The Kids Might Stand a Chance

The Philadelphia School District has seen a whirlwind of obstacles, starting with former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett decimating spending for public education, and cutting thousands of workers. Since then there has been many problems pointed out, such as Philadelphia teachers being forced to pay more for health benefits, yet still being paid less than their suburban counterparts. The ugly truth behind the Philadelphia School District is simple: we’re not doing enough. Pennsylvania representative Jordan Harris can attest to this. Harris attended John Bartram Motivation High School, and later went on to teach in the Philadelphia School District. The insight he gained from the transition from student to teacher quickly pushed him in the world of local politics, where he could focus on setting up the local youth for a better future through improving education.

As we spoke of his experience in the system, Harris tells me he received adequate resources to prepare him for the future, and he recalls a high graduation rate when he graduated in 2002. Harris is lucky, as this is not the common case in this district. According to the state Department of Education’s annual School Performance Profile, more than 15,000 children are stranded in Philadelphia schools that are failing (scoring below 40 on the SPP). Even more troubling is the racial math: 70 percent of the children in these schools are African-American, and 79 percent live in poverty. However, when asked about opportunities, Harris admits they were limited. His school only offered one language course, and few advanced courses were offered. Looking back he says now: “I would have loved to see some variety in the classes, there were no real options. It was this is what you get and that’s it.”

From there he went onto earn his Bachelor’s Degree from Millersville University in Governmental and Political Affairs. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Education from Cabrini College. Harris admits his career in teaching was not entirely intentional. He explains once he left college, a friend recommended an open teaching position while he was searching for a job. He took the job and this is ultimately when he fell in love with education and teaching. Working with these children and managing a classroom lead him to crave giving more to the system. He decided at this point: “I needed to find a way to get to a position where I would not just be able to have a voice but to have influence and impact”.

In 2012 Harris was elected to the State Legislature, representing the 186th Legislative District in Philadelphia. With this new position, he finally could drive change Philadelphia’s education system, ultimately progressing the youth. His passion for the youth and insight he gained from his knowledge from his days in the classroom carried through to his work in public service. His hands-on experience in the Philadelphia public school system gave him an advantage that most of his colleagues did not have: “They have no idea the demand that’s on the teacher. They also don’t always recognize what the issues are. The only way we know what the issues are is from someone telling us. They’ve never experienced those things”.

Kerri Mazur: Internal Medicine

Fig. 1: Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital (top), lollipops (bottom left), and a resident pondering what her life as a physician will be

Throughout my life as a student, I have always enjoyed classes that were centered around the biological and physical sciences.

Fig. 2: Students pictured during a chemistry lab

In my family, there are many people who work in healthcare professions. It is something I have been exposed to for a while and am drawn to. From a young age I believed that this was the career path for me.

Fig. 3: A diverse array of health care professionals

When it was time for me to go to college, I chose the University of Scranton because of the esteemed science curriculum and values held by the university.

Fig. 4: The University of Scranton logo

There are many different specialties that a person has to consider. Due to personal life experiences and a drive to want to make a difference, I felt a pull towards being a physician who specializes in patients with eating disorders.

Fig. 5: Logo for the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)

In the United States alone, there are an estimated 30 million people who suffer from an eating disorder, whether that be Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder (just to name a few).

Fig. 6: Statistical visual of eating disorder sufferers

In order to reach the end goal–helping those suffering to find a life in recovery–there is a long, difficult process to get there. It includes many years of schooling, an arduous exam, clinical shadowing/direct patient contact hours, and a residency relevant to specialty.

Fig. 7: Study materials for the exam (background), a stressed out student (foreground), and a clock highlighting long hours of dedication

During my time as an undergraduate, I have to take courses that will satisfy the prerequisite requirements necessary for admission to medical school. These include, but are not limited to, biology, chemistry, upper-level math, and English literature.

Fig. 8: A large stack of necessary materials for Pre-Med students

Once a student completes their undergraduate phase, it is then time to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). This is a seven hour long standardized exam to assess students in their knowledge of the sciences.

Fig. 9: Cartoon image depicting the magnitude and importance of the exam

After the MCAT is completed and a score is issued, it is time to apply to medical school. One school that I am particularly drawn to is the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine.

Fig. 10: UCSF School of Medicine logo with the backdrop of San Francisco

Medical school consists of the first two years spent in a more academic setting that includes training in the basic sciences. The last two years is when students begin clinical rotations. During the final year of medical school, it will be time to apply for residency programs in my desired specialty.

Fig. 11: Medical students during their residency

Once I have completed my residency in internal medicine, specializing in eating disorders, and am licensed, it will be time to practice and treat patients independently.

Fig. 12: The Pacific Palisades in California (backdrop), fan of money (bottom left), and a physician (mid-right)

To be an internist–those practicing internal medicine–specializing in eating disorders will be both rewarding and difficult. Internists are the ones who will work with patients on their medical complications because of the disorder and are often the first ones to see the signs of it.

Fig. 13: Depiction of a consultation between a patient and internist

These physicians often work in a team with a psychologist, psychiatrist, and dietitian. Collaborating together, a patient will receive individualized and specialized care to help them on their journey of recovery from the illness.

Fig. 14: Example of a treatment team

On the subject of earnings, true to stereotype, an internist makes a considerable amount of money. In Los Angeles, an internist on average makes approximately $229,827.

Fig. 15: A physician securing his earnings

An internist can take up practice in a hospital, group outpatient, or private practice setting. I would like to work in a group outpatient or large clinic setting.

