School of Social Sciences and International Studies

Connect

Latest Alumni 'Five Questions With' featuring Lt. Col. John W. McCance

Alumni Spotlight

Our featured alum is 1982 Communication graduate Lt. Col. John W. McCance. We asked him asked a few questions to gain insight for our Communication majors:

1. What advice would you give a freshman majoring in Communication?

Embrace every opportunity to learn about communication channels, processes, and careers.  Take advantage of on-campus opportunities such as WWSU, The Guardian, or on or off campus co-op positions.  Look as your college experience as a “career” one that will help you build your resume and provide you with experience that you can call upon after graduation.

2. How would you recommend Communication to a student who is undecided?

Being a communication professional exposes you to the inner most workings of most any organization and puts you in a position to become a “go to” resource for the leadership.  Unlike many other entry level career choices, you will find yourself supporting and/or providing counsel to senior leaders whose decisions directly impact the public image and bottom line. 

3. How did majoring in Communication play a role in what your career?

Every day.  Whether flying airplanes, holding press conferences, or supporting business or government officials, not a day has gone by when I haven’t called upon something I either learned in the classroom or part of my campus experience that helped in my decision making process. On the same day as my graduation I was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force as part of the first AFROTC Class of WSU.  That led me to being able to be part of the operational Air Force for the first 7 years of my professional career.

4. What are some of your greatest accomplishments?

First: Being a father to two bright and very successful daughters.  Professionally, I’ve flown airplanes, provided counsel to the first man to walk on the Moon, met current and former Presidents, supported peace negotiations, and traveled to some 22 countries around the World.  “If” I had to pick one thing professionally to date it would be being the Deputy Chief of the Air Force Senate Liaison office.  That said, there’s more to come!

5. What advice would you give a graduating senior coming out into the world?

Not every HR person or employer understands or appreciates the flexibility that a graduate with a Communication degree brings to the table.  It is important that your resume’ reflects that flexibility and demonstrates that you have had a well-rounded education and college career.

 


Take the Next Step

Finding the right college means finding the right fit. See all that the College of Liberal Arts has to offer by visiting campus.