My background? I’m a SoCal gal all the way: born in San Diego, raised in Santa Barbara, ended up in L.A. My education? Public schools for K-12, then SBCC for my transfer units (but wish I’d gotten my A.A. degree!), and on to CSUN for B.A and M.A., both in Communication Studies. I feel very fortunate to have ended up teaching at GCC!

I like to get to know my students, but for now, here’s a bit about me…the most important thing to me is to make time for my family and friends. In addition, I love nature. I walk, run, bike, and hike. I want to travel more in the future than I’m able to now, so I try to enjoy my life as it is. I stop to smell the roses (literally), feed peanuts to the blue jays on my balcony, read whatever I can get my hands on, and try to be a good citizen of the planet.

I have always been curious about interpersonal communication and how people perceive each other as well as how they relate to one another. Growing up in various areas of California has helped me gain knowledge of a wide range of international cultures and U.S. co-cultures. I love teaching and look forward to coming to my classes - I get excited when students connect with the material, with each other, and with me. Studying and teaching communication theory in practice is my life’s work and though I doubt any of you will be as excited as I am, I hope you enjoy the journey!

~ Prof Karen Swett