What drew you to the major?

I thought I was a bad writer. I was determined to fix the imperfections of my prose, which led me to choose the English major. Within my first semester, I quickly learned, by some act of self-deception, I had tricked myself into believing I was a bad writer. Because of the support from the faculty and staff of the department early on in my time at CWRU, I realized then that writing was a viable path for me. My choice of the English major is renewed as I continue to study on the creative writing track.

How has your English major prepared you for life after graduation? 

I want to be a writer! Communication skills are essential in any profession; the English major provides the best foundation for whatever career I choose after graduation—whether it is just writing or another job on top of that. The department’s course offerings are varied, giving me the opportunity to become a well-rounded student and feel confident in my plans after graduation. I have taken poetry workshops and plan to take other creative writing classes in the future to help me build a cross-genre portfolio, preparing me for a career as a writer.

What is it like being an English major at Case in particular, with its perceived focus on the sciences?

While the academic culture at CWRU emphasizes the sciences, the humanities are still active and thriving. I feel like a rebel being an English major on campus. But this contrarian spirit is not isolating: it allows me to have a unique relationship with other English and humanities students, quickly becoming familiar because there are so few of us. I am close with what I would consider my family in the English Department and look forward to each opportunity where everyone can come together, especially during the weekly colloquium series. As an English major at CWRU, I have developed a strong, personal connection to my academic pursuits and feel a real sense of belonging among the tight-knit and supportive community.

Why would you encourage a prospective English major to sign on?

The English major is flexible and provides opportunities for growth. By taking courses aligned with your interests, like workshops or topical survey courses, you can carefully develop your critical thinking skills and writing. Each course I have taken thus far has challenged me to become a better writer and an ambitious thinker. And my growth as a student is furthered by  my relationships with peers and mentors within the English Department, profoundly shaping me personally and academically.

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