Joni Cobarrubias graduated spring 2020 with a drive to continue building the photography and Etsy businesses she started while she was still in school.

Cobarrubias, a recent graduate from the Edward R. Murrow College of Communication, said she majored in advertising with the hopes of pursuing her entrepreneurship endeavors.

Cobarrubias said she became involved with many organizations on campus such as the Filipino American Student Association, The Daily Evergreen advertising department in fall 2017, as well as the Asian American and Pacific Islander Student Center.

“While at WSU, I learned a lot about work ethic, what I am passionate about, and how I want to incorporate that into what I want to do professionally,” she said. 

She also was a member of the Chi Delta Sigma sorority, which is the only Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Interest Sorority on campus, she said.

Camille Naputo, friend of Cobarrubias and recent WSU graduate, said Cobarrubias showed academic grit. Cobarrubias earned a 4.0 GPA during the fall and spring semesters of her senior year, she said.

“There isn’t just one time that Joni demonstrated grit, she is the definition of grit,” Naputo said. “She holds herself to such a high standard and keeps herself accountable to all of her work.”

While at WSU, Cobarrubias said she also launched an Etsy shop called “Generasian.” She said she creates and sells “cute and relatable designs,” including stickers, tote bags and other apparel items.

“Make sure to create a clear brand identity, as well as plan for what you want to do,” Cobarrubias said. 

She said she also practices freelance photography. Cobarrubias said she enjoys having photoshoots for occasions like graduation season.

“In regards to photography, my biggest advice is to not be afraid to hold photoshoots with friends and use that to build your portfolio,” she said. 

Cobarrubias said because COVID-19 put a halt on her job search, she is currently a volunteer for the social media magazine called “Unpublished.” She said she plans to build her resume with the goal of moving to Mesa, Arizona.

“I am more than confident that the qualities — as a leader — Joni possesses will be able to contribute nothing but great things to any work environment that she finds herself in,” Naputo said.