Allison Zink-McCormack

Sylvan Lake, MI

2012

English with a Creative Writing Minor

Norwich, England

Sales executive for Gale, Cengage, promoting digital resources and archives for universities and public libraries.

I have established a career in the publishing industry. My first job post-graduation was an internship in Chicago which led to a full-time sales role at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. After three years, I decided to pursue my MA in publishing and moved to London, England. Upon graduating, I worked as the sales manager for an independent trade publisher before returning of academic publishing a year later. I now reside in the lovely city of Norwich in the East of England with my husband and enjoy traveling in my free time.

equipped me with the skills needed to persevere in a relatively difficult job market and competitive industry. The liberal arts foundation allowed me to use my English degree in a business capacity and discover my interest in the sales sector. My well-rounded experience from Alma served as inspiration for my work promoting educational resources in the publishing industry. And the network of alumni and life-long friendships continue to be a support system for which I’ll always be thankful.  The work ethic encouraged at Alma gave me the discipline for independent study which guided me throughout my MA course. My English degree has given me the analytical and communication skills crucial to being a sales person, where relating to customers and understanding their needs are essential. My Alma experience connects me with a wonderful community of support and still impacts how I approach challenges in my career today. I am so thankful for the lessons I was able to learn while a student.

the Writing Center in the library and the Chapel.

my academic advisor Dr. Von Wallmenich and choir director Dr. Nichols – both of whom were so encouraging of my goals.

choir practice in the chapel, my study abroad year at University of Westminster, and my year living in the Phi Sigma Sigma house.