Ana Fingerson is a proud Sonoma State alumna who had the opportunity to apply for a position at the Press Democrat. Fingerson is being highlighted as an alumna for her achievements after graduation and is a loved student and friend by many.
Fingerson graduated in 2023 with a degree in communications and media studies. The beginning of her time at Sonoma was a little unknown due to being an undeclared major until Fingerson, “fell in love with the major and all the people involved in it.”
Fingerson is a first-generation college student, meaning her studies are a “big deal” to her. She traveled far from her home in San Luis Obispo to study at Sonoma State, where she pushed herself and found a community. School was not always easy, and Fingerson ended up taking a semester off to work and save up to afford and continue her education.
Fingerson’s college experience was affected by COVID-19. However, when returning for her last year, Fingerson said it “exceeded my expectations.” In her final year at Sonoma, she found a passion for writing, met best friends, a boyfriend, a mentor and enjoyed the community around her. “I’m so lucky to have made Sonoma County my home,” Fingerson said. Since May, Fingerson has been working full-time as a lead at Peet’s Coffee, which “introduced me to the community and world outside of the SSU campus.” She has met many locals in Sonoma County and learned fantastic stories and backgrounds. Fingerson thoroughly enjoyed being a Peet’s Coffee lead but had higher expectations for jobs right after graduation. “It’s been a roller coaster applying and seeking job opportunities to support my career path,” Fingerson said.
Fingerson’s mentor, Corinne Asturias, is significant to her and is how she landed a job with The Press Democrat. Asturias initially worked for The Press Democrat as the features editor before becoming the Stars faculty advisor for five years. After both Asturias retired and Fingerson graduated in 2023, they reconnected to seek job opportunities for Fingerson together. “Corinne encouraged me to keep writing and seeking jobs. We looked at postings together,” Fingerson said. Asturias supported Fingerson through the hiring process, and they got to know each other better. “Corinne has become someone I look up to. I really care about her opinion and getting to share all the good news I have with her,” Fingerson said.
Applying for the Press Democrats was a long process. “I had about a month of interviewing, sending in samples, and doing writing tests,” Fingerson said. A job came up a few weeks ago, and Fingerson accepted it and is grateful. “I’m excited. I’ve missed journalism being a part of my every day the way it was during my time in the STAR.” Her position there will be a digital intern. That consists of working on the website, promoting stories on social media, writing, digital editing and so much more.
Fingerson is excited about the future and where it will take her and help her grow. “I’m stoked to be where I’m at right now. I’ve continued to work hard, be persistent, and get support from my mentors and resources,” she said. In a couple of years, Fingerson hopes to pursue her master’s degree, continue working in journalism, and travel more.
