English Alumni Profiles

Majoring in English allowed me to pursue various opportunities that ultimately wove together the unique skillset I leverage in my current role at Cisco… English classes at Penn State Altoona sharpened my critical thinking and collaboration skills, which are vital for the business world.
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Cameron Conaway, BA in English, MFA in Creative Writing (University of Arizona), Executive MBA (University of San Francisco), Leader of growth marketing for Cisco Networking Academy; award-winning poet, business writer, and journalist; adjunct professor of digital marketing

You use communication, writing, and reading skills every day, and those who become really accomplished at writing become invaluable in today's world.
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Lauren Everett-Hayes, BA in English, Minor in Professional Writing, Access and Collections Coordinator, L.A. Beeghly Library, Juniata College

Being forced to think critically turns into a natural reflex, much like going to the gym… And much like the gym, where you feel your strength increase with every passing month, you can feel your critical thinking skills increase with every new book you read.
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Haldan Jacobson, BA in English and Political Science, Educational Aide, Malcolm X Elementary School, Washington, D.C.; Peace Corps Volunteer, The Gambia, West Africa (beginning 2023)

The ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and with constant awareness of my intended audience and overall goals for a piece—be it a cover letter, grant, or scientific manuscript—has allowed me not only to succeed in my own job but to help my colleagues and employers elevate their works as well.
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Becca Betty, BA in English and BS in Biology, Science communication specialist, MA candidate in English Literature

I’ve developed a better understanding of other cultures, I’ve been able to teach some of the most incredible minds that (really) taught me more in return, and I've pursued my passion of trying to create a better and more equitable world. And this is just the beginning.
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Diana Forry, BA in English, Ph.D. candidate in English Literature, Duquesne University

As an English teacher, I am tasked with helping my students develop their writing and reading skills, so having majored in English has supported my ability to excel in both areas.
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Maria Canela, BA in English, M.Ed in Education, Arcadia University, High school English literature teacher

As an inventor and a business owner, I find that drafting documents and technical writing are a major portion of my output.
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Colin Lennox, BA in English and BS in Environmental Studies, Inventor, Ecologist, CEO

My work as a peer tutor [in the Penn State Altoona Writing Commons] is constantly used in my job.
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Julia Fessenden, BA in English (Schreyer Honors Scholar), minor in history, Instructional assistant for third and fourth grade

My favorite experience in the English program was the study abroad trip to London.... It was my first real travel experience in a foreign country, and it laid the foundation for a love of travel that is still one of the most important parts of my life.
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Christopher Paul Brown, BA in English, M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, Penn State, English teacher, Bishop Guilfoyle High School, adjunct instructor of English, Penn State Altoona

My degree in English has helped me to foster relationships with colleagues and communicate well interpersonally ... The English and writing faculty at Penn State Altoona care about you.
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Christina Seymour, BA in English, MFA in Creative Writing, West Virginia University, Assistant Professor in Writing Communication, Maryville College