Alan Ohman

Major: Creative Writing
Class of 2010

Alan Ohman, a senior from Swanton, Ohio, has submerged himself in campus life over the last four years. He holds offices for a variety of organizations, including the College Democrats and the Mortar Board. He is also heavily involved in the University paper, The Northern Review, and the English honorary, Sigma Tau Delta. In spite of all of these activities, Alan still manages to find time to kick back and relax with his friends, whether watching his favorite TV show, Arrested Development, or good-natured debating the reviews of the latest blockbuster movie.

What would you like to do after graduation?
"After college I’d like to find a job in the publishing industry somewhere, especially in the copy-editing field. While I’m working and supporting myself and a family, I’d like to write novels on the side and get those published, and maybe someday I can support myself fully on the sales of those novels.”

What has been the favorite part of your Northern experience?
"Through the great English faculty, I’ve been introduced to many writers from many different time periods, and it has really shaped me as a writer. Without Dr. Pitts, for example, I would probably never have read David Foster Wallace, and if Dr. Scott hadn’t introduced me to Bret Easton Ellis’ work, my writing would be completely different. Also, Dr. Cullen’s screenwriting seminars have given me a new way to look at fiction writing, especially in stylistic choices."

If you could pass on one piece of advice to the upcoming class, what would it be?
"Take a variety of classes. Don’t just stick to your major; mixing the various concentrations can give you new insight into your own major or just on life in general.”