Fig. 16: Hershey Briarcrest Outpatient clinic

In any setting, a physician is expected to dress professionally. Though in some settings, they are expected to wear a white coat that is typically embroidered with their name, position, and the emblem of the clinic or hospital–if applicable.

Fig. 17: Examples of physician dress code

An internist can find a position throughout the United States. In particular, I envision myself working in Los Angeles and taking up residence in the Pacific Palisades, which is closer to the ocean and out of the bustling city.

Fig. 18: Pacific Palisades, CA

However, if I did choose to leave the U.S., I could find a position in other places, too. Like with many others in health care professions, physicians are needed throughout the world.

Fig. 19: American Airlines airbus

I have the goal of being a physician who can truly help patients and make a difference in their lives. It will be incredibly rewarding to help those suffering from an eating disorder to gain back their lives and freedom. Recovery is a difficult process with many ups and downs, and I would be honored to be a part of someone’s journey to healing.

Fig. 20: Woman jumping for joy

 

Works Cited

About the MCAT Exam. AAMC, 2017, https://students-residents.aamc.org/applying-medical-school/taking-mcat-exam/about-mcat-exam/. Accessed 29 July 2017.

D’Arrigo, Terri. “Searching for Signs of Eating Disorders.” Eating Disorders, ACP Internist, Feb. 2013. https://acpinternist.org/archives/2013/02/eating.htm. Accessed 29 July 2017.

Eating Disorder Statistics. National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, 2017, http://www.anad.org/get-information/about-eating-disorders/eating-disorders-statistics/. Accessed 29 July 2017.

“Salary: Internists.” Glassdoor, Glassdoor, Inc., 2017, https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/los-angeles-internist-salary-SRCH_IL.0,11_IM508_KO12,21.htm. Accessed 29 July 2017.

What to Expect in Medical School. AAMC, 2017, https://students-residents.aamc.org/choosing-medical-career/article/what-expect-medical-school/. Accessed 29 July 2017.

Becoming a Lawyer: Matthew Cicco

Since my sophomore year of high school I have been interested In pursuing a career in law, and my goal now is to become a lawyer when I complete my college studies. It started with an interest in debating and arguing especially among my siblings, and now it is my goal to be a lawyer.

Figure 1: My High School emblem.

Holy Cross is where I attended high school and where my desire to become a lawyer began. The courses taken at Holy Cross helped me better understand what I wanted to do with my life down the road.

Figure 2: American Government class.

My sophomore year of high school is when I took my first government class and instantly enjoyed it. It was then that I first had the idea of possibly pursuing political science in college. This class helped me decide how I would apply to colleges regarding my major.

Figure 3: High school graduation.

graduating from high school is when I took my first steps to beginning my own long path to law school. The excitement of graduation kept me from thinking about the immense amount of work in my way of becoming a lawyer.

Figure 4: Attending the University of Scranton.

I decided to enroll in the University of Scranton as a History and Political Science major. Although my end goal would be to become a lawyer, I knew that if my thought ever changed, the University would give me every opportunity to pursue whatever future I saw for myself.

Figure 5: A portrayal of me studying.

I know that to take the next step in my career it will require much studying and library hours. To be accepted into a prestigious law school it takes a very good GPA, and it is one of the most important aspects a college would pay attention to along with community involvement and internships. Qualify for law school I would also have to graduate from the University of Scranton with a MBA in my chosen major.

Figure 6: College graduation.

The next major step would be to complete my four years at the University of Scranton and to graduate with my degree. With my college graduation comes the opportunity attend a law school, along with the accomplishment of obtaining a degree and finishing a college education. But I know that I would need some sort of gap before attending law school.

Figure 7: LSAT exam:

Before applying to law schools it is very important to score well on the LSAT exam along with having a strong GPA. This test is a requirement of law school, and not only passing this is exam, but doing well is imperative to being accepted into law school.

 

 

Figure 8: Law School Application

With completing my first four years, now would come the process of applying to the law schools I would like to attend. this arduous task is almost a replay of the painful task of applying to a college as a junior and senior in high school. There are many schools I would like to apply to but there are two that I would really like to attend.

Figures 9 and 10: my dream law schools.

Both schools are very prestigious as a whole but especially in their law programs. Georgetown is located in Washington D.C. and Fordham is located in New York City. If I were to get accepted into either I would be beyond excited, but I would favor going to Fordham more so because I have always wanted to move into New York City and it is not as far away as Georgetown.

Figure 11: Portrayal of working.

Before actually attending any law school I would like work during a gap year as a way to raise money and also to gain experience before moving on to  college for three more years. I plan on working as a court clerk or office clerk here in Scranton. by doing so I would gain experience in working in law before actually going away to eventually gain my Juris Doctor degree.

Figure 12: Receiving my Juris Doctor

The goal of my three years in law school is ultimately receiving my Juris Doctor which is the goal of all students attending law school. This degree is only received after completing all three years of law school. This degree is a preparation to go on and take a state Bar Exam.

 

Figure 13: Taking a Bar Exam:

This is the culmination of 7 years of studying for a law student. To be able to practice law in any state it is required that an individual must pass that states Bar Exam. Without passing It, one cannot practice law in that state. each individual state has their own exam and an individual must have completed it to practice within the state.

Figure 14: Returning to Pennsylvania.

After receiving my Juris Doctor, I would like to return to my home state of Pennsylvania to practice law. This would require passing Pennsylvania’s Bar exam and also finding a law office to practice at. although it my not e easy I would hope that I would find an office to join due to having many relatives and family friends who have worked as a lawyer in Pennsylvania at one point.

