“I’m trying something a little different this year …”
So begins "Mandatory Reporting" by Dr. Jenny Wilson O’Raghallaigh ’94 – in which an American student’s study-abroad opportunity turns into a spellbinding murder mystery.
Dr. O’Raghallaigh is quick to note that her debut novel isn’t autobiographical. But experiential learning was a big part of her journey from English major at Keuka College to clinical psychologist across the pond to award-winning author of psychological fiction.
“My final Field Period® was in mental health support, and that really showed me where I could make a difference.”
She earned her doctorate at Trinity College Dublin in 2000 and since then has practiced as a clinical psychologist and senior lecturer at one of Ireland’s top teaching hospitals. She has published widely in her field but only recently returned to her first love of creative writing.
“Finally, my two passions have come together,” she said.
"Mandatory Reporting" was published by Seventh Street Books in 2024 and was shortlisted for the Crime Writers’ Association’s Debut Dagger award.
Write Your Own Destiny
Find out more about Keuka College’s experiential learning opportunities – including our hallmark Field Period program, in which every student in every major designs and completes an internship or other real-world experience every dear.
