By Katy Morejon Portillo, PTW Program Intern
Recently, I had the honor of interviewing Nathaniel Barrett Walker (Nate), a recent graduate of George Mason University’s (GMU’s) Professional and Technical Writing (PTW) program. Nate’s journey is an inspiring story of academic and professional growth. After earning his undergraduate degree in 2022, he decided to pursue a master’s degree to broaden his career opportunities. Encouraged by his parents’ recommendation, Nate enrolled in the PTW program and he hasn’t looked back since.
Reflecting on his time in the program, Nate credits it with making him more marketable to employers. In fact, he shared that recruiters reached out to him on LinkedIn because of the work he completed at George Mason.
When Nate began the PTW program, his main objectives were clear: earn a master’s degree in a practical writing field and secure a writing-related job. Thanks to the program’s comprehensive curriculum and supportive community, he feels confident that he achieved both goals.
Speaking about the program’s impact, Nate noted, “It’s really like even more than a foundation. It’s like the building blocks for success in a career for this field.” Nate highlights several skills he gained through the program that he believes will serve him well in his career:
- Web design using HTML and CSS
- Document design
- Editing
- Proficiency in writing styles like Chicago and AP
- Expertise in rhetorical formats for impactful writing
Among the courses Nate took, the document design and editing classes stood out. He enjoyed the creative challenges of document design and appreciated the practical, career-oriented focus of editing.
One of the most rewarding experiences for Nate was completing his capstone project. While it was a challenge, the end result was worth the effort. His project explored the role of humor in building brand identities on social media, with examples ranging from Duolingo’s playful content to comedians like Matt Rife and Andrew Schultz.
Nate also valued the close-knit community within the PTW program. The small class sizes allowed him to form meaningful connections with his peers and professors. Many of the students attended multiple classes together, fostering camaraderie and collaboration. Looking ahead, Nate plans to maintain these relationships through platforms like LinkedIn.
For those considering the PTW program, Nate has a few words of wisdom: dive in and embrace the experience. While the program is demanding, it’s also incredibly rewarding. He also stresses the importance of documenting your work to create a strong portfolio—an invaluable asset for job applications.
Nate’s story is a testament to the power of education, mentorship, and hard work. His journey through the PTW program not only helped him achieve his goals but also opened doors to exciting professional opportunities. Congratulations to Nate on graduating from the PTW program and embarking on this next chapter of his career!
December 18, 2024