English Alumni Working in Service and Teaching

Jeannemarie Gribaudo '87

I graduated from Stonehill in 1987 with a degree in English and a minor in secondary education. I used that degree to teach English on the high school level for a couple of years. Then, I worked as a youth minister in an inner city parish. This job got me appointed as the Mayor's Youth Advisor. Eventually, I got appointed as a pastoral associate in the parish. From there, I was invited back to Stonehill to serve as assistant to the president for three years. After that, I studied at Weston Jesuit School of Theology for a Licentiate in Sacred Theology. Currently, I am back at Stonehill again working as the director of the catechetical project for the Mission Division. My advice to English majors: English as a major is a great foundational piece. The literary analysis and breadth of reading prepares one for a career in many fields. Also, as an English major, the writing component is invaluable. My experience in politics, Church ministry, and both the public and private sectors is that few people can read and write well. Being able to express oneself clearly and articulately is critical. It is this ability that opens up a myriad of fields and careers for English majors.