Africana Studies: Saladin Ambar

Catholic FBI Burglars

Senior English Major Danielle Sekerak on Phone Interviews for Law School

My English major has significantly impacted my ability to communicate—and not just on paper. I am currently in the process of applying to law schools, and I received a request for a phone interview from a top 20 school. Initially, I was nervous; how could I effectively and eloquently communicate my personality as an applicant through the phone? After feeling like I only had a few short days to prepare, I realized that I had been preparing for this phone interview for the past three and a half years; every English class I have ever taken has done the remarkable job of improving my vocabulary, my ability to think on the spot, and my overall oral discussion skills.

Danielle Sekerak

In my interview, I was able to articulate my thoughts with sophistication and respond to questions with confidence. In fact, the woman interviewing me informed me that the law school normally does not notify applicants of their acceptance or rejection until a few weeks after the phone interview, but I received an email three days later congratulating me on my acceptance. I have no doubt that my personality and passion were communicated through the phone—all thanks to the English Department! While the English major has certainly improved my writing skills, it has also made me a confident and eloquent speaker—a skill that all future professions desire.

Literary Festival: James McBride

Prepare for the Fair

Journalism Job at Montgomery Media

We’ve received notice of a journalism job at Montgomery Media from Thomas Celona, one of our English major alumni (from the class of 2009).  Here's the description from Thomas:

Montgomery Media is seeking a full-time general assignment reporter to join its award-winning staff in delivering local news to our communities.  The ideal candidate is social media savvy, has earned a bachelor’s degree and has had student and/or professional journalism experience.  Previous work with photography and videography is a plus. The job entails some night and weekend work, so schedule flexibility is imperative.  This is an ideal opportunity for someone who is getting started in the journalism industry. The position includes health care benefits and 401(K).

Interested? Send a cover letter, resume and three writing clips to montcomediaeditors@21st-centurymedia.com, or mail them to 307 Derstine Avenue, Lansdale, PA 19446, attention to Thomas Celona and Ann Cornell.

Welcome Back Coffee Hour

Writing Your Way to Happiness

A recent New York Times article discussed research on the benefits of "expressive writing."  According to the article, "Studies have shown that writing about oneself and personal experiences can improve mood disorders, help reduce symptoms among cancer patients, improve a person’s health after a heart attack, reduce doctor visits and even boost memory."  Moreover, "Now researchers are studying whether the power of writing — and then rewriting — your personal story can lead to behavioral changes and improve happiness."

To read the entire article, click here.

Career Fair

Trip to Turner Broadcasting in New York City

English majors are especially welcome to apply for a spot on this trip.

Students interested in exploring careers with Turner Broadcasting in New York City are encouraged to apply for a coveted spot on this one-day trek. You'll have the exciting opportunity to travel to New York City to meet and visit with professionals working at Turner Broadcasting. You'll hear from Joseph Dugan, Senior Vice President of Turner Digital Sales at Turner Broadcasting, and other working professionals at Turner - many of whom are Villanova alumni - who will share with you the "ins and outs" of working successfully in the broadcasting industry. You'll also tour the research lab at Turner and see first-hand how research is dynamically applied in the "real world." Apply through GoNovaJobs by submitting a resume and cover letter explaining why you would be an ideal fit for the trek. 

If you have questions, please contact: kathryn.szumanski@villanova.edu