Tell us a little bit about yourself…
I’m a senior print journalism major from Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. Aside from classes, I’m quite busy around campus. I am a tour guide on campus, as well as work at Local Yogurt. I’m also involved with Alpha Xi Delta sorority and serve as the social chair. Oh, and my little brother is this week’s Campus Cutie.
Claim to fame…
After spending the summer in New York City, I was able to make a connection with the managing editor of the online fashion and entertainment website iFashion Times. Beginning this summer I started writing multiple fashion and entertainment stories for publication on the website. It’s truly been a great experience and helped prepare me for the industry I hope to work in following graduation.
What inspires you?
I’m really inspired by success stories – which is why I think I enjoy the entertainment industry so much. Most celebrities have achieved their dreams and are obviously flourishing. I think that is an amazing thing, and being able to watch their successes as a member of the general public makes me that more motivated to be successful and achieve my own dreams – to one day write for a magazine like Entertainment Weekly.
Break it down for us… (what’s it all about?)
I think having an internship that prepares you for a future career is absolutely crucial. While Elon only requires you to complete one internship, having more than one can give you a wider range of experience and more opportunities to grow as a potential job candidate.
Why should other students get involved?
I’ve had three (hopefully four before I graduate) internships while at Elon, and I would be lying if I said I loved them all. While all were wonderful learning experiences and I don’t regret them, having a variety of job experiences has helped me realize what I do and don’t want to do for a career.
So I suggest doing more than the bare minimum – apply for as many different internships as you can and get your foot in the door at as many places as possible. And look outside your major! I’m journalism major and did an internship that was public relations-based. It helped me realize that it was not my strong suit and was not the industry I wanted to be in. It could have the opposite effect for you, though. You could realize you’re good at and enjoy working in an industry you never thought you would!
What else are you involved in on campus?
Like I said before – a little bit of everything. Aside from tour guiding, I also am a member of the senior Leadership Fellows class and the Isabella Cannon Leadership Program. I worked for the Pendulum for three years as a copy editor and a senior reporter for the Arts and Entertainment section, as well.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time I like to spend time with my friends. I have an undying and compulsive need to shop. I love television and movies. I also love crafts – I’m quite a fan of the DIY projects on Pinterest.