Students to showcase projects at English in Action

Every semester, English students gather at Randall Library to display their hard work at the English in Action (EIA) showcase. Projects and papers are put on display to show the world that students can do something with an English major. This semester’s showcase will be Friday, April 27, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.

“I think EIA is a great opportunity for students to showcase work they are proud of,” said Ashley Sumerel, English professor and Sigma Tau Delta’s sponsor at UNCW. “It creates a sense of pride and the feeling that their research is valuable.”

Sigma Tau Delta just recently began working with Michelle Manning, the coordinator for the showcase, on EIA.

“We began working with EIA for the Fall 2010 showcase,” said Sumerel. “Members of Sigma Tau Delta are typically responsible for soliciting donations, helping on the day of the event and helping advertise for the event.”

Ryan Pietrzyk is the EIA liaison for Sigma Tau Delta. He has worked with Ms. Manning for the last two years and first started participating in the showcase while in one of Manning’s classes.

“It was a good experience in which I learned that English can be applied to everyday life and can be used in ways that the average person doesn’t think about,” said Pietrzyk.

Last semester, EIA had approximately 50 presentations at the event. Students and faculty were able to interact with one another for nearly two and a half hours while discussing projects and research.

“Some of the presentations there are from professors that are speaking about current work they are involved in,” said Pietrzyk. “I think this allows for students to learn all the ways English can be applied to the work world. English is often looked down upon … but the truth is English can be utilized in almost every aspect of the work place and it is highlighted in this event.”

Participants are automatically entered into the People’s Choice Award and Best in Show. Anonymous judges walk around and choose the winners, and winners are awarded prizes that have been donated by local businesses.