program, Cox has equipped thousands of students during her time at APU to become difference makers. “I feel that my calling is to really help others identify their calling,” she said. “I love empowering my students to meet their God given potential.”
Faculty Friday: Mark Gasbarro — Renowned Pianist Brings the Best in Both Music and Teaching
June 16, 2023
Star Trek Beyond, Jurassic World, Whiplash, Jojo Rabbit, and Tomorrowland, are just a few of the films professor Mark Gasbarro has worked on as a pianist. Along with these, Gasbarro has contributed to a number of TV shows, video games, and Pixar films, such as Inside Out, Ratatouille, Cars 2, Coco, The Incredibles, and Up as the film’s piano soloist. Gasbarro also has extensive experience composing, arranging, orchestrating, and producing. Amidst his many projects and career success, he also teaches in Azusa Pacific University’s renowned School of Music. As the director of undergraduate composition studies, Gasbarro conducts the studio orchestra and teaches applied composition, applied piano, and songwriting.
What Are the Most In-Demand Jobs of the Future?
June 14, 2023
Alumni Feature: Ruby McAuliffe ’20 is Living Her Dream as an Editor in NYC
June 13, 2023
Ever since Taylor Swift’s “Welcome to New York” came out in 2014, Ruby McAuliffe ’20 dreamed of moving to the Big Apple. Aside from her favorite singer’s pop hit, the journalist also knew she wanted to pursue a career in fashion, beauty, and commerce fashion — an industry largely based in New York City. Though it came at the cost of leaving friends, family, and familiarity behind, McAuliffe has no regrets about her cross-country move. “I am working my dream job. This is why I wanted to be here. At the same time, there are sacrifices, but my family always reminds me — in the best way possible — we don’t want you here [in California]. They want me to be out here achieving my dreams,” she said.
How Many Credits Do You Need to Graduate College?
June 08, 2023
Whether you’re getting ready to apply to colleges or you already have a few classes under your belt, understanding what it takes to complete your degree can be as daunting as it is exciting. For example, how many credits do you need to graduate college?
Helena Mayer ’20: Reaching the Lost Through Music
June 07, 2023
When Helena Mayer ’20 began her career, she had a pivotal choice to make. Although she had studied worship music at Azusa Pacific University, she felt unsettled about going into a career in Christian music. “I prayed and asked God what He wanted from me. I heard Him say ‘I want you to reach the lost,’” she said. “I feel called to be at the beginning stage of people’s faith journeys. For people who have turned around because they’ve been so hurt by the church, I want my songs to start the process of showing them there’s something more, something worth living for even if that’s not under the description of Christian music.”
Commencement vs. Graduation: What's the Difference?
June 06, 2023
Most fields and institutions have their own commonly used lingo, and that’s true for the world of education, too. Some of these terms are more straightforward than others. For example, you probably know what college graduation means—but what about commencement? If you’re suddenly second-guessing yourself, read on.
College of the Arts Hosts Industry Spotlight at Warner Bros. Studios
June 01, 2023
Many actors and filmmakers dream of premiering their films on the big screen, but may have to wait a lifetime to get the opportunity. For Azusa Pacific University students, they only waited until the end of their senior year. APU’s College of the Arts (COTA) hosted the 2023 Industry Spotlight on May 4 at the legendary Warner Bros. studios, giving students in cinematic arts, animation, theater, games and interactive media, art, design, music, and journalism a chance to showcase their work in front of industry talent representatives and casting directors.
Can You Take College Courses at Different Colleges?
June 01, 2023
From unexpected opportunities to pandemics, life can be unpredictable. And while you likely planned to complete your degree at one college, a variety of situations can disrupt your plans. Or perhaps you’re just looking to take a summer course at a college in your hometown. The question is, can you take college courses at different colleges?
How Long Is a College Semester?
May 30, 2023
As a college student, you’re probably juggling what feels like a million things at once. Between classes, assignments, extracurriculars, and maybe even a part-time job, time can feel like your most precious resource. This is why mastering time management is so important to your success and well-being as a student.
What Is Dual Enrollment and What Are Its Benefits?
May 27, 2023
The step from high school to college can feel more like a leap, but there are ways to soften the landing. For example, concurrent enrollment and dual enrollment (sometimes called dual credit) can help you save money during college and prepare you academically so you can show up to your first college class feeling confident and optimistic. But what is dual enrollment, exactly, and how can you get started?
Cheyenne Jimenez ’20 — The Blind Faith of a Boutique Owner
May 26, 2023
On the morning of November 25, 2022, Cheyenne Jimenez ’20 woke up at the crack of dawn, preparing for her biggest day yet as the new owner of her boutique Ariete. As she prepared the space for guests by setting out a cart of food, drinks, and a “spin and win” prize wheel, Jimenez noticed no one lining up for the event like in years past. My first Black Friday as Ariete’s new owner is a failure, she thought. Within the same minute of her perceived flop, Jimenez turned and saw the line of guests she’d been waiting for. “Ushering everybody in was crazy. I had never seen so many people in the store. It was awesome,” she said. “We were serving appetizers and the music was blaring and it was so great. It was Christmas to a tee.” Jimenez’s success that day has been a defining moment during her time as Ariete’s owner. Since then, the Riverside native has been working hard to promote her clothing boutique.
What to Do after You Graduate College: Navigating Post-College Decisions
May 25, 2023
Congratulations—you’re a college graduate! You’ve invested time, passion, and brainpower into the last few years of your life to achieve something truly commendable. You deserve to take a beat and celebrate this milestone with your friends and family.
Faculty Friday: Jenica Morin-Pascual Awarded 48th District Woman of the Year
May 19, 2023
Earlier this year, adjunct professor Jenica Morin-Pascual opened an unexpected email that brought her tears of joy. She had just been named the 2023 California Assembly District 48 Distinguished Woman of the Year. “I was in shock. I had no idea I had been nominated. I felt so honored,” she said. Morin-Pascual flew up to Sacramento with her sister and received the award from Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio ’99, ’03. “It was surreal. It was the experience of a lifetime to be amongst these amazing women. I feel blessed that I’ve had opportunities that I never imagined would come to me, just by doing something I truly love.” Morin-Pascual also received the Public Safety Woman of the Year award for the 22nd District from Senator Susan Rubio ’01.
Can You Major in Being an Influencer?
May 17, 2023
Social media influencers are on the rise, and if you’re seeking a long-term career in this type of role, you’re not alone. Still, can you major in being an influencer? While there may not be a designated major, you can take a few pathways to prepare for a career in this growing industry.
