G.O.A.T. Assignment : Edgar Allen Poe

Born in 1809 in Boston Massachusetts, Edgar Allen Poe is one of the most influential American writers of the 19th century. I consider him the "GOAT", for his prominent work in the areas of poems, short stories, and critical theories. Much of his work was inspired by experiences in his personal life. His major influences include Lord Byron, John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley. My blog highlights the importance of self expression and the uniqueness of an individual's craft. Through his literary work, Edgar Allen Poe undoubtedly set himself apart from other writers in the 19th century.

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Poe is often noted as the "Master of Macabre", for his exquisite delivery of disturbing, grotesque, and horrifying stories. He reinvented the horror genre by writing psychological sales that peaked the reader's interest while building suspense. Some of his most notable works are "The Raven", "The Tell Tale Heart" and "The Cask of Amantillado". He is also credited with fathering the modern detective story. In 1841, Poe would publish "The Murders in Rue Morgue". The story was met with great critical acclaim.

Just as structured as he was a writer, Edgar Allen Poe delivered the same as a critic. Poe mainly focused writing style on overall construction of a piece. He often placed emphasis on the demand of language and technique. Poe was also the editor of several magazines and Publications in his lifetime. Some are the New York Mirror, Burton's Gentleman Magazine, and the Southern Literary Messenger.

Care to learn a little more about the mysterious Edgar Allen Poe ? Enjoy a small clip provided by the Biography channel at the link below !
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x-387NMCR6w

Don't Be Out Link In !

In today's professional world, technology is high in demand. Who we are and what we represent can easily be accessed by a simple click. Several companies, institutions and workplaces have utilized "Linkedin" as a means of discovering potential employees.

Linkedin is social networking for professionals. Users are able to create a profile that highlights their experience, qualifications, and a profile picture. You can also meet and make connections with other business professionals as a way of promoting your personal brand.

With my Linkedinprofile I plan to  show my skills as a creative writer, musician, and journalist. I also plan to make connections with reporters, PR Managers, producers,  as well as other writers that share similar creative interests. Heres a link to my Linkedin profile : Athena Hamilton - Linkedin

The entertainment industry is more than just "who you know". It also revolves heavily around "who knows you". Using LinkedIn will allow me to efficiently market myself and brand in order to attract high level business and companies.

I viewed some Linkedin profiles of individuals I know and made some important observations. One profile was my teacher, Patrick Harwood. (  P. Harwoord Linkedin Profile  ) His profile clearly states his educational experiences, certifications, and career characteristics. His page also provides insight on organizations he is apart of and other posts of his leisure. A well structured profile is key to attracting businesses and executives.

Oldie but Goodie

For this University to be so DAMN OLD, I'm very surprised one of the oldest building is still standing in its original columns. After class last week, we took a mini adventure into Miller Hall-- a once operating residence hall named after the school's first President. 

Being exposed to the older buildings on our campus really shows how much history is left behind. Just by going through simple dorm records or fines, we learned that SC State's culture is much deeper than the surface. 

Miller Hall Photo - Harwood Communications

I've walked by Miller Hall for two years, and I didn't stop to think what the building was used for or how long its been unoccupied. Recently, renovations have been made to buildings on the campus but Miller Hall in particular has been left untouched. 

On "The Living New Deal" website, there are details that feature who designed Miller Hall, the year it's construction was completed, as well as who funded the project. Check it out here : Living New Deal - Miller Hall

While on our quest, we came across several unique findings. There was plenty of furniture, documents that identified older students, as well as yearbooks dating back 25 plus years! Despite the massive amounts of dust and thinning paint which restricted my respiratory functioning, I enjoyed the trip inside Miller Hall.

What Happened to Florence ?

  Over the course of last week my university closed in preparation for Hurricane Florence's landfall . The entire coastline of South Carolina was ordered to evacuate, just to have a week of sunshine and scattered thunderstorms. I agree it's better to be safe than sorry, however the precautions taken could be deemed a little too extreme.

My Hurricane experience encompassed lots of sleep and time spent on writing new content. I also went to my high school to assist the drum line with material for the current marching season. Even though it was a considerable waste of gas, I got to spend time with old friends and my family as well.

Even though Hurricane Florence did not do much damage to my location, other areas were not as fortunate. Many parts of coastal North Carolina was torn apart by the storm's 100 mile per hour winds and catastrophic flooding.

Here is a link to more aerial photos that show the damage that Hurricane Florence has done : Huff Post - Florence

As expected news teams were quickly on the scene detailing the effects from the storm. ABC News had a piece highlighting the 4,000 plus homes that were completely destroyed in the storm. Hurrican florence is estimated ti have created 1.8 billion dollars in damages.

3 Worded Summer

To describe my summer in 3 words, I would use change, dedication, and selfishness . These factors played a major role into the development of the strong minded individual I am today . Most of my summer break consisted of working . I set goals back in March that required a lot of money to achieve . Therefore, I consistently worked three jobs in order to make ends meet . 

I held part time positions as a cashier at a grocery store, a sales associate at a clothing store, and a full time position at a teacher at a summer camp. As heavy as this workload was, I was determined to make as much money as possible in one summer.  

With all work and no play I also spent a lot of time with myself. Self - reflection has made me more aware of my negative habits, and the best ways to change them. I learned what people and environments deserved my attention, and eliminated any relationships or factors that did not contribute to my well being .  Some methods I used to attain these heights of self awareness can be found on this website: https://www.developgoodhabits.com/what-is-self-awareness/ 

At the end of the summer I met my goals of buying my first car . It was very humbling and gave me a new sense of responsibility. Hard work and dedication truly does pay off.