Figure 15: Working in Philadelphia

Upon returning to Pennsylvania I would definitely jump on any office job that is offered to me, I would eventually like to move to Philadelphia and practice within the city. Philadelphia is such a large city that it presents many more opportunities and I have always wanted to move into the city since I was younger.

Figure 16: Salary

Based off a 2015 study, experienced lawyers make about $115,820 annually, but that is also dependent on where one is practicing and how much experience he has. As an example, in Scranton the average income is about $42,000 a year. Early in my career I would not worry so much about salary but more so on gaining experience and doing well enough that I may benefit later on.

Businessman Pointing and I want you isolated

Figures 17 And 18: Lawyer outfit.

As a lawyer I would have stop dressing like a college bum and begin to look professional everyday. The typical outfit for a lawyer is normally a suit. I would have to get used to wearing that almost everyday as a substitute for that would still be a sports coat with dress pants. no more sorts and a T-Shirt to class.

Figure 19: The life I used to know.

With wearing a suit everyday for work, comes the end of the schooling for me. becoming a lawyer would be the end of almost 20 years of preparation for the career I now have.

 

Account Executive; Pete Leva

To be quite honest, I really couldn’t tell you how my life will play out. There are multiple things I’ve wanted to do since I was a little kid and I still plan on doing most of these things. I understand that I only have one chance to live on this planet. So I plan on making the most of my life and accomplishing a ton of awesome things.

Figure 1 : My Future Home

As of right now, I plan on pursuing multiple careers throughout my lifetime. The first thing that needs to be accomplished before I get after these careers, is perhaps the most important thing that has to be done. Earning a degree from the University of Scranton. My goal in life is to retire on an island somewhere with multiple happy kids and a lifetimes worth of entertaining stories. The University of Scranton will provide me a solid foundation to do so.

Figure 2 : The University Of Scranton

As of right now, I still haven’t decided on a major. However, I am leaning towards Business Administration with a minor in Political Science. This will help me obtain a position in my fathers company, Multi Packaging Solutions (MPS). As well as set me up with a background in American Government, allowing me to run for future government positions.

Figure 3 : Brennan Hall at The University Of Scranton

Once I obtain my degree, I will begin my career as an officer in the U.S Navy. I will attend O.C.S (Officer Candidate School) in Rhode Island. I will commission as the rank Ensign, and branch aviation.

Figure 4 : Officer Training Command In Newport R.I

After graduating and contracting with the Navy, I will be shipped down to Pensacola, Florida where I will begin my civilian flight training. After 25 hours of flight experience and thumbs up from my instructors, I will begin training at Naval Air Station (NAS) Whiting Field, in Florida, or NAS Corpus Christi, in Texas.

       

Figure 5 : (top image) NAS Whiting Field, Florida ; (bottom image) NAS Corpus Christi, Texas

While training at one of these two bases. I will become an expert in the sky behind the stick of a Beechcraft T-6B Texan, a trainer aircraft. I will log over 100 hours and know the inside and out of these machines. After this I will be assigned and specialize to another jet aircraft, and begin my career traveling the world as an active duty aviator.

Figure 6 : A Beechcraft T-6B Texan

I am hoping to be assigned to an F/18 Super Hornet. One of the fastest and baddest fighter planes on the planet. They are capable of speeds exceeding the sound barrier and are the Navy’s prized fighter jets.

Figure 7 : An F-18 preparing for take off

After spending 4-6 years of service in the U.S Navy, I plan on using my personal connections such as my father to land a high paying civilian job. My father has spent over 25 years climbing his way to the top of his company. I plan on doing the same. Companies will look at me and see a disciplined, motivated individual and this will help make the transition into the civilian world much smoother.

Figure 8 : My fathers company

While working for my father’s company, or a similar one in the same field, I plan on working my way up starting as an account executive and eventually achieving the position of a senior account executive. This will put me in control of multi-million dollar accounts with customers. My dads company deals with packaging, so I will control accounts with companies such as Colgate, and Aleve. I will be in charge of making agreements to produce packaging for their companies products earning me well above 100,000 in salary and commission.

Figure 9 : An executive office suite

The money that I will earn as an executive at my job and the money that will be given to me monthly from the Military will be invested in funds and accounts that will generate me even more money in the long run.

Figure 10 : Stacking up the Benjamin’s

After making enough money and climbing my way to the top of my companies ladder, I will have enough money to step away from my position and still collect a pension. As well as earn extra money from the Navy. After having experience leading people in the military and in the civilian world, my next move will be to get elected and start up my political career.

Figure 11 : Podium ready to brief the public

Generally, politicians possess degrees in Law or Political Science from Universities small and large. Earning a minor in Political Science from the University of Scranton will give me a boost and ensure my people that I am right for the job.

Figure 12 : New Jersey State Capital building, Trenton NJ

Hopefully, I can obtain a position in my district as a New Jersey House Representative or even better, A New Jersey Senator. Both positions require you to be at least 25 years of age, a U.S Citizen for the previous 7 years, and a resident of the state you are seeking to be elected in. I will meet these requirements with ease, for they are all that are required.

Figure 13 : United States Capitol, Washington D.C

Even if I don’t get elected to Congress, I will still aim to hold a government position in the local government. Whether it be mayor of my town, or even something smaller like a town councilman, I will be okay with it. Its always been a dream of mine to be apart of American Politics.

Figure 14 : Town Council Building, Wayne NJ

Hopefully, one day I will achieve a position in Congress . If I do, I will hopefully have won New Jersey’s 11th district. The 11th district is historically a very republican district, thanks to gerrymandering – the process of creating districts beneficial to a specific parties success – this is how it has been for over a decade. If the 11th District is too far out of reach, I will attempt to be elected as the representative for New Jersey’s 2nd District, in which I’ve also spent years of my life.

