Case File: Allison Pottern

The following are excerpts taken from transcripts of a conversation with a Carnegie Mellon student.

Name: Allison Pottern Year: Sophmore Major/Minor: Creative Writing/ Film and French Hometown: Bethesda, MD Why Carnegie Mellon? When I visited Carnegie Mellon, I was impressed that the atmosphere on campus – there was a strong sense of community here. I also really liked the fact that the students were friendly, diverse, and strong in different academic areas. How did you choose your major? I came here specifically for the Creative Writing, Film and French programs. I couldn’t wait to start! Do you live on- or off-campus? I live off-campus in a Carnegie Mellon apartment so that I could live with my friends and have my own kitchen! What do you do for fun during the week, in addition to your homework? I love to hang out with friends, cook, and be part of both the Kiltie Band, and “cmuTV.”. What is your favorite class? Please describe. Advance Fiction Workshop is my favorite. There are 12 students in the class and we share and discuss writing in a fun/intimate environment. Are you planning to work on any research/internships? I have an internship with the University Press designing manuscripts and book covers. What are your plans after graduation? Not sure yet! What is your favorite thing to do in Pittsburgh (or favorite place off-campus)? The Strip (District) on Saturday mornings or Station Square at night! What is your favorite memory of Carnegie Mellon, so far? There are too many to count! Mostly they involve my freshman year. Are there any fun traditions that you want future Carnegie Mellon students to follow? The Fence and Spring Carnival If there was one thing you could tell a prospective student about Carnegie Mellon, what would it be? There are so many things to get involved in and so many great and wonderfully different students you just can’t go wrong here!