An Alumni's Guide to the Wicked Dealings at Western Illinois University

To all those newly ordained Frosh of Western Illinois University, listen up, you've made a heck of a choice. As a grad from WIU, I've seen all the place has to offer. It has been my Mecca for the last four years and there is nothing I regret about the place.

Listed as one of the top Law Enforcement schools in the state, Western has a lot more to offer. I myself was an English major with a minor in both Creative Writing and History. If you are entering the same field, here's a tip, bust through all those essay 120 classes as quick as possible. They may be dull, but the're all the same, relatively easy, and typically a prerequisite for the provocative classes.

Any general text book can be found at the University book store, but they can also be found for cheap at Chapman's Bookstore, located just across the street from the Linc-Wash dormitories.

As far as teachers go, Dr. Alison is very intriguing with her vast background in contemporary and international literature. She will expand your knowledge base to include untraditional pieces of literature like The Life of Pi, Concrete Island, and Mr. Timothy.

If you're looking for a challenge and want to learn about the more traditional forms of literature, Dr. Colvin is your best bet. This man knows everything there is to know about Shakespeare and the Renaissance. Plus, he's rumored to be a good cook. Beware; there will be an exceptional amount of work to be down that can not be taken for granted. Stay on the ball and you'll do fine.

If it's a creative writing class that tickles your fancy, Tama Baldwin is the way to go. With an almost twisted sense of humor, she will tempt you and provoke you to create a breathing piece of art. I had her my first year for Intro to Creative Writing and Creative Nonfiction for my last year. Her non-apologetic attitude makes writers stand up and yell. We yelled at the top of our lungs for all the hatreds and love in life. She's the type of teacher who will have you quivering and weeping and begging for more. Tama also helped me win a cash award for a writing contest, so her methods can bring results.