Figure 16 : (Top Image) New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District ; (Bottom Image) New Jersey’s 2nd Congressional District

Eventually, I won’t have enough energy to continue running for re-election after re-election. So it will finally be time for me to retire. I plan on buying property on an island somewhere. Whether it stand in the Caribbean or the Pacific, as long as it’s by the ocean I will be happy.

Figure 16 : The Gate of my future beachfront property

With a lifetime’s worth of stories to tell, I plan on writing a book on my adventurous life. My story will be fill of my favorite memories from High School, my adventures in the Navy, and my long career in the world of Politics and Business.

Figure 17 : Wayne Valley High School, My alma mater

With all of these stories to tell, a book just wouldn’t do my life much justice. So what better way to tell my stories than to open a bar in the tropical paradise that I will be living in.

Figure 18 : Reggae Beach Bar in St. Kitts, an idea of what my future bar will look like

In the end, Im sure I will be happy no matter what I accomplish as long as I am accompanied by my family and friends. For they are the ones who make life as good as it is.

Figure 19 : (Top image) My friends ; (Bottom Image) My family 

Life is not about the money you make, or your social status. Its about what you make of it. I plan on making the most of mine so that I can die a happy man.

Figure 20 : U.S Navy 21 Gun Salute, a tradition at service member’s funerals

Works Cited

“Officer Candidate School.” Officer Training Command, Home of Navy OCS – Officer Candidate School. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2017. <http://www.ocs.navy.mil/ocs.html&gt;.

“New Jersey.” GovTrack.us. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2017. <https://www.govtrack.us/congress/members/NJ&gt;.

LinkedIn. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-leva-8a62077&gt;.

Boundless. “Eligibility of Congressmen – Boundless Open Textbook.” Boundless. Boundless, 26 May 2016. Web. 27 Mar. 2017. <https://www.boundless.com/political-science/textbooks/boundless-political-science-textbook/congress-11/congressional-elections-81/eligibility-of-congressmen-445-4245/&gt;.

Salary.com, Site Built By:. “Account Executive Salaries.” Account Executive Salaries by Education, Experience, Location and More – Salary.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 27 Mar. 2017. <http://www1.salary.com/Account-Executive-Salaries.html&gt;

 

CIA Clandestine Services; Gunnar Bash

Fig. 1: Hank Hill discovering Neutral Milk Hotel

When I was young, I never really had a solid job that I knew I wanted. Starting in third grade I played guitar, listened to music and just assumed I’d make money playing the guitar in the future. I could still do that, but it’s not really realistic or steady for income.

Fig. 2: Many flags of the world

I decided upon international relations as major since I have a deep interest in history, cultures and governance. I also would like a minor in German since government agencies like duel fluency or more, and I am almost proficient at German.

Fig. 3: Me contemplating how to stand out to the CIA

 

 

The CIA is a very interesting and beneficial agency to work for,because it offers international jobs and provides several health benefits and so on. However, it is very selective and you must have a clean record, along with the many tests you must take before joining. In short, it is no easy feat.

Fig. 4: CIA HQ in Langley

If I were to be accepted, I’d like to work in Langley where the main HQ for the CIA is situated.

Fig. 5: Graduation

However, before that I must get at least a bachelor’s to even be considered. I may go beyond that in the future since teaching also interests me.

Fig.6: Actually studying for tests

A big crutch of mine is procrastination, and the CIA requires AT LEAST a 3.0, which is the bare minimum. I will need to excel at academics to make it into the CIA. Obviously, the CIA doesn’t want a slacker with high level security clearance.

Fig. 7: CIA recruits

Even being considered is a huge accomplishment. However, only about 17 percent of candidates pass the exams and background checks. Only the best of the best can make it, and that is my goal; to exceed in almost everything I do. Easier said than done however.

Fig. 8: Strength

The CIA has many physical exams, and physical strength is a must. Especially in the Clandestine Services department and being a field agent, you must be very fit.

Fig. 9: Mental strength and integrity

You must also have strong wits and intelligence to be an agent. The CIA only wants the best and brightest to defend our country from attacks. Telling a single lie to the CIA, no matter what, automatically disqualifies you since you cannot be trusted. This is why the clean record is a must. Lucky for me, I don’t really like doing illegal things

Fig. 10: CIA employees

Once I do get accepted, because mark my words I will; I will likely have to travel to Langley Mon-Fri. CIA employees are expected to normally wear suits and have visible ID at all times in the facility.

Fig. 11: CIA agents 

The CIA has a broad range of occupations, such as cyber security, homeland security, foreign relations and many others. The department I am most interested in is Clandestine Services. That would be under The Directorate of Operations (DO) in the CIA.

Fig. 12 Service badge

The DO is very elite and hard to get into. Their mission is to obtain intelligence from across the globe for the military or president to act upon. The CIA will even act upon it in some cases as well. Agents are often deployed around the world for however long the mission will take.

Fig. 13: Salary

A typical Operations Officer will make $91,855 annually. 

Fig 14. America

The CIA has offices all around the US, so eventually I wouldn’t mind moving to New England.

Fig. 15: Journalist

I’ve always been fond of writing, so I may be an author or part-time journalist on the side for a small news paper or magazine. This would be purely as a hobby though.

Fig. 16: Ambassador

Once I get enough political connections while an agent, I would like to be appointed an ambassador of the US to really any country. International affairs is my passion and I would like to help any country I can.

Fig. 17 Doctorate

Afterwards, I may pursue my doctorate in int’l relations and become a professor or teacher. I may teach English overseas as soon as I graduate and get my doctorate.

