AP Style Issues

My entire life, I have been taught to use serial commas, which is the final comma in a series of words or phrases. AP Style, on the other hand, tells you to omit the serial comma unless the list is complicated or omission of the serial comma could cause confusion. AP Style also tells you not to use commas before the Jr. or Sr. or Roman numerals in names. It is going to be hard to break these habits, for I have been taught to do otherwise my entire life.

Assignment #7

It is no secret that females heavily dominate the field of public relations. Junior public relations major Sarah Cummings, at first glance, fits this stereotype to a “T”. It wasn’t until further research that her true strengths and assets were revealed. Not only is she a public relations major, Cummings is also majoring in mathematics at Marshall University.

Cummings began her first two years of college as a mathematical economics major at the University of Kentucky. While here, she joined the Delta Zeta sorority to branch out and experience Greek life. Though not for her, Cummings learned a lot from the experience and made countless friendships.

Unsure about her future, Cummings decided to transfer to Marshall University to pursue the field of public relations.  When asked about her transfer Cummings said, “I’m a people person, so I wanted to open up more options for my future.”

Although Cummings is undecided on where her future will go next, she has produced a broad pallet that will undoubtedly benefit her in the future. “My counselor at Marshall University told me that I was the only student she has ever had double major in math and public relations,” Cummings said.

Even more impressive, Cummings graduated high school with very high honors and various scholarships. Some of these scholarships include: Marine Corps Scholastic Excellence Award, Promise Scholar, 2011 MSAC Female Academic winner and 2011 Wendy’s Heisman winner.

Cummings not only exhibits diversity in academics, but many other important aspects as well. In high school, she was a tremendous athlete who won two state tennis championships. In her younger years, Cummings participated in a wide variety of sports such as basketball, soccer, baseball and track.

She has also expanded her knowledge by traveling numerous places. In 2007 and 2009, Cummings journeyed to Nicaragua to partake in two mission trips. Other places she has visited include: Canada, Greece and the Caribbean.

Born Sarah Elizabeth Cummings Jan. 13, 1993 in Huntington, West Virginia, she’s the youngest of 3 with two older brothers. Because of her brothers, she developed a strong personality and keen interest in sports. “Growing up with two older brothers has undoubtedly shaped who I am today,” Cummings continues, “Without them, I would be half the woman I am today.”

From the beginning, Cummings enjoyed being around and meeting new people. It was her comfort with others and outgoing demeanor that led her to public relations. “I realized after two years of being a math economics major that my strongest quality has always been communication,” said Cummings.

Cummings might be unsure of where she will end up in the future, but she is driven to succeed. When asked about her future, Cummings responded, “Whatever path I decide to take in my life, I will do it well and I will be happy.”