Teisy Zavala-Cortez may never have heard Helen Keller’s comment, “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all,” but the Creative Media major embraces this philosophy, nonetheless.
When Zavala-Cortez enrolled at Stan State, she embraced a relatively new major that combines art and other forms of communication.
“The most powerful thing I’ve learned at Stan State is the importance of seeking out experiences that help you grow as a creator and expand your creativity,” Zavala-Cortez said. “In creative media, it’s not enough to just take in knowledge; it’s about pushing yourself, stepping outside your comfort zone and diving into hands-on projects that challenge you.”
Zavala-Cortez isn’t just up for a challenge, but for an adventure.
Twice she studied in South Korea, spending fall 2022 at Chung Ang University and spring 2024 at Korea University.
“The first time I went, it was right after COVID,” Zavala-Cortez said. “I wanted a change from my usual environment. Taking that leap felt huge and I was extremely nervous heading to the airport, knowing there was no turning back. I went alone, but I carried hope with me.
“More than anything, I wanted to see what I was capable of and to find out what else was inside me. I fell in love with the country and its culture, and it made me realize that the world is full of surprises.”
It took her a while to raise the money for another semester abroad, but Zavala-Cortez managed to return to Seoul.
“I felt so proud of myself,” she said. “Through it all, I grew in ways I never expected. I became more independent, more confident and more open to the world. I proved to myself that I could handle big challenges and grow in unfamiliar environments that once felt intimidating. I will carry those experiences and memories with me all of my life, and I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat.”
While Zavala-Cortez felt thrilled about visiting a different part of the world and experiencing a new culture, she also enjoyed coming home. After all, attending Stan State was a decision long in the making.
“I’d visited the campus as a little kid — just walking around, imagining what it would be like to be a student here,” she said. “It’s crazy to think back on those visits and realize how long I’d been waiting to be part of this community.”
Both times she returned, she said, she felt welcomed back by the community and jumped back into her Stan State life.
That included learning about her discipline and herself.
“I learned the most about resilience, about asking for help and about showing up for myself,” she said.
Zavala-Cortez dreams of working in television as a producer and director, telling the stories of those whose voices are too often unheard.
“I believe that every person has a unique perspective, and my mission is to create spaces where those stories can be told with authenticity and depth,” she said.
In particular, she’d like to see that the local community is heard.
“I want to use my skills to foster connection and spark important conversations within our region,” Zavala-Cortez said.
Director of Marketing and Digital Strategy Mandeep Khaira expects Zavala-Cortez to succeed.
“Teisy is an excellent example of a Warrior making the most of her college experience,” Khaira said. “In addition to studying abroad where she gained a global perspective, she was involved in the student newspaper, staying engaged with campus life. Now, in her final semester, she’s taking on an internship to further set herself up for success in the real-world setting.
“She’s bringing ideas to our department and is eager to learn and gain knowledge to take with her. Her drive to explore, learn and grow shows current and future Warriors the value of involvement beyond the classroom.”
#StanGrad File
Name
Teisy Zavala-Cortez
Hometown
Modesto, CA
Degree/Credential
Bachelor of Arts in Creative Media
What memories stand out most from your time at Stanislaus State?
“One of the memories that stands out most from my time at Stanislaus State was coming back from studying abroad and seeing all the familiar faces I’d missed. Walking through campus, running into friends, classmates and professors who remembered me was such a warm feeling. It made me realize how much of a home this place had become. I felt proud to be back, like I was returning not just to a school, but to a community that felt familiar and had shaped me and welcomed me back with open arms.”
Which faculty or staff member had the greatest impact on you, and why?
“Shannon Stevens had the greatest impact on me. She saw potential in me during a time when I was still trying to find my major, and her belief in me changed everything. She pushed me to dig deeper, to be honest in my work and to take creative risks. More than anything, she made me feel like my voice mattered and helped me discover that I too want to help others’ voices be heard.”
What advice would you give to current and future students?
“Whether it’s studying abroad, starting a new creative project or putting your work out there for the first time, don’t be afraid to take the leap. Some of the most meaningful growth I experienced came from moments that scared me a little. If you’re a Creative Media student, remember that your perspective matters. Your voice has the power to connect people and create change. And if you get the chance to study abroad, go. The world is so much bigger than you think, and coming back, you’ll see campus, your work and even yourself with new eyes. Don’t be afraid to take risks in your creative journey because even setbacks are valuable lessons that shape who you become. Ask questions, collaborate with your peers and trust that every experience, no matter how challenging, is paving the way to your unique path.”
Note: This article is part of the StanGrad series highlighting Stanislaus State students who are part of the Class of 2025. Read more StanGrad profiles.