Fig. 18: Clueless

I have many routes to take after graduation, so it really is whatever falls into place first and what is most convenient.

Fig. 19: Fish sticks guy

Life is unpredictable. I find the phrase “whatever happens, happens” a good motto to follow, or even older “que sera, sera.” I sometimes have the urge to drop out and just be a fisherman in New England, but obviously I won’t do that, yet. I’ll be content with having any job, as long as I enjoy it. I won’t do a job that wastes my time or I dislike. Life is far too short for that.

Fig. 20: Nixon thumbs up

It’s rather hard to predict what I will be in the future, but I know what I would like to be, and that is assisting my country in the government in some form. Specifically, the CIA is ideal. However, I would be happy doing any of the other occupations I discussed. I’ll do whatever life throws at me

Works Cited

“Clandestine Service.” Central Intelligence Agency. Central Intelligence Agency, 03 Aug. 2016. Web. 26 Mar. 2017.

“CIA Salaries.” Glassdoor. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Mar. 2017.

Greenawald, Erin. “Work Like a Spy: Career Advice From a CIA Operative.” Free Career Advice. N.p., 11 Mar. 2013. Web. 26 Mar. 2017.

Marketing and Advertising by:Megan Cookson

Fig 1: Footprints

To me, my aunt Joanie has always had the coolest job. Ever since I was a kid I wanted to follow in her footsteps.

                                                                   Fig 2: New York City 

My Aunt is Vice President of Ad sales Integrated Marketing at Freeform(formerly known as ABC Family) in New York City.

   Fig 3: Man taking a vacation from work

Fig 4: A keep calm and love free stuff sign

Fig 5: Morpheus from the movie The Matrix

         There are a lot of perks that come with the job she has, which is what drew me at first.

        Fig 6: The Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World Orlando Florida

She always got free Disney Tickets, since Freeform is owned by Disney.This meant that I was always at Disney world which I loved.

                                                   Fig 7: People ice skating at Rockefeller Center 

ABC Family would celebrate its 25 days of Christmas by throwing a huge party at Rockefeller Center in New York City.

Fig 8: ABC Family’s 25 days of Christmas poster           Fig 9: 25 Days of Christmas logo printed on the rockefeller rink   

Fig 10: The cast of Pretty Little Liars getting their picture taken at the party. 

At this huge event, I was able to meet the stars of my favorite ABC Family television shows as well as iceskate with them.

                                   Fig 11: Ridge High School in Basking Ridge New Jersey

When I started High School, I started to think about careers. I started to become very courious about Marketing and Advertising, and what it actually was.

  Fig 12: Willy Wonka

I then was able to get a one week internship at Freeform, and started to learn all about the job.

         Fig 13: Workers in a meeting 

My aunt spends most of her time in meetings overseeing the advertising and promotion plans her coworkers came up with.

Fig 14: Keyboard with social media sites as the keys

During the Internship I spent a lot of time on social media, seeing which television shows had social media accounts so freeform could see where they should post their ads.

Fig 15: Friends at lunch looking at their phones 

Most of the ads people see nowadays are online or on social media sites, since thats were poeple are spending most of their time.

             Fig 16: Kids using IPhones

Growing up in the age of technology, I know I would be very good at this job becuase I know all the different social media sites and how they function.

Fig 17: Students throwing their caps at graduation 

I eventually graduated from High School with a career in mind, and a goal I wanted to achieve.

 
Fig 18,19,and 20: University of Scranton green, the Scranton logo, and the University of Scranton Gate

I then decided that I was going to achieve my goal at the University of Scranton in Scranton Pennsylvania.

Fig 21: Bachelor’s degree 

I would need to graduate with at least a Bachelor’s degree if I wanted to have a career in advertising and Marketing .

Fig 22: Students graduating from the University of Scranton 

I then would graduate from the University of Scranton after four years of being in the Kania School of Management.

 Fig 23: A graduation cap with MBA written underneath it 

If I wanted to reach for a higher position in a company It would be a good idea to go to business school and get an MBA.

                               Fig 24: U-Haul mvoing box and a I heart New York mug 

For as long as I can remember my plan was to get a job and then move into an apartment in New York City.

 Fig 25: Freeform logo

Hopefully I would be able to work with my aunt at freeform, but I would be happy to work any place were I would be doing what I love.

Works Cited

Cunningham, Joe. “Marketing vs. Advertising vs. Sales.” Cowley, Cowley, 21 Nov. 2013, http://www.cowleyweb.com/blog/marketing-vs-advertising-vs-sales. Accessed 26 Mar. 2017.

Lake, Laura. “Key Differences Between Marketing and Advertising.” The Balance, The Balance, 25 July 2016, http://www.thebalance.com/marketing-vs-advertising-what-s-the-difference-2294825. Accessed 26 Mar. 2017.

“Marketing Degrees & Careers | How to Work in Marketing.” How to Become, Learn How to  Become , 2017, http://www.learnhowtobecome.org/finance-business-careers/marketing/. Accessed 24 Mar. 2017.

McNamara, Carter. “Basic Definitions: Advertising, Marketing, Promotion, Public Relations and Publicity, and Sales.” Free Management Library, Niles River, managementhelp.org/marketing/advertising/defined.htm. Accessed 26 Mar. 2017.

Writer, Leaf Group. “The Role of Advertising in Media.” Chron.com, Chron.com, 20 Sept. 2011, smallbusiness.chron.com/role-advertising-media-24611.html. Accessed 24 Mar. 2017.

