Why did you choose to attend UM?
Entering college either as a freshman or transfer student like me can be overwhelming; however, UM always surpassed every other University I contacted with their speedy and friendly responses to my questions-- giving me the confidence I needed that I would not be alone in the transition. UM faculty and staff consistently made me, as a prospective student, feel cared for, and the same is true as a current student. UM also offered outstanding financial aid and honored my achievements in high school and community college. As a child of 2 UM graduates, I am thankful that the University provides me with a special legacy scholarship to assist with out-of-state tuition so that my parents' home at UM can now be mine too.
Entering college either as a freshman or transfer student like me can be overwhelming; however, UM always surpassed every other University I contacted with their speedy and friendly responses to my questions-- giving me the confidence I needed that I would not be alone in the transition. UM faculty and staff consistently made me, as a prospective student, feel cared for, and the same is true as a current student. UM also offered outstanding financial aid and honored my achievements in high school and community college. As a child of 2 UM graduates, I am thankful that the University provides me with a special legacy scholarship to assist with out-of-state tuition so that my parents' home at UM can now be mine too.
What would you tell a high school student about your major? What is most important for them to know if they are interested in pursuing that field of study?
Writing and reading are major aspects of an English major, but you may be surprised to learn that you will also be challenged to think about the "why" behind everything. Being an English major has helped me slow down when reading any piece of writing and think deeply about the author's choices and how they impact me as a reader. Also, the versatility of my major is incredible. With this program, there are a multitude of opportunities for teaching, writing, publishing, and graduate school options. I like that an English major does not constrain you to one thing because it has many transferable skills like communication and analysis.
Writing and reading are major aspects of an English major, but you may be surprised to learn that you will also be challenged to think about the "why" behind everything. Being an English major has helped me slow down when reading any piece of writing and think deeply about the author's choices and how they impact me as a reader. Also, the versatility of my major is incredible. With this program, there are a multitude of opportunities for teaching, writing, publishing, and graduate school options. I like that an English major does not constrain you to one thing because it has many transferable skills like communication and analysis.
Why is your department a special place?
The English department has small classes that foster deep and challenging discussions. The professors are always excited about what they teach and inspire their students to also be passionate. There are also engaging events for the department, like trivia night on the square with students against professors-- not every department is this fun!
The English department has small classes that foster deep and challenging discussions. The professors are always excited about what they teach and inspire their students to also be passionate. There are also engaging events for the department, like trivia night on the square with students against professors-- not every department is this fun!
What class or professor has had the most impact on you?
The English department, being situated within the rich literary history of the South, provides a basis for unique classes. My favorite class has been New Orleans Literature because of the narrow scope we got to enjoy. I did not realize how the mix of cultures in New Orleans created a distinct literary footprint as authors conveyed the struggles and triumphs of a city navigating a blend of perspectives. My professor, Dr. Trefzer, gave lectures on the history of the city, which made the novels come to life for me and made me incredibly glad I was in a major that allows me to study people's stories from all different backgrounds.
The English department, being situated within the rich literary history of the South, provides a basis for unique classes. My favorite class has been New Orleans Literature because of the narrow scope we got to enjoy. I did not realize how the mix of cultures in New Orleans created a distinct literary footprint as authors conveyed the struggles and triumphs of a city navigating a blend of perspectives. My professor, Dr. Trefzer, gave lectures on the history of the city, which made the novels come to life for me and made me incredibly glad I was in a major that allows me to study people's stories from all different backgrounds.
What do you hope to do after graduation? What are your career goals/plans?
Since I love helping communities, I would like to be a writer for a non-profit Christian organization and tell stories of how people are changing lives around the globe. I would also like to teach English as a second language to Arabic speakers since I am learning Arabic at UM.
Since I love helping communities, I would like to be a writer for a non-profit Christian organization and tell stories of how people are changing lives around the globe. I would also like to teach English as a second language to Arabic speakers since I am learning Arabic at UM.
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you'd tell your past self (about the general college experience)?
Know from the start if you are more extroverted or introverted and how that will challenge and strengthen you. For example, be mindful that if you are extroverted, you may need to say "no" more often to activities. However, if you are introverted, you may need to say "yes" more often to activities. Strive for a balance so that you can enjoy academics and social events.
Know from the start if you are more extroverted or introverted and how that will challenge and strengthen you. For example, be mindful that if you are extroverted, you may need to say "no" more often to activities. However, if you are introverted, you may need to say "yes" more often to activities. Strive for a balance so that you can enjoy academics and social events.
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