Topics in Literature
Topic: Careers and Decision Making in English
Class Information
Instructor: Qualls, Bethany
CRN: 53010
Time: TR 12:10-1:30
Location: 114 South Hall
Description
This class will help provide answers to the perennial question: "What can you do with an English major?" In particular, the focus will be on career exploration and decision-making. Using the design thinking process, characterized by curiosity, trial & error, and collaboration, students will have an opportunity to explore a variety of traditional and innovative career paths and think critically about this process. While developing their own career narrative, students will research the career paths and decision-making of others. Students will prototype and refine career tools including networking, writing for the job search, and interview skills. Additionally, students will take self-assessments, read a variety of materials about the workplace today, and write critical reflections. Using such techniques, this class aims to help students in English understand and articulate the application of their major to the world of work.
Key Learning Objectives:
- Explore career paths, jobs and organizations by connecting with employers and alumni
- Describe their skills, achievements, and career goals orally and in writing
- Apply design thinking and the mindsets of a designer to their career development
Grading
Weekly response posts (30%)
Career Portfolio - Job Posting(Part 1)/Resume (Part 2)/Cover Letter (Part 3) (15%)
Informational Interview (with an English major) (10%)
Odyssey Plans, Set 1 and 2 (10%)
Final exam (15%)
Participation (20%) - in-class participation, Pre/post class surveys, introduction video, completing assessments on time, mock interview, name of tentative individual students plan to interview for informational interview assignment (due in Canvas)
Texts
Educated, Tara Westover
The Poet X, Elizabeth Acevedo
-, pdfs and other materials provided via Canvas