 

A Story of Daniel Scheffer’s Journey into Choosing his Career

 

Fig. 1 A mother speaks to her child

Beginning at a young age my parents had started      prodding me to think about what I wanted to do when I grew up.

And for a long time, I was pretty certain on what I wanted to be.

Fig. 2 Andrew McCutchen giving a curtain call (top); a cartoon of a young boy dressed as a    king (bottom left); a photograph of Bob Dylan playing his guitar (bottom right).

Yes, I was definitely going to be a professional athlete, or a rock star, or the king of some country. Probably a combination of all three.

Fig. 3 Me playing videogames and man posing as my father

But, time went on. I got older and the question started being asked more frequently.

Fig. 4 Photo of me and man posing as my father

It actually got to the point to where it started getting annoying.

Fig. 5 A photo of me contemplating my situation

But then I started to think more about it, and I realized that if I am ever going to become a man able to provide for myself and a family, then this is pretty important.

So, it started, the beginning of my journey to deciding what I would actually do with my life.

                                           Fig. 6 The campus of the University of Scranton.

After high school I chose to come to Scranton for several different reasons. One factor was the hope that Scranton could help me find my interests.

 

Fig. 7 A stress toy of a man with entangled limbs

During my time at Scranton I have been thinking hard about what I would study, and what career I would eventually pursue. After immense stress, frustration, and anxiety, I believe I have chosen my field of study.

Fig. 8 An electrical engineer student at Gonzaga University stands in front of a circuit board.

The major I have chosen to pursue is electrical engineering, a major offered here at Scranton.

                                                                          Fig. 9 A pie chart

This decision was influenced by several factors. Each of varying importance and relevance.

Fig 10. A man stands with emptied pockets

 

Fig 11. A cartoon of a man getting a loan from the bank

First, and most importantly, is that Scranton is an expensive private school and I need to make sure this investment pays off.

Fig. 12 A paycheck

The average yearly salary of an electrical engineer is $95,230. I am not concerned with being rich though.

                                                    Fig. 13 A family in a group photo

What I really care about is hopefully someday having a large family, and children need to eat.

Fig. 14 A scene from the film, Alice in Wonderland

Another reason I had chosen electrical engineering as a major is that it seems much narrower as in the direction it will take me. This is good for me, as opposed to a history or English major that I might not know where to go with after my education.

                               Fig. 15 An electrical engineer works with a circuit

The typical duties of one with an electrical engineering major in the typical field of employment would include making necessary mathematical calculations as well as overseeing and co-operating on projects to ensure necessary requirements are met.

Fig. 16 A chalk board containing calculus problems

Math is a very important skill for electrical engineering, of course, as well as knowledge of electricity and circuits.

Fig. 17 A man sits at a desk

There is no on the job training and though experience is attractive to employers it is not required. Electrical engineers will typically work in offices though are at times required to visit construction or manufacturing sites.

Fig. 18 A cartoon drawing

 

Professions as an electrical engineer do not require graduate school. That is good because I have no intentions of going to graduate school.

Fig. 19 A mannequin modeling a business casual attire

The dress code for electrical engineers is typically business casual.

Fig. 20 Students from Kalamazoo College celebrate their graduation

It will not be easy, but hopefully through hard work combined with the resources provided by Scranton, I can find a successful career in electrical engineering.

Works Cited

Bureau of Labor Statistics, “U.S. Department of Labor”. Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition, Electrical and Electronics Engineers, December 2015, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/electrical-and-electronics-engineers.htm

Dreier, Peter. “The Political Bob Dylan”. The Huffington Post, Huffington Post.com, May 25, 2016, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/peter-dreier/the-political-bob-dylan_b_10134862.html

“Electrical Engineering, Bs”. University of Scranton Catalog, 2013, http://catalog.scranton.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=34&poid=6056

Riestma, Jennifer. “Kalamazoo College graduates urged to serve their communities”. MLive, 2017,http://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2010/06/kalamazoo_college_graduates_ur.html

“University of Scranton Merit Page”. University of Sccranton, Merit Pages, 2017, http://scranton.meritpages.com/

 

 

 

 

Journalism and Electronic Media by Eric Eiden

Fig. 1 Confused man

I still struggle to find with what I want to do when I graduate, but journalism and electronic media is as close as I can get to finding an answer.

Fig. 2 Writing a book

I always like to write to write, so this major is where I thought I would put those skills.

Fig. 3 Woman being interviewed by a journalist

I liked writing about myself and my views. I found out I liked writing about others even more, so I applied that to my major.

Fig. 4 St. Thomas Hall

I found my major from going to the advising center in St. Thomas Hall.

Fig. 5 Money

Money never really mattered to me with what I wanted to do with my future but the average a journalist makes is about $43,000.

Fig. 6 Newspaper

I’m taking a news writing class now and even though the work load is heavy, it is a step forward in a career as a journalist.

Fig. 7 Center of attention

Even though I consider myself somewhat introverted, journalism requires me to become a bit extroverted and talk to many people.

Fig. 8 Map of U.S.

With journalism I can work local or anywhere across the U.S.

Fig. 9 Map of Arizona

Ideally I would like to work anywhere, but specifically I would love to work in Arizona.

Fig. 10 Press hat

I want to evolve my writing with journalism to write for the press and for broadcast. Which requires the use of AP style.

Fig. 11 Press and broadcast

Other than the journalism track in journalism and electronic media, the broadcast track is also offered.

Fig. 12 Switcher

There are many options with the broadcast track for journalism and electronic media, such as radio and television.

Fig. 13 University of Scranton television

I prefer television because the classes offered here have really piqued my interests.

