As a 2006 English and communication graduate of Cabrini College (not University, as much as the administration yearns for it to be labeled so), I am disgusted, annoyed and flat out upset about the decision to tear the English and communication department apart.
I would also like to say how I am ashamed at the way students will be deprived of experiencing as many classes with Pennsylvania Professor of the year, Dr. Jerome Zurek.
What this administration seems to not realize and not appreciate is that they have a man, one of the finest in the country, teaching and molding young minds at their very own institution, and they are going to hide him away in one department, when clearly he has proven that he is able and talented enough to handle both.
Take away Dr. Zurek’s blood, sweat and tears of the last 30 years, some way to treat one of the best in the country.
Since the current arrangement of the English and communication department has “undermined the intellectual character of our upper division English offerings,” according to Dr. Frechie, instead of dividing a department, maybe this institution can start being more selective in the students they accept to this college.
Oh, but I forgot, the administration is more concerned about turning this quaint, cozy little college into a University than demanding excellence from its students. Repeat after me: quality over quantity, an important life lesson I learned as an English and communication major.
Let me tell you a little something about my “real work experience,” since graduating last May. Dr. Guerra, please play close attention! On my very first job interview, I walked in with my professionalism and portfolio. I was able to present my work from the Loquitur, various English classes, convergence, internships and volunteer work. It was clear I had impressed the interviewer. I was told they would notify me in two weeks whether or not I got the position. They called me the very next day.
I have friends at large universities that were actually jealous of me because I was able to learn the craft, and apply it, with out being a double major.
Maybe this may not get through to administration of Cabrini College, but please remember when these English AND communication students are unleashed to the real world, they have something that most universities and colleges don’t: high-skill levels in two different, but related, areas of study.
I urge current and past students and faculty to speak up! Don’t let the rash decisions of this administration effect how you want to learn and how you want to teach!
