Elizabethtown College English Department

Thinking of going into the journalism field? At Elizabethtown College, students can explore their passion for journalism through classes like Introduction to Professional Writing, and writing for student-run newspaper, The Etownian.

Erica Dolson, English lecturer at the College, brings experience in journalism to the classroom and The Etownian.  As an adviser for the newspaper, Dolson works closely with students to ensure that the publication throughout the semester runs smoothly.

“Professor Dolson is the nicest person, and she’s always very helpful,” said Brianna Titi, sophomore communications major who is assistant editor for the features section at The Etownian. “Everybody enjoys working with her,” Titi said.

Titi joined the newspaper as a writer in her freshman year, and “loved seeing my writing in The Etownian.” She is an assistant editor now, but Titi hopes to become editor for the features section when she’s a junior.

The Etownian started in 1904 and continues to be a medium for students to express themselves and cover topics that strike a chord with fellow Blue Jays.

Dolson guides budding journalists

“It is hard to write about a topic chosen for you,” Dolson said about her work with The Sentinel, where she covered five school districts and wrote for religious and entertainment sections. “I didn’t really want to write about the booster club,” she said with a laugh, “So, I let my students choose their project.”

In Dolson’s class Introduction to Professional Writing, some of the students’ press releases are sent to national news organizations.  Dolson also guides students as they write their own opinion column and feature story to test out the journalism field. And she notes that other professors do the same.

“Elizabethtown College has great teachers who focus on writing and media for a well-rounded education,” she said. “There are lots of opportunities to see your name in print and see if the field is right for you.”

Why journalism could be the career for you

As Dolson brings her experience in journalism to the classroom, she is aware that the newspaper industry is slowing down, but new forms of online writing represent a growing field. “Journalism is evolving, but there is always going to be an outlet for it. There will always be a need for journalists to hold those in power accountable and tell the stories that need to be heard. That’s why we need young, bright, and educated people to be flexible with its [journalism’s] evolving nature.”

Author bio:

Ashley Reeb is part of the class of 2018, majoring in Business Administration and minoring in Graphic Design. Reeb has been Advertising Manager for The Etownian since 2016 and loved being apart of the newspaper in her college experience. Reeb knew she wanted to be apart of The Etownian staff since her freshman year and hopes to continue her involvement in the journalism industry when she graduates.