Fig. 14 Camera, soundboard, switcher and clapperboard.

I’ve worked with a camera, soundboard, switcher and as a director in the TV studio on campus.

Fig. 15 Director

If anything I would like to be a director and direct my own movies.

Fig. 16 Money as director

The median a film director makes is around $68,000 a year.

Fig. 17 Stressed man and rewarded man

Directing can be extremely stressful but also extremely rewarding when the show comes together.

Fig. 18 Steven Spielberg working with his crew

I will have to work diligently with my cast and crew to be a successful director.

Fig. 19 Spiderman Homecoming

If I had a preference to which movies I would like to directing it would be action movies or superhero movies.

Fig. 20 Guillermo Del Toro

I would want to work with many crews before becoming a director to get as much experience as possible. I think I really found something as close as possible to my calling when I graduate with journalism and electronic media.

Works Cited: Works Cited photo essay

 

 

To Write or Not to Write:

By Kathryn O’Brien

As a young girl it was a very common occurrence to find me nose deep in books.

Figure 1: Young Girl reading

I loved to spend hours in the library reading.

Figure 2: A school library

I was deeply in love with the stories of J.K. Rowling and J.R.R. Tolkien.

Figure 3: J.R.R. Tolkien Figure 4- J.K. Rowling

But when it came to thinking about what I wanted to be in the future I was very indecisive.

Figure 5-7: A fashion designer, chef and pilot

But in middle school it all changed. I began doing creative writing in my middle school english classes. And it was so exciting because I could be like the writers that I idolized as a child.

Figure 8: Kids raising hands in a classroom

Getting to have the creative outlet of writing was absolutely liberating. I started writing both inside and outside of school. So in high school I realized that I wanted to go into a career of being a writer.

Figure 9: A man using a type writer

Once I realized what I was going to do for a living I began researching what major would help me get into a very writing oriented major. Soon enough I realized I would go into Journalism because it would lead to me writing fairly frequently. After I figured out that it was only a matter of time before I found a school that fit me just right. And that school was, The University of Scranton.

Figure 11: University of Scranton Archway

Though I am still only a freshman I plan on doing an internship when I am an upperclassmen in order to get the experience and truly see what it is like to work as a journalist.

Skills Needed:

Being a Journalist is certainly not easy in the slightest, more often then not a Journalist is put under strict deadlines for the stories they are assigned. So one of the key skills needed to work as a Journalist is time management and organization.

Figure 12: A clock turning

Other skills include being a well rounded individual, have good researching skills then of course have strong oral and written communication skills.

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Figure 13 & 14: A woman conducting research and a man preforming an interview

Training Needed:

Most newspapers require that Journalists have a degree from college where you either majored in Journalism or a related field i.e. Communications. Then afterwards complete a year of job training.

Figure 15: A woman holding a degree

Earnings:

Being a journalist isn’t the most lucrative job, the average annual salary of an entry-level journalist is $36,000. But how much a writer does earn all depends on the organization they work for and their level of experience.

Figure 16: Grunkle Stan from Gravity Falls running with a cash register

Working Conditions:

Being a journalist is a fast pace job, it requires a person to be ready for anything and everything; these journalists have to deal with very tight deadlines too. They will spend days traveling or simply working in the newsroom. Being a Journalist is not a static occupation, because a Journalist deals with news they have to deal with an ever changing world and adapt to it.

Figure 17: A calendar showing an upcoming deadline

What workers do on the job:

Working as a Journalist does not necessarily mean you will be confined to a cubicle for 10 hour work days. Sure there are days when you will be stuck typing away at a computer nonstop in order to meet a deadline…

Figure 18: Bruce Almighty typing at a computer

But being a journalist also requires traveling frequently in order to interview people and cover stories, locally or otherwise.

Figure 19: Zach Galifianakis driving while giving a thumbs up

Sometime Journalist may spend very long periods of time on the road in order to cover a constantly evolving piece or going to various events. Some of the more frequent places that Journalist tend to visit are: Courthouses, Entertainment Venues or Sporting Arenas.

House of Blues Music Hall during performance of Heart

Figure 20-23: A courtroom, music venue and soccer stadium

Dress Code:

Journalist need to be able to adapt quickly and smoothly if they are going to survive the fast pace lifestyle of news reporting. While in the newsroom reporters tend to wear business casual clothes, nothing overly dressy and nothing too casual. Usually a button up, tie and slacks for men. For the women a nice blouse and dress pants or skirt.

Figure 24: A digram of business casual clothes

While business casual was acceptable for the newsroom, a Journalist cannot always rely on that for every occasion. They need to be ready for any weather or event that may occur.

Figure 25: A reporter in a storm with people dancing behind them

Work Cited

“#dresslikeajourno How to dress like a journalist.” NewsCastic. N.p., 6 Mar. 2014. Web. 19 Mar. 2017. <https://www.newscastic.com/news/wardrobe-in-the-newsroom-1459694/&gt;.

“Journalist.” Career Center. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Mar. 2017. <http://www.careercentre.dtwd.wa.gov.au/Occupations/Pages/journalist.aspx&gt;.

“Journalist Salary.” Journalist Salary. N.p., n.d. Web. 20 Mar. 2017. <http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Journalist/Salary&gt;.

Nudelman, Richard Feloni and Mike. “How to dress like a leader in any work environment.” Business Insider. Business Insider, 05 Aug. 2014. Web. 20 Mar. 2017. <http://www.businessinsider.com/how-to-dress-for-work-business-attire-2014-8&gt;.

