Shannon Elward
Assistant Director of Communications
Indiana Commission for Higher Education
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
One semester away from graduating, I decided to add a dual major in English because of my mentor, an English professor.
I applied, and was accepted to, my English master's program.
I applied to, and wasn't accepted to, highly competitive Ph.D. programs. I had to figure out a new plan.
Time for a career change. I applied for AmeriCorps and moved to Indianapolis.
Accepted a communications position.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Carroll High School
Carroll High School
Career
Assistant Director of Communications
I create and monitor content for publications and websites that promote college and career readiness.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Education
Writing
Being Creative
Day to Day
I spend a lot of time working at the computer--whether that's typing, designing or proof reading. I usually have at least one meeting a day, too. Sometimes I meet with outside vendors to talk about big publications, and sometimes our communications team will meet to collaborate and brainstorm on projects. On an average day, I write things like articles or e-mails to send out to students. I also do some basic design work and website editing.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for everyone
Start writing, and write often. Seek out opportunities to write for a paper, online, and write creatively. Being in communications you need to be a good writer, and a fast one too.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Society in General:
"When I decided to add a dual major in English and concentrate in creative writing and poetry I often heard things like: "What will you do with an English degree," and "Why don't you pick something more practical?""
Challenges I Overcame
First-Generation College Student
