Versatility Guaranteed:
Stacy J. Guffey, Consultant
By Garrett Richardson
Importance of versatility
When looking at majoring in English at Western Carolina
University, it's important to keep in mind the versatility
of the degree. Mr. Stacy J. Guffey knows that better than
most.
The private life
Mr. Guffey has held positions in several different fields
since his graduation from Western Carolina University in 1999,
with a B.A. in English and a concentration in literature.
He worked as the e-Commerce Program coordinator for nearby
Southwestern Community College. In that position, Mr. Guffey
was in charge of hiring instructors, maintaining the program's
web site, and dealing with students on a regular basis.
Mr. Guffey has also served as the planning director for Macon
County. In this role, he supervised all building and expansion
in Macon County. He also sat on the Macon County planning
board and was directly involved with all matters that the
board considered. He served in this position for four years
until his resignation last September. Since then, he has started
his own consulting business.
Despite all the work involved with consulting, Guffey always
finds time for the things he cares most about. Between raising
his 13-year-old son James, learning foreign languages, and
traveling the world, Mr. Guffey manages to balance work with
fun in a special way.
Clear advice for students
When asked how his background in English helped to develop
his career, Mr. Guffey said, "My English degree helped
expand my understanding of the importance of writing and taught
me how to convey ideas effectively. I would say that 90 percent
of what I do is written. Clear, concise writing is critical."
His advice for students? Mr. Guffey stresses the important
of networking when it comes to careers. The more friends you
have, the better your shot at your goal.
So even if you are not sure of what you'd like to do for
your career in English, rest assured that the world is large,
and your degree is versatile.
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