By Caroline M. Cole The first recorded use of the word “mentor” appears in Homer’s epic tale The Odyssey, which focuses on the final days of Troy and Odysseus’ attempt to return to Ithaca after the war. Readers learn that … Continue reading
Category Archives: rapport
By Caroline M. Cole Signs were evident in mid-August. Subtle in some stores and on full display in others, Christmas decorations were making their appearance among the costumes, ghostly embellishments, and bags of candy meant to welcome trick-or-treaters—one of many … Continue reading
By Caroline M. Cole You’re working on a report that’s due by the end of the day and the phone rings; it’s a client you haven’t talked to for a while, wanting to discuss an idea for a new campaign. … Continue reading
By Caroline M. Cole In 1968, American visual artist and leading pop art figure Andy Warhol observed that “in the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes,” and the decades since have exploded with venues to make that possible. Television talk … Continue reading
By Caroline M. Cole Last week it was Rebecca Ann Sedwick, age 12, but there have been others: Erin Gallagher, 13. Bart Palosz, 15. Katie Webb, 12. Amanda Cummings, 15. Ryan Patrick Halligan, 13. Audrie Pott, 15. Phoebe Prince, 15. … Continue reading
By Caroline M. Cole Colleagues walking into a meeting mid-discussion. Classmates strolling into a lecture in progress. Patrons looking for a seat once the movie or performance has begun. Patients checking in after scheduled appointments. Guests showing up as others … Continue reading
By Caroline M. Cole A National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) discussion on LinkedIn asked members to list their “BIGGEST grammar pet peeve… the one you would seriously consider giving real years of your life just to get students … Continue reading
By Caroline M. Cole Those familiar with Jane Austen novels have inevitably read about the importance of an invitation. Whether to a private ball, a wedding, or an afternoon tea, invitations were a token of the sender’s esteem for their … Continue reading
By Caroline M. Cole It can be a commencement speech. Perhaps a greeting card sentiment or yearbook inscription. Maybe it’s a banquet toast. Possibly it’s an informal conversation in the kitchenette or around the photocopier at work. It can even … Continue reading