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JPL Hike (Gabrielino Trail) w/ Jillian Pierson {Communications}

  • Gabrielino Trail Western Trailhead N Arroyo Blvd Altadena, CA 91001 (map)

Signups will go live Sunday after wave release, you will be redirected to the homepage otherwise

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab shoots for the stars, but here at Peaks we like to stay grounded. Join us for this scenic Saturday morning hike on the “JPL Hike,” or part of the Gabrielino Trail. Once we drive to the trailhead, we’ll walk around 4 miles with a moderate 950ft elevation gain, and enjoy a refreshing stroll with even fresher conversations through nature. Joining us will be professor Jillian Pierson, a Communications professor who focuses on the social science side of the field, especially in cultural issues. Join us if you’re looking for a chill but active start to your Saturday with lots of fun conversations!

PACKING LIST:

  • Snacks

  • Water

  • Sunscreen

  • Waivers

  • Good vibes



PROFESSOR: JILLIAN PIERSON

DEPARTMENT: COMMUNICATIONS

RATE MY PROFESSOR: “She’s the best! Funny and smart.”

Professor Pierson is a Clinical Professor of Communication at USC Annenberg, who has a diverse set of experiences in the field. She has researched and consulted with high-tech companies in the U.S. and Singapore, worked at a top Hollywood talent agency’s classical music management division, and coached numerous young professionals in career development. Inspired by these experiences and her interest in understanding the intersection of cultures and organizations, she teaches courses on the social science side of communication, with special focus on cultural issues now at USC. And she has been a dedicated Trojan — earning both her masters and doctorate degrees from USC Annenberg.


PEAK: JPL Hike

DIFFICULTY: 2/5 (we won’t hike the full Gabrielino Trail)

SCENERY: beautiful scenery with lots of wildflowers and shade!

FUN FACT: horses are also able to use this trail… maybe next time we’ll get Traveler to come with us


TRIP LEAD: NANA FUJITA

has a better haircut now, hopefully

Contact Nana: nanaefuj@usc.edu

Read Nana’s bio here.