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Student Portfolios

Adam Eshleman

Adam Eshleman

Major: Journalism/Print

Year: Senior

From an early age, I've possessed a strong artistic penchant. Through most of high school I was set on pursuing a career as a visual artist, but upon the recommendation of an English teacher, I decided writing would provide a slightly more viable career path. So here I am, about to graduate college with degrees in journalism and English. While I've set the paint brushes aside long ago, I still have a deep passion for art and music. I currently edit the art and entertainment section of Voices, a local monthly news magazine and I contribute concert reviews to JamBase.com, a leading online music resource. After graduation I intend to continue as an A and E writer.

My work with Voices has taught me more about writing than any classroom. I began contributing articles my junior year. Though a novice with fledgling abilities, I worked closely with editors to improve the technical aspect of my writing, as well the finer points of news-writing. After some hard work and marked improvement, I was offered an editorial position at the end of the year. As an editor, I found myself greatly improving through guiding and advising other contributors. I've also been putting a lot of effort into better understanding the art of the interview.

While I'd definitely say Voices has taught me most of what I know today, I'm continually refining my word craftsmanship through other endeavors like JamBase and my internship. For my internship I interview experts in the Penn State faculty to answer interesting scientific questions, such as "will historians one day study email?"

I am young and hungry to make a name for myself in this industry. While my writing isn't likely to be displayed in a museum, I nevertheless look at as artwork. As an artist, I realize the necessity of experience and apprenticeship. I also realize I have long way to go before my skills are developed to their full potential. I just hope you'll be willing to place another stepping stone on my path to the top.