On April 14, 2026, the Digital Studies Institute hosted the first-ever celebration for graduating seniors titled “404: Degree Found.” Students, staff, and faculty gathered to congratulate graduates on achieving this academic milestone. While at the party, students chatted with their favorite professors, enjoyed a slice of cake, and received DSI graduation gifts.
According to Sarah Torsch, DSI’s Academic Program Specialist, this event provided students with a celebratory stepping stone into their next chapter of life. The hope was to reward students’ academic achievements and foster a continued relationship with DSI minors as alumni. A graduation survey allowed students to reflect on their undergraduate DSI courses and provide contact information for alumni communications regarding job and research opportunities.
“I love seeing the spark that our students have for post-grad,” Sarah said. “It’s cool to see students who are at the end of their college career and are looking forward to this next chapter. They have so much excitement for their next journey.” Because Digital Studies is such an interdisciplinary field, students will be able to carry what they’ve learned in the DSI across a wide range of careers.
For Biology major Vincent Maribao, his goal is to bring his digital studies knowledge into the medical field, learning how to ethically merge machine and medicine. “This minor taught me how Artificial Intelligence (AI) impacts society,” Vincent said. “There should be a partnership between humans and machines to make the most of what AI has to offer.” Vincent shared that while many Language Learning Models (LLMs) have flaws, developing programs such as OpenEvidence, an LLM developed by doctors and backed by research, can be a useful tool for physicians.
Computer Science and Engineering major Juliana Santillan said that the DSI courses allowed her to notice how little details in digital media “have an impact on the broader scope of the world.” In DIGITAL 333, “Video Games and Learning,” Juliana had the opportunity to analyze one of her favorite video games, Pikmin 4, on the Nintendo Switch. The class allowed her to dive into strategy mechanics and learn how skills such as time management are developed from playing video games. Her next chapter will include working in app development for Domino’s Pizza, and she’s excited to implement her digital studies knowledge to design a user-friendly interface for both customers and employees.
One of the other benefits of the DSI minor is access to incredible technology across campus. FTVM major Edna Rosas-Aguilera loved getting to use Virtual Reality in DIGITAL 394 and use audio editing software in DIGITAL 200, “The Art of Podcasting.” These technologies across campus have introduced Edna to emerging mediums of media production and made her “better at communicating and talking with people.”
For English major Megan Degrand, her DSI classes provided an eye-opening education about everything that goes unnoticed in the digital world. “The internet is like the ocean,” said Megan. “You think you know everything, but it’s just the surface. There’s so much more that is unexplored.” Especially with AI taking off at accelerating rates, Megan stressed the importance of critical thinking. “Unfortunately, critical thinking is a dying art,” Megan said. “The DSI has helped me to be more informed and form my own thoughts before jumping on the bandwagon of what other people are thinking.”
From AI to video games to emerging technology, DSI courses have been vital to help students responsibly navigate the digital world. Even after these graduates move their tassels and toss their caps, the DSI will remain a community and a resource they are welcome to return to as alumni. To the class of 2026, we wish you all the best with all of your future endeavors!
