“One of the compliments I received during my internship with the US Senate was that I had a very clear, easily understandable writing style. I believe the classes I had taken for my English degree really helped me to excel in this role and communicate effectively. I also think that the professional skills I have learned while working on my English degree helped me to represent WKU and our English department well”

Autumn Jones is a senior at Western Kentucky University who is a dedicated and accomplished English major, hoping to attend law school in the future.

“I am involved in the Professional Writing Club, I work as a tutor at the Writing Center, and I worked for the Talisman one semester. Also Ted Hovet Conference last fall. WKU’s Professional Writing program is what made me decide to pursue an English Degree. I have always had a love for reading and writing, but because I have plans to attend law school, I wanted to pursue a degree that would help me in that area of my life” Jones shares.

As a Writing Center tutor Jones says that “in working there, I have found a passion for working with others to help improve their writing skills. I also feel like my writing abilities have improved since working here. Before working there, I had used their services once. It was extremely helpful for me, and I encourage other students to visit us at least once during your time at WKU.”

Jones was also a teaching assistant (TA) in Dr. Fife’s English 299 class. “Some of my responsibilities in this role include teaching the students about various professional development documents like resumes, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles that they can use in their future careers. I have also revised class assignments and worked with students to help them find experiences and activities that could help them work toward their future professional goals” says Jones.

“I have taken two of Dr. Fifes classes, ENG 229 and Argument and Analysis, both of which have been extremely beneficial in my academic journey. She has also been a mentor for me in encouraging me to apply for opportunities like my job at The Writing Center, my current internship, my participation at the Ted Hovet Undergraduate Conference last fall, and as I apply to Law School currently” Jones highlights.

Jones was also able to secure an internship with the US Senate during her second semester at Western Kentucky University. “I did not expect to be picked for it, because I felt that I was underqualified and too young. I am so glad that I decided to apply because it was a great experience for me and allowed me to meet a lot of amazing people. While in this position, I got to attend hearings about current political issues and events happening in our country. I also got to give visiting Kentucky constituents tours of the Capitol building, which was one of my favorite things to do. I also just really enjoyed living in Washington, D.C. for a while” Jones explains.

“Listening to hearings and writing summaries over them were both challenging and rewarding. I was constantly worried that I was missing important details, but then my supervisor commended me for my writing abilities and showed me that I need to stop doubting my writing abilities” says Jones.

Jones’s advice to other students interested in pursuing an English degree is to use a planner and stay organized. She also emphasizes using the writing center for all students wanting to improve their writing skills.