Andrew Colletti

“I am interested in publishing and marketing. I think literature has been losing its hold as a form of media with the growth of video and film. I think that books need a new revolution, similar to what happened with audio books. Ultimately, I’m always looking for ways to change the world. I love to work with people, help people, and spread awareness of things I find important. Studying English has given me the opportunity to refine my communication skills and develop my love of articulating ideas.”

“My relationships with Carthage professors have been integral to my education. I’ve always looked towards my professors as mentors and leaders and sought out their advice. From some of my most ambitious and ridiculous ideas to my more tame ones, my professors have guided me in the way of wisdom and away from the fruitless endeavors that filled my freshman and sophomore mind.”

“My favorite class would have to be Intellectual Foundations. When I came to college, I had very little direction and a small grasp on my own individuality. This class gave me agency to explore different ways of thinking. My professor, David Duncan, encouraged me to challenge myself, making me grow in ways I never expected.”

“I am involved in Centrique Magazine and Poetry Underground.”

“The hardest classes I’ve taken were also the ones that pushed me to achieve the most.”

“My freshman year, I had the opportunity to travel abroad to Paris for a J-Term study tour, and it was a great experience that I will never forget. Professor Pascal Rollet introduced me and 14 other students to life in Paris and showed us French culture and history. He taught us how to be less like tourists and more like natives. I have always loved France and the idea of living in Paris, and this trip solidified my goal of living abroad.”

“My favorite memories are of meeting brilliant minds, whether its professors or students — I love people who are optimistic and have a clear love for the world around them. That kind of thinking is contagious and truly beautiful. They’re the kind of people who make you remember your childhood ambitions and remind you that anything is possible with enthusiasm and determination. In the words of Paulo Coelho from ‘The Pilgrimage’ — ‘The gateway to paradise lies in working with enthusiasm.’”

“My favorite spot on campus changes pretty frequently. Sometimes I love sitting in the basement of Hedberg Library or empty classrooms in Lentz Hall. I like the feeling of being in a classroom; it helps me put aside my thoughts of other things. I also like the Esports Arena; it’s a great space to sit and chill out.”

“I think my biggest surprise has been the realization that sometimes good things come when you least expect them. An example for me is when The Aspire Center held an author talk with Lindsey Pollak. I got to talk to her about books and pick her brain on some authors and ideas. Though I didn’t intend to, she helped me get an introduction to her connection at HarperCollins for a possible internship for the summer. Steve Jobs knew what he was talking about — you just have to follow your gut and pursue your interests without trying to figure out how the future will work out.”

“I think 8-year-old me would be ecstatic that I am studying English. I wrote my first (terrible) chapter of a book when I was 7, and I always wanted to be a writer since. While I am now continuing to pursue that dream, I am also exploring other career paths.”

“My original major was psychology. I always wanted to pursue English and my interest in writing, but I ignored that because of rumors I heard about English majors not getting jobs after college. However, I eventually changed my major to English. I realized I can’t know what it will come to, but I have to follow my heart. I love my English studies, and I believe they will continue to create opportunities for me after I graduate. My advice is to choose a major that deeply inspires you.”

“I chose Carthage because it was near home, and it seemed like a school I could see myself enjoying. I never felt a deep desire to travel for my education. I know this is a big part of some people’s college choice, but mine was based more on practicality and availability. I needed a school I could afford while also providing a great education. I think Carthage has exceeded my expectations.”