Why did you choose to attend UM?
There are several reasons why I chose UM! I knew I wanted to go to college out of state, but Oxford is still close enough to home that I can make the trip in a day. The University has a fantastic English and Classics department, which I knew I wanted to study. I also qualified for a great academic merit scholarship. Plus, I was able to room with one of my best friends from high school for the first two years!
When and how did you choose your major(s)/minor(s)?
I’ve known I would be an English major for as long as I can remember. I’ve always been an avid reader and writer. I’m interested in Greek and Roman mythology and history, so when I decided to take Latin to fulfill the Gen Ed language requirements, it just made sense to pursue a Classics minor. I’ve met so many students who are doing the English/Classics combo. It’s nice to see familiar faces in my classes.
What would you tell a high school student about your major?
There is obviously a lot of reading and writing, but the requirements for an English degree are very loose and customizable, so it’s easy to find classes where you’ll be interested in the assigned readings.
Why is your department a special place?
All of the English faculty are very passionate about their work, and they care about their students beyond just their education. Everyone in the department, both professors and students, has such a love and enthusiasm for literature. It makes connecting with and learning from each other easy and enjoyable.
Can you tell me about a professor or a class you've taken that has had the most impact on you?
My Introduction to Creative Writing class with Beth Ann Fennelly helped give me so much confidence in my writing. I realized I was more capable and skilled than I had allowed myself to believe. In addition to studying poetry and fiction, Beth Ann introduced us to creative nonfiction, a genre I quickly grew to love, but would never have given a chance if not for her.
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
After graduation, I am hoping to work in the publishing industry as a book editor. I’m still not sure what type of editing I want to do, but I’m thinking about developmental editing. I also want to write and publish my own works! I’m interested in writing fantasy, science fiction, and creative nonfiction. I’m also considering attending graduate school for creative writing after I finish my undergraduate degree.
Apart from school, how do you spend your time in Oxford?
I spend most of my free time with my friends. We all play dnd and have several campaigns going right now, including one that I’m running! We also do a board game night every one or two weeks. When I’m not with friends or doing homework, I’m either reading, watching TV, playing video games, or doing whatever activity/craft I’ve decided to pick up for a few weeks.
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you'd tell your past self?
It takes time to settle in and find your place! I felt very discouraged during my first semester because I hadn’t made many friends, and I wasn’t involved in a lot on campus. However, by the end of my second semester, I had found an amazing friend group. The longer I stay at UM, the more I feel like I belong.
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