Writing was her passion when she was at Bridgeport High School.  Writing was her passion when she graduated in 2013 and started High Point University in High Point, North Carolina.  Since then, that passion has earned her an invitation to speak at the University of South Florida’s English Graduate Student Association Fall Colloquium Competitive Conference.  It has allowed her to be awarded the prestigious George Barthalmus Undergraduate Research Grant and provided her the opportunity to present at the State of North Carolina Undergraduate Research and Creativity Symposium.

 

Now that passion has led to a whole new chapter in her professional life.  Last summer, McKinley volunteered for ArtsGreenboro, who put on the 2016 National Folk Festival.  Her articles were published in “Carolina Peacemaker” and were among her favorite writing assignments to date. 

 

Most recently, McKinley earned her a coveted internship at YES! Weekly, an alternative publication located in Greensboro,NC.  Majoring in English Literature, with a minor in communications, she particularly loved stories where she could feature minority outreach programs, community leaders and positive activism. 

 

“The internship was out of my comfort zone but allowed me to explore a career in feature writing, which I had never considered before,” said McKinley.  “Now I know that is the direction in which I would like to go.”

 

Throughout the internship, she gained real-world experience, including the importance of making deadlines, working under pressure and interviewing.  She also gained confidence in her writing ability as she learned about personal integrity, determination and resilience. 

 

“Many times, I felt overwhelmed, but the process taught me to focus on the big picture and strengthen my emotional intelligence.  It was very empowering,” McKinley said.

 

The internship was made possible through an internship stipend offered through Sigma Tau Delta.  The organization values young, passionate English majors and supports their endeavors by providing resources and tools to make them successful in area positions. 

 

“The support system I have experienced at HPU has been remarkable,” said McKinley.  “From professors who push us to expand our expectations to my mentors helping me with writing mechanics, the encouragement has been overwhelming.”

 

Last semester, McKinley took her talents across borders as she studied abroad at Charles University in Prague.  She studied Central European Literature during her time in the Czech Republic, strengthening her skill set and her curiosity for her next adventure.  She plans to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Georgia in the fall to complete a Masters of Fine Arts in Writing.