Monday, May 19, 2014

                       LSU Coach lends support to Sickle Cell Foundation

LSU Defensive Coordinator Coach John "Big Chief" Chavis is lending his name to a great cause.  Coach Chavis sponsored a golf tournament at the University Club on May 19. Proceeds will be donated to the Baton Rouge Sickle Cell Anemia Foundation.  On Sunday, May 18, Chavis hosted a kick-off party and silent auction at L'Auberge Casino Hotel.  I emceed the party which was attended by Sickle Cell Executive Director Lorri Burgess, Board President Darryl
Robertson, community leaders, and supporters.  I emceed the event for the second consecutive time.  I always enjoy supporting my friend Lorri.

Sunday, May 18, 2014

IBM Talent Manager risks life to find authentic self

As you know, I recently wrote a book, "Good Job" about following your dreams and pursuing your passion and not being afraid to take risks. Well, my friend Dima Ghawi, an IBM talent development  manager, is a perfect example of someone who has done just that. She risked her life to leave a pre-arranged marriage and customs to find her authentic self. It's a journey I encourage everyone to take for themselves. Check out her amazing story here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2nr62XUtlu0&list=PLsRNoUx8w3rMlIjGzSFEYeJUQENW2u50Q&index=16

Thursday, May 15, 2014

Customer Reviews of "Good Job"

When you write a book or create anything else, you never know how people will respond. You hope they see its worth like you do, but you never know. So I'm so thankful for your positive response.  Here are a couple of my first customer reviews. To purchase the book, go to amazon.com or michellemccalope.net.


Customer Reviews                          

By DIMA GHAWI Verified Purchase(What's this?) This review is from: "Good Job": A guide to getting the job and career you really want (Kindle Edition) I enjoyed reading "Good Job" by Michelle McCalope and following her amazing story. The book is filled with wise life lessons, risk taking, and encouragement. It is a great resource for everyone from college graduates to experienced professionals. So many people feel stuck at their jobs and are afraid to take a risk. "Good Job" will help them envision the career possibilities, tackle their fears, and invites them to a different way of thinking.

My favorite quote from this book is: “The great thing about life is it’s your life. You can change it whenever you like”.

I totally recommend "Good Job", it is an easy read and its lessons apply to everyone. "

By Amazon Customer Verified Purchase This Book will definitely give you the push and motivation you need to go forward and step into something greater!!!

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

Award-winning journalist writes book to encourage others to follow their dreams


I''m excited to announce my new book, “Good Job”:  A guide to getting the job and career you really want.” I want to inspire you to pursue a job or career you really enjoy, not just one that pays the bills.  After all, it's not a 'good job' if it's not a good job for you.  I've been blessed to pursue my passion of being a journalist for more than 15 years, working in nearly every facet of the industry. I've worked as a newspaper reporter, magazine writer and editor, public relations practitioner, television reporter and fill-in anchor, and now web producer.  I want to encourage others to follow their passion too.  In the book, I share the many lessons I've learned along the way that will help you in your journey.  For example, I know that fear is the number one reason people stay in dead-end jobs. But I've learned that you have to move forward in spite of the fear if you're ever going to realize your dreams.   I talk about this lesson as well as others including the importance of having the right attitude, conducting informational interviews, and sharing your dreams with others. The book is available at amazon.com or michellemccalope.net. I would love to hear your feedback and I appreciate your support.


Saturday, May 3, 2014

Jaguar Nation says goodbye to a legend 

Jaguar Nation said goodbye to one of its own today, the legendary Dr. Isaac Greggs who served as director of the Human Jukebox for more than 36 years. Band Director Lawrence Jackson said Dr. Greggs gave his "best years" to Southern, retiring at age 77.  It was a wonderful celebration of his life--the musician, the family man, the mentor, the teacher, and the friend. One of his sayings everyone repeated was "It's gonna be alright. You'll be alright by Wednesday." I have fond memories of Dr. Greggs when I was at Southern. He always greeted me with a warm smile and a hug and some of my best times on campus were enjoying the band. I interviewed him last year when he was inducted into the Louisiana Black History Hall of Fame.  My photographer and I laughed because he kept telling him to "take our picture."

We'll miss you Doc. Thank you for everything you did for Southern University. You will always be a part of Jaguar Nation.