Meaghan Clohessy
Year: 2014
What are your areas of study and why did you choose them?
I have a double major in creative writing and American history. Since I decided early on not to have a life in school, I also have a minor in political science. History has very much influenced my writing – I write nonfiction – and vice versa. I could not imagine doing one without the other. I added political science to challenge myself with the research component of history while further inspiring my writing.
What’s your hometown and what do you love about it?
I come from Milwaukee, a city in the magical land known as Wisconsin. Though it does not carry the same zombie fame as Pittsburgh, it is a very friendly and energetic city. Everything I love about it boils down to our summers, whether it’s going to a Brewers game, stuffing myself with deep fried Oreos at State Fair, or going down to Lake Michigan to visit one of the many cultural festivals. It’s fun watching the little bit of envy pass through my friends here when I tell them my summer plans.
Favorite Books:
1984 – George Orwell
A Series of Unfortunate Events – Lemony Snicket
Elsewhere – Gabrielle Zevin
Maus – Art Spiegelman
Haunted – Chuck Palahniuk
Favorite Movies:
Oh, this is going to be a tough one…
Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Candyman (1992)
Moneyball (2011)
Fight Club (1999)
Citizen Kane (1941)
Favorite TV Shows:
Parks and Recreation
Scrubs
M*A*S*H
House
The Newsroom
Favorite Musicians/Bands:
Queen
The Police
Alan Parsons Project
Panic! at the Disco
Green Day
Queen (needed to restate it for emphasis)
What is your favorite holiday treat?
I always go for eggnog!
What do you love most about the holiday season at Chatham and why?
I love the holiday traditions at Chatham: Thanksgiving Dinner and Candlelight. It’s a great way to see your friends after we have all locked ourselves in our dorms and the 24-hour computer lab to get things done. It may still be stressful, but for these couple of nights we can relax and have some fun.
Why did you choose Chatham?
I originally chose Chatham to be closer to extended family in Philadelphia and New York. Going through the years, however, I really chose it because I love the city of Pittsburgh and the Chatham atmosphere. I have never felt more supported in a single place.
What do you love most about being a Chatham student?
At Chatham, I cultivated an independence that would not have been possible had I gone to another school. Here I feel comfortable being who I am and having people who will cheer me on through my journey. The Chatham experience is different for everyone and I like to think I made the most of it.