Skye Rutherford
Skye Rutherford
Class Year
’18
Current home
Janesville, WI
Major(s)
English, Creative Writing
Current Position
English Teaching Assistant
Skye Rutherford ’18 believes that Carthage courses such as Intellectual Foundations and Hinduism sprouted her curiosity about other cultures, which is why it’s no surprise that she is now living and working abroad in Malaysia. Being a participant in the Fulbright program, Ms. Rutherford is an English teaching assistant for a secondary school. She says that being overseas and learning a new culture makes her career that much more exciting.
What have you enjoyed most about your career?
“Connecting with my students has been the most rewarding aspect of my work. Getting to create skits, songs, and choreography with them has been an absolute joy. I love seeing their confidence grow as we play games and engage with English interactively. Learning about Malaysian culture, trying new foods, and celebrating holidays with my community has made my career here so exciting.”
How did Carthage prepare you?
“My time as a Writing Center fellow and an embedded English tutor better equipped me to adapt to a myriad of learners’ needs. In addition, my experience in the Carthage Treble Choir and in theatre courses at Carthage gave me the musical and improvisational skills I needed to think on my toes and kickstart students’ creativity (or simply entertain them, if nothing else).”
How has your liberal arts education benefitted you?
“Taking courses like [Intellectual Foundations] and Hinduism opened my mind to the vast landscape of stories from other countries. Having the opportunity to study subjects outside my major increased my interest in going abroad and made culture shock less severe for my first time overseas.”
What Carthage professors played a part in your success and how?
“I never would’ve known the Fulbright program existed if it were not for Professor James Lochtefeld introducing me to it!”
What's your favorite Carthage memory?
“I was a part of the English Players and got to perform Shakespeare alongside English faculty and students. It warms my heart to this day. I loved getting to jump between roles and develop the characters in a low-stake environment. I feel the same about being a part of the Christmas Festival all four years. At Carthage, I always felt like I had a community that harnessed my passions while still encouraging me to strive for more.”
Tips for current Carthage students?
“Leave yourself open to opportunities. You may feel scared or that you are too busy, but attempting something new is always worth it. There will also be people at Carthage who will support you every step of the way.”