Ease of Access From College into Workforce

What I found most noteworthy from the interview on Monday was that English courses teach critical thinking skills which are crucial out in the everyday workforce. This, I think, is the main point that struck me, as it is the one that I hadn't really ever considered before – although, if you think about it makes sense. Critical thinking is needed in order to structure a clear and coherent message or idea in writing, and speaking.

Another noteworthy point I found interesting was what Jennifer told us. She mentioned that English courses help with interview skills. It does this because it helps you make the connections to ‘tell the story’ as she put it for communications and writing skills needed in an interview. This goes along with critical thinking because in order to make the connections and tell the story, you need to focus in and organize the information that is most pertinent to the employer.

Jennifer went on to discuss that leadership skills and being able to influence others is a very beneficial skill in the job world. But she seemed to believe that these skills are mainly acquired through the work force itself.

Amy, had more information on the teaching aspects in the field of English, and she stressed to us that a graduate degree is the best possible way to become a fully licensed teacher, and obtain more money. She suggested that a B.A. helps students get there foot in the door for jobs, but a masters degree helps you move up and achieve those higher entry level jobs.

Both presenters stressed the importance of internships and receiving prior workplace experience before seeking a job. And both agreed that networking is ‘keen’ as Jennifer put it, to obtain jobs out in the real world.

So far, the problem I see will be to take all this information and organize it clearly, but make it more condensed for project 4.

Brainstorming Questions for an English Major

Many, including myself feel what exactly can an English major or minor do for a young college student once out of college? I know that knowing how to write is a very critical skill the job force which can open up a lot of opportunities, but I still feel a little in the dark. Being an English minor myself, I can only hope that my ability to write will help me out (although it probably will not show in this blog post).

Therefore, my questions will be the following for these English scholars who are presenting to our class on Monday.

-What is the typical type of job that a college student with an English major or minor receives out of college?

-What type(s) of job(s) did you have after college?

-How exactly does being an English major or minor make you a more well-rounded employee?

These are only a few questions that came to mind, but I am sure that when our class is listening to their presentation we will have a lot of useful information and learn (hopefully) enough to make us employable.