Jennifer McCall Spotlight

English with a Literature Concentration (B.A.),
Graduated 2003

What are you doing now?

I’m an attorney.

How did you get your current job?

I opened my own firm in 2016 after working at other law firms.

On a typical day in your position, what do you do?

In a typical week, I am in court two-three days and in mediation one day a week. On the other days of the week, I spend my days in consultations and appointments with existing clients.

What advice would you give someone considering English studies?

If you're considering English studies, you'll need to love it. You will be spending much more time on school than a lot of your friends with other majors. You also want to really consider your end goals. Most of my English major friends went on to get graduate degrees.

If you were in a position to hire new graduates, what characteristics would you be looking for?

I’m looking for a positive attitude and an ability to handle stress.

How did the English major prepare you for your career?

I gained the important skills of being able to read quickly, to analyze deeply, and to write clearly. I also think that reading books helped me to be able to empathize with different people and their points of view.

Please name any specific course (or courses) that has been particularly helpful to your post-graduation life.

It's been so many years since I was in college that it is difficult to point to a specific course, but I still fondly remember my professors and their help in becoming a stronger writer.

Did you complete a minor? If so, what was it? If it has contributed to your career, please explain how.

I earned a history minor. History plays an important role in understanding the basis of many of our laws.