(English Studies: Writing and Society 1700-1820 MA, 2012)
This was the first time I studied literature within the context of a much larger movement that touched on all elements of society, history, religion, etc. I discovered that it’s through analyzing text that we understand the world, and therefore ourselves.
What initially kindled your interest in literature?
I have always loved to read and did well in writing courses throughout grade school. The hook for me was studying Transcendentalism in my high school English class. This was the first time I studied literature within the context of a much larger movement that touched on all elements of society, history, religion, etc. I discovered that it’s through analyzing text that we understand the world, and therefore ourselves.
How did your postgraduate studies at Queen Mary allow you to explore this interest?
The courses I took at Queen Mary all focused on the relationship between society and literature. I found my studies to be much more interdisciplinary than what I had experienced in the US which gave me a more comprehensive view. Plus, I was specifically researching and writing about the city in which I was living. There are some absolute rock stars on the staff—one of my favourite memories was when Markman Ellis hosted tea as we were studying coffeehouse culture.
What was the most valuable aspect of studying your MA at Queen Mary – what did you gain from the experience both on an intellectual and personal level?
The professors for each module were superb and truly excited to share their expertise, which made learning fun. It was also important to me to take class alongside people from many different countries and backgrounds. I learned much more through group discussion than I would on my own. This broader view of the world was incredibly important to both my personal and professional growth, and I try to apply it to my work each day.
A literature degree requires you to break down texts, analyze, critique, and in turn, ask the big questions that can help solve the problems of today and tomorrow. This is why a liberal arts degree is so great.
How did you find the experience of moving from the US to London to study? What helped you adapt to a new culture and way of life?
I studied in London for a semester as an undergraduate, so the transition came easily the second time around. I could not wait to go back. It was a priority to enroll at an institution beyond the very touristy areas of central London. The London 2012 Olympics were that same year—you could not walk down the street without seeing a Cadbury purple taxi, or a staff member in a purple and red uniform. There was a wonderful, unifying spirit all of us felt being in the city that summer, regardless of our home country.
You currently work as the Manager for Strategic Initiatives and Executive Projects in External Affairs at Northeastern University. Could you tell us about your work and how the skills gained from your degree have been beneficial in your career so far?
The External Affairs division is responsible for enterprise marketing, communications, and government relations for the university’s global network. We manage the brand essence and the storytelling of the place.
Some key parts of my job include writing and managing high-level messaging, managing the commencement speaker selection process and ceremony content, and working with the president’s office on his speaking engagements. It’s a fast-paced environment so there are always new challenges and opportunities.
Decisive and quick writing and editing skills are essential to my work. In the same way that a learner must read a chapter, decipher the key events, and translate what they mean for the character or story arc, it’s critical to be able to understand next steps in a project and how to communicate clearly to leadership. It’s also important to understand the context of the entire university—from California to Toronto to London.
What is the best thing about your current role?
We have an amazingly talented and diverse team and I enjoy collaborating with them daily—there is never a dull moment. With so many creative people in one place, it’s easy to walk over to someone’s desk and strike up conversation or request feedback.
I also love that no two days are alike. In such a large global system, priorities constantly shift and need to be reassessed. It’s exciting and it keeps you on your toes.
What are the greatest misconceptions that students have when it comes to an English literature degree?
I hope this thinking is now antiquated, but when I was a student I was often asked if I would become a teacher. A literature degree requires you to break down texts, analyze, critique, and in turn, ask the big questions that can help solve the problems of today and tomorrow. This is why a liberal arts degree is so great.
What advice do you have for students hoping to pursue a similar career to yours?
Start by honing your skill—whether that’s coding, accounting, biology research, etc.—then decide the type of work you are passionate about. You must have a selling point, like writing, as a basis for success. I chose to work at a university because I believe in the power of education; at one point I considered moving into the corporate world but decided I would only make that move if I believed in the ethos of the company.
If you want to work with executive leadership, you must spend a lot of time listening and learning. You must also refine your interpersonal skills, particularly empathy and flexibility. Perspective is important.
Lastly, keep an eye out for good role models and mentors. Ask questions and apply the answers to your own work.