Images via Google

Connor Byrne. Software Engineer

Figure 1: Early first semester

When I first arrived at the University of Scranton, I was a biology pre-med student. Within the first few months I started to realize how little I actually enjoyed biology. The courses I was taking consumed a lot of time and effort and it just wasn’t rewarding. This lead me onto thinking about other majors.

Figure 2: How I felt first semester

This photo shows my feelings after realizing how strongly against continuing biology I was. It also shows my state of confusion over what major and area I wanted to study in. I then came up with possible fields of study and brought it to my advisor. We then created a new schedule for this semester with a bunch of different fields.

Figure 3: Pictures of possible career choices

I picked my classes specifically in order to take the intro courses for each possible major that I was considering. When picking those majors I narrowed it down into Health Administration, Computer Science / Software Engineering, Physics. Out of those classes, computer science has been my favorite and I decided on switching my major to software engineering.

Figure 4: Software Engineering

I choose software engineering because I was very interested in writing programs and it was incredibly rewarding. There are so many different things that can be done within this field I was very intrigued. Plus, I was very interested in most of the science and math courses required to take for this major anyways.

Figure 5: Learning all different programs

After going on the software engineer route, the next step is to learn all different types of programs. Throughout the course of the next four years I would be learning four or more software programs from Java to C,C++ to Python and many more.

Figure 6: Next step, Graduate School

I plan at staying here all four years and graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Software Engineering. After, I then plan on either staying a fifth year or attending another graduate school and getting my masters degree.

Figure 7: The vast possible fields in software engineering

After graduating and getting a masters degree there are hundreds of differents fields in which software engineers can work such as medical electronic systems, automotive mechanical systems and manufacturing computers.

Figure 8: Represents job outlook for the future of software engineering

The National Association of Colleges and Employers predicts that the hiring outlook for software engineers is continuing to grow and improve. This year employers that participated in the survey characterized the job market for the decade to be very good or excellent. These jobs are expected to gain in numbers and grow rapidly.

Figure 9: Shows most people’s view on software engineers

One of the most popular fields software engineers go into is app development. Many people believe that the only thing software engineers do is create websites or apps. There are so many different fields and jobs for software engineers.

Figure 10: Shows a typical scene at google headquarters

Google is one of the biggest employers of software engineers in the entire world. At google software engineers work very collaboratively as programmers on projects and also have the time to work on their own individual projects. Google is also known for having some of the most intelligent and also the laziest programmers.

Figure 11: Shows what a software engineers job could look like at the CIA.

Another example of a different job in the same field is working for a government agency such as the CIA. The CIA recruits many software engineers to work for the government and deal with serious issues such as cyber security. Many engineers end up becoming agents and working undercover.

Figure 12: Financial Engineer

A financial engineer is another example of a job in the software engineering field. Software engineers throughout learning programs must become efficient at manipulating data. These skills transfer to Wall Street and software engineers are often hired as financial engineers.

Figure 13: Skills required

There are many different skills necessary to be a software engineer. The most important skill is being proficient in programming languages. It is also highly important to have a strong background and understanding in calculus, physics and engineering.

Figure 14: Working collaboratively

One of the other most important skills necessary for becoming a software engineer is the ability to work in a team. At most companies engineers work collaboratively on giant programs. The ability to communicate between coworkers is highly important.

Figure 15: Salary Details

The U.S. News & World Report ranked software engineering as the #2 best job in technology. The labor department reports a median salary of $102,160 in 2015. Job growth is expected to continue to grow exponentially.

Figure 16: Shows cities with engineering jobs available

It was reported that the highest paid jobs in software engineering work in the metropolitan areas of California and Hawaii. As an individual who loves to surf and be by the water, I would not be opposed to moving to these areas for a well paying job.

Figure 17: Education questioned

Software Engineering is a field in which a college degree is prefered but most certainly not required. Many of the most successful software engineers today are self-taught app developers that become millionaires from creating of a popular app. Many companies will recognize an individual’s ability to code through projects and actually hire many people with no degree.

Figure 18: What do software engineers wear?

The attire that software engineers are typically required to wear all depends on what type of software engineer you are, and who you work for. For example, a self-employed app developer can work in pajamas from their bed while a cyber security software engineer for the CIA is more than likely going to wear a suit.

Figure 19: Within the Software Engineering field

Within the software engineering field itself there is a lot of room for promotion. Above shows the levels of which an individual can climb throughout their careers. I aspire to one day become a project manager or create my own bussiness in engineering.

Figure 20: Satisfaction

Of most importance to me is being satisfied. I feel very strongly that within the software engineering field I will be very satisfied and feel rewarded for doing my line of work. I believe that being able to complete a product and work collaboratively with others gives a fulfilling and enriching career in which I want to pursue.

Figure 21:

I have no clue as to where a career in software engineering is going to take me or when we will get there. All I know is if I work hard and continue to pursue this career I am going to be successful and live a happy life.

Work Cited:

Cobol, Warren E. “Job Outlook for: Computer Software Engineers.” Job Outlook Career Planner, Careerplanner.com, job-outlook.careerplanner.com/Computer-Software-Engineers.cfm.

Benedictus, Leo. “Number Cruncher.” The Guardian , www.theguardian.com/money/2008/nov/15/working-life-software-engineer.

“Careers: Software Engineer.” Central Intelligence Agency, www.cia.gov/careers/opportunities/support-professional/software-engineer.html.

“Best Jobs: Software Developer.” U.S. News and World Report, U.S. News & World Report L.P., money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/software-developer.

Boukamp, Katie. “How to become a software developer.” Coding Dojo Blog, study.com/articles/Become_a_Computer_Software_Engineer_Education_and_Career_Roadmap.html.