Caroline Berman, a student of Kennesaw State’s Academy for Inclusive Learning and Social Growth, is receiving local attention for her first novel, “Flight.”
The science fiction novel places readers into the story of young man named Casper who works at a small gas station in New Jersey. One day, he is approached by a mysterious man who offers him an unusual opportunity — a large sum of money to catch several “cryptids,” animals whose existence cannot be proven.
Casper’s adventure leads him to cross paths with the Jersey Devil, who goes by Pine, and Bigfoot, who goes by Orion. “Flight” touches on real-life thematic elements such as alcoholism, abuse and the struggles of single parenting, according to Sydney Shirver, Berman’s mentor. The new novel has already received praise from the Atlanta Jewish Times.
Berman, a Virginia native, has worked on the novel extensively with KSU’s Writing Center where she also happens to work through her internship. Berman’s daily responsibilities at the Writing Center range from answering phones to checking in students and other various administrative responsibilities. She also produces social media content for the Writing Center and weekly postings for the “Write Place.”
“It has really become a part of my life,” Berman said.
Berman participates in Academy’s Academic, Social and Career Enrichment program, which results in a certificate of social growth as well as a career portfolio based on internships throughout the Academy program.
In the program, students audit college courses as well as career and life skills classes. In these courses, they prepare for life after college by emulating job searches and participating in interviews. The Academy also assists its students in securing employment on campus post-graduation.
Berman credits daily success throughout her days at school to Shirver. Whenever she is unsure, Berman looks to Shriver for advice, help or reassurance.
Berman and Shriver are preparing for this upcoming fall semester when Berman will begin to participate in the Advanced Leadership and Career Development program, which began in 2014 and results in a completion certificate conferred by the WellStar College of Health and Human Services.
Berman said that her future is “steady going,” and while she does not expect to be as big and famous as J.K. Rowling or J.R.R. Tolkien, she is already working hard on developing a storyline for her second novel, “A Story of Revenge.”
To learn more about the Academy, visit wellstarcollege.kennesaw.edu/academy/.
