Why English?
A second major or minor in English can enhance your academic program by strengthening analytical and writing skills and providing valuable background in literature. It demonstrates to potential employers the range of your interests and expertise.
A survey of English Department graduates found that they are employed in a surprising range of careers, including public relations, law, banking, publishing, teaching, and business management. Almost all respondents felt that their training in English not only helped them get their jobs but also provided the background that enabled them to succeed in their positions.
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Do the WRITE Thing!
The Writing Program at Saint Peter’s College
Jersey City, New Jersey
Welcome to the Writing Program at Saint Peter’s College. You probably have a lot of questions...!
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Well, I’ll certainly be busy. How will I be assigned to my writing course? |
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Saint Peter’s College as an institution prides itself on the tradition of cura personalis ( personal care ), and the Writing Program is no different. You will be assigned to a class section best suited to your skill level as evidenced by your placement test essay. Most writing courses run for two semesters, covering argument, structure, mechanics, and research. Be assured that every effort is made to place you in a section that will help you grow as a writer and a thinker. Class size is small enough ( 18 or under ) to ensure that the needs of each student are met. |
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Okay! Sounds good to me, but if I have any more questions about the Writing Program, where do I go? |
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Once the semester starts, your professor will be happy to answer most questions. However, please note that the Writing Program at Saint Peter’s College maintains an open door policy year-round. Feel free to visit us at the English Department located on the 3rd floor of Loyola Hall. |
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I sure do! I’ve been writing essays since junior high. So, why am I required to take a writing course now that I’m in college? |
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A survey conducted by The American Management Association of 430 companies showed that job applicants lacked competent basic skills to do the jobs they seek. Further, it showed applicants lacked basic reading, writing and math skills despite adequate resumes. Ultimately, the survey revealed 34% of job seekers to be deficient.
A college-level writing course will help you find the depth of your ideas, the logic of their defense, and the most effective mode of presentation. Even if you are already a good writer, your writing course will help make your work better. A college-level writing course helps improve skills you need not only in college, but also in your career.
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What kind of skills? |
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Skills include:
- Clear yet varied expression
- In-depth research methods
- Systematic analysis
All these things are used not only in other college courses, but in executive level careers people aspire to after college. Your writing course will help you refine these techniques so you can:
improve your communication skills
become a more sophisticated thinker
prepare for your future career
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Sounds impressive -- but also scary! How can I ever possibly accomplish all that by myself? |
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You’re not expected to do it by yourself. Your college writing course is designed to be a writer’s workshop where you enter into a partnership with your professor, who acts as editor, research guide, and writing mentor. |
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Doesn’t the professor just assign essay topics based on things we’ve read and discussed in class and then correct the papers? |
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Far from it. Your professor is a writing professional willing to share expertise in the written word with students. While you undoubtedly will be assigned essay topics based on reading and discussion, your professor will also:
- explain various types of writing
- demonstrate how to create more effective essay components, such as opening and closing paragraphs
- explore nuance in language
- conduct exercises in brainstorming and style development
- guide you in your research and the shaping of your own ideas
- teach you the art and craft of true revision
- edit your work thoroughly
- conduct regular one to one conferences with you
- grade you fairly on the work you produce
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Wow! That’s a lot more than I thought! So, what will I be expected to do in this partnership? |
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Obviously, a writing course requires you to write, but to develop steadily in a the discipline of persuasive writing, you will be required to:
- write at least one full essay per week
- follow editing suggestions for true revision when re-writing
- attend conferences and C.A.L.L. sessions (if scheduled)
- come to each class prepared with course materials plus work due that day
- meet all deadlines for both writing and reading assignments
- participate in class discussion by asking questions and offering considered opinions
- participate in group work
- do all exercises in brainstorming, peer editing,and mechanics
- conduct research
- pass the course by completing assigned work satisfactorily and by passing the departmental Proficiency Exam.
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So, again, welcome to the Writing Program at Saint Peter’s College. We’re all here to help you do the WRITE thing!
Professor Constance G. Wagner , Director of the Writing Program
Phone: (201) 761-6323 email
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