ASU Student Life editor’s picks: Best of Claire Muranaka

My name is Claire Muranaka, and I recently completed my tenure as a writer for ASU Student Life. I graduated from ASU in December 2020, with a bachelor’s degree in communication with minors in business and Spanish. 

Writing for ASU Student Life has given me the opportunity to connect with amazing ASU students and share their stories with the ASU community.  As my time as a writer for Student Life comes to an end, I wanted to look back on the stories I’ve shared over the past year. Here are some of my favorites: 

Claire Muranaka smiles in her cap and gown on the Palm Walk in Tempe.

ASU mechanical engineering graduate encourages students to get involved

This is the first story I wrote for Student Life back in 2019. Jun Sasaki participated in a variety of different organizations on campus, and his story is an important reminder to make the most of your college experience by getting involved with organizations you’re passionate about. 

Fake blood, drills and skills prep the SDFC for any emergency

I enjoyed learning about the extensive training that the SDFC provides for its employees so that they are ready to help their fellow Sun Devils in the event of a medical emergency. Student workers even described how they were able to help a man who had a heart attack in the SDFC during a racquetball tournament. 

Film student’s capstone project tackles loneliness

This story was one of my favorites to write. Samantha Kinney, the former producer for ASU Student Life, used her personal experiences to create a powerful short film about what it’s like to experience loneliness and offered a new and positive outlook on what loneliness can be.  

Sun Devil finds college success after a few false starts

One of the best parts about working at Student Life is getting to speak with inspiring students and learn about how they got to ASU. Cassandra Ortiz’s story demonstrates persistence and determination in the face of adversity.  Though she faced challenges in her academics at first, Ortiz decided to try something new at ASU: getting involved on campus.  

First-gen ASU grad shares her story with local youth

I spoke with Marlene Ortega about her passion for education and her motivation to help others find academic success. Having to figure out the college application process all on your own can be tough, and Ortega is determined to help younger students be prepared when the time comes. She was involved with SPARKS and First Star, and she shared with others what it’s like to be a first-generation student so that they can learn from her experiences.