English Careers
What can I do with an English major?
If a love of reading, writing and contemplating the human experience led you to the Department of English , you may be wondering—and your family may be asking—what you will do with a degree in English. Over the years English majors have found fulfilling careers as journalists, web editors, program directors for nonprofit organizations, professional writers and copy editors. We have placed teachers throughout North Carolina and beyond, and students regularly go on to excel in graduate programs.
Interns and Success Stories
An internship is a place to start, a chance for a student to observe a certain profession at work and apply some of her classroom knowledge on a project or two. Meredith students who intern as part of the professional writing minor often find that their writing, editing and project management skills are put to work immediately and their perspectives taken seriously.
The Triangle area offers endless possibilities for internships, and Meredith English majors and minors are especially sought out for their strong writing and organizational skills. It is common for our interns to be offered positions at their internship placements, and it is routine for the onsite supervisors to ask us to continue sending Meredith students for future placements. In fact, we find it difficult to fill all of the requests we receive. These results speak well for the preparation our students receive in their course work.
Graduate Profile: I Make an Impact
“At Meredith I majored in English and biology with a concentration in environmental science. While I was at Meredith I learned that I loved writing and the intricacies of grammar. Now, I’m the editor of two newsletters that come out five times a year and one newsletter that is published electronically every six weeks. My coworkers come to me for grammar and editing questions. It makes me feel like I really learned something in grammar class.
My biology studies have a quieter role in my work. I am more aware of my role as a human and how to function in the ecosystem. Everyone has an impact on everyone else. I think that reflects in the mission of our company. VIF is the largest international exchange program for teachers. Teachers come here to educate American children about the world. Then the teachers return home and teach about the U.S.”
Leslie Maxwell, ’01. Communications Coordinator, Visiting International Faculty Program, Chapel Hill, NC.
Camaraderie at Meredith: “I was around professors and classmates who made me want to learn, grow and have fun.”
Balancing Act: “I got a lot out of my Meredith experience because I wanted to. It wasn’t always easy. I worked two jobs on campus. I had a double major. I was active in the class of 2001. I was involved because the activities were fun – yet also demanding.”
Graduate Studies
An English degree can prepare you for graduate study in literature, education, law and a number of other fields. For help selecting a graduate program, contact Dr. Robin Colby at colbyr@meredith.edu or (919) 760-2290.
Board of Advisors
The professional writing minor maintains a board of advisors who keep us in touch with workplace trends and career opportunities. Members visit classes and meet with students to share their expertise and advice. If you would like to serve on this board, please contact Dr. Rebecca Duncan at duncanr@meredith.edu or (919) 760-2291.
Contact Us
Please keep in touch. We love to hear your personal and professional stories! Contact Dr. Rebecca Duncan at duncanr@meredith.edu
or fill out the form below .
English Department Alumnae Information Update
