From Hong Kong to the Governor’s Office: The Unexpected Places CAHSS Takes You

From the moment Emerson Fox arrived at the University of Denver, everything felt new. Fox grew up in Hong Kong, nearly 7,500 miles from Denver, and crossed the Pacific Ocean to begin her undergraduate journey in the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences (CAHSS).  

“I remember my first quarter here. I was super overwhelmed,” she said. “No one really prepares you for the culture shock.”  

Now, as she prepares to graduate this June with a double major in English and communication studies and a minor in international studies, Fox’s early uncertainty has grown into confidence in herself and her academic and professional skills. She hopes to pursue a career in public relations, with long-term aspirations of working in the aerospace sector.  

Fox’s path did not begin with a fixed plan but instead took shape through mentorship and exploration within CAHSS. It started with a political communication course taught by associate professor Dakota E. Park-Ozee.  

“That class really set the ball rolling,” Fox said. “Dr. Park-Ozee’s course opened my eyes to how communication shapes public understanding, policy, and impact.”  

Additional coursework in English and communication studies helped Fox develop both analytical depth and practical skills, an interdisciplinary combination that reflects the flexibility of a CAHSS education.  

“CAHSS courses give you a different perspective that allows you to understand communication more deeply,” she said. “Growing up in a different culture shaped how I present myself and connect with others.”  

Those skills came into focus during one of her most formative experiences at DU: an internship last fall with Colorado Gov. Jared Polis’ Office of Strategic Initiatives and Federal Funds. Fox worked on projects supported by federal funding, helping synthesize complex information and present key initiatives for consideration.  

One of those projects, a mobile health clinic program serving communities in need, was ultimately selected. Fox credits her CAHSS coursework with giving her the confidence to communicate clearly, think critically, and contribute meaningfully in a professional setting.  

She also points to faculty support as essential to her growth, especially from professors who helped her navigate internships and career possibilities.  

“Having mentors who believe in you makes a huge difference,” Fox said. “They help you see what’s possible and how to get there.”  

As graduation approaches, Fox reflects on her journey with perspective.  

“You’re always in the right place for you, even if it’s hard to remember that,” she said. “Keep learning, be kind, and do your best. Your path will become clear.”