The Elizabethtown College Career Development Center recently hosted its second annual Creative Careers Week from Feb. 26 through 29, featuring engaging speakers who work in creative careers, including several alumni.

“This event is a great way for Etown students to explore career paths, learn what to expect in numerous creative careers, and make professional connections with employers and alumni,” Elizabethtown College Assistant Director of Career & Professional Skills and Development, Carolyn Rigo said. “Creative Careers Week is important for any of our students wanting to pursue a creative career such as writing, graphic design, or music.”

Speakers detailed their career journey and explained how their degree connects to their current work. They also provided advice on student career paths and discussed the ways their field of expertise was changing. Students had the chance to ask questions during the sessions and network with speakers. Two new sessions were added to this year’s slate of events, including sessions on freelance work and portfolio advice.

Careers in Graphic Design:

  • Jack Hulme — Creative Director, Gable
  • Kristyn Lapp — Graphic Design Team Lead, Clark Associates

Careers in Web Writing:

  • Carly Miller ’23 — Digital Marketing Specialist, TrackFive
  • Ashley Horst ’11 — Senior Editor, Social 5 

Careers in Professional Writing:

  • Rachel Grove Rohrbaug — Archivist, Elizabethtown College Archives
  • Phoebe Birch — Senior Content Writer, Webstraunt Store
  • Jesse Waters — Director, Elizabethtown College Bowers Writing House

What do Hiring Managers Look for in Portfolios: 

  • Wendy Sheaffer — Senior Director of Creative Services, Elizabethtown College
  • Kristen Phipps — Design Manager, The Restaurant Store Team

Careers in Music:

  • Kristyn Beeman — Music Therapist and Managing Partner, WB Music Therapy
  • Melanie Walborn ’11 — Music Therapist and Managing Partner, WB Music Therapy
  • Brad Eargle ’11 — Composer, Juniata County School District and Neon Monkey Music
  • Mike Cook Rymshaw ’16 — Community Development Specialist, Gretna Music

Creative Freelance Work:

  • Emma Pile ’21 — Freelance Photographer
  • Suzy Yorty ’00 — Freelance Graphic Design, Writing or Layout of Print