Jessica Simonetti '17
Attorney for the Child at The Legal Aid Society of Rochester
Jessica Simonetti set her sights on becoming a lawyer and an author. She attributes her achievement of these goals to her time at Fisher in the English program. “The legal writing and rhetoric courses enabled me to argue persuasively and effectively, keeping in mind the audience and the topic at issue,” she explained.
She considers her journey as an author to be a work in progress, and she appreciates the foundation she received at Fisher with support from the faculty who encouraged the growth of her writing skills. “The creative writing classes pushed the boundaries of my imagination and taught me the many platforms of creative writing.”
Simonetti sees Fisher as a strong foundation for a successful future. “The impact that the English Department had on me personally and professionally is boundless, and I am very grateful for every professor who contributed to this impact.”
Grace Valenti '24
English Major, Certificate in Public and Professional Writing
Growing up with a love for reading literature and poetry, English major Grace Valenti ’24 has always had a passion for her current studies. “I want to be a writer and I always have, so I’ve looked to Fisher to help me achieve that goal,” explained Valenti.
At Fisher, Valenti has been able to participate in internship opportunities, work study positions, and several courses related to her field of interest. Valenti has written grant proposals in her professional writing course, memoirs in her community-based writing course, and investigative articles in her science writing for the public course.
Valenti completed a public relations writing internship in the Office of Marketing and Communications at Fisher. She wrote press releases, feature articles, web content, and more for campus publications including Fisher News Highlights and Collegium, the University’s alumni magazine.
Working also as the administrative assistant to the English Department, Valenti credits much of her success to the faculty support system at Fisher. “I’ve always wanted to be a published writer, and my experiences at Fisher are helping make that a reality,” she said.
She is looking forward to building upon the foundation set through her Bachelor of Arts in English and her Certificate in Public and Professional Writing to pursue a career in public relations, grant writing, or editing and publishing.
John Au '12
Web & Email Communications Coordinator
John Au ’12 is using the writing and creative thinking skills he learned at Fisher to carve out a place in the digital communications field. He credits his degree in English for giving him an upper hand, especially the program’s emphasis on the value of writing and analysis. In his role at the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, he was able to achieve one of his ideal jobs. "I wanted a career that allowed me to be creative, yet work with technology—being involved in advocacy is a bonus."
He attributes his current position in web communications and strategy to his internship experiences while at Fisher. He describes his internship at Amnesty International as a “dream job,” that ultimately led to new skills, an expanded network of colleagues, and a job opportunity.
While Au’s job varies day to day, he spends part of his time coding, designing email campaigns, and improving the user experience on the foundation’s website. “Other days I can be writing, editing, or designing content—even assisting with live social media for concerts.”
Au advises new students to try courses and experiences outside of their initial area of study. “You might find something you like and are good at—it might even lead you to a future career that you wouldn't have imagined.”