Julia Fessenden

Class of 2021

  • Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in history
  • Schreyer Honors scholar

What do you currently do professionally?
I am an instructional assistant for third and fourth grades.

How has majoring in English helped you on your career pathway(s)?
As soon as I graduated with my degree, I started at my current position.

What knowledge and skills help you succeed in your job on a daily basis (and, possibly, in unanticipated ways)?
My work as a peer tutor [in the Penn State Altoona Writing Commons] is constantly used in my job.

In what (unanticipated) ways has the English major impacted your life beyond your profession?
I am more able to run my D&D group as a result of my time working with English texts.

What is your favorite experience from your time in the English program?
Modern American Literature with Dr. Kelley Wagers. The group with which I worked, the texts with which I worked, and the teacher with whom I worked were a once-in-a-lifetime perfect storm.

What advice do you have for current English majors or students considering entry into the field in which you’re currently working?
Be prepared for education as a field.

February 2023