What initially drew you to your humanities major and what topics are you excited about?

It started in middle school when I wrote a post-apocalyptic novel set in a world where water was limited and kids had to live in strict camps to survive. While that particular project never came to be, I always look back on it fondly to see how far I've come as a writer. Now, years later, my free time is still spent diving into fictional worlds where characters fight for what they believe in. As a Creative Writing major, I have developed my craft through in-class workshops, collaborating with other students, and simply taking the time to read, read, read!

Some of my favorite topics I've explored so far have been the mechanics and ethics of world-building in Science Fiction and Fantasy (ENGL 349) and gender inequality of women authors in Women Writers (ENGL 368).

How do you see your humanities education connecting to your future plans?

It is a goal of mine to be a published author, and my humanities education has greatly developed my creative writing skills. I find myself knowing how to read pieces critically and recognizing strong prose and plot devices. I have always been a big reader of all genres, but it's easier to recognize different writing styles now that I have taken classes that explore the critical side of humanities.

It's important to note that taking humanities courses not only improves your writing ability, but your overall ability to communicate. Writing an email and presenting information in a concise way are important skills to master, regardless of your career path.

What are one or two humanities courses you would recommend to other students and what did you enjoy or learn from them?

One course I took recently and greatly enjoyed was Introduction to Middle English Language (ENGL 376) with Colette Moore. I loved being able to explore an aspect of the English language I hadn't previously been exposed to. There were difficult moments, like when I had to memorize and perform a section of Chaucer's general prologue of The Canterbury Tales in the original language, but it's pretty cool that I now know how to read Middle English!

Tell us about an experience that has been meaningful to you.

This past spring, I had the amazing opportunity to participate in UW's Rome in Residence program. While there, I studied architecture, art history, and the anthropology of food (aka how to eat and cook like an Italian). Throughout the quarter, I found myself itching to write down every experience—every new food tried, museum visited, and story heard. It was incredibly to be a part of a city filled with buildings and monuments that were built thousands of years ago by human hands. Stories filled the streets, and I took advantage of every opportunity to learn more

Where on-campus is your favorite place to study, or unwind, and what makes it a good spot for you?

I love a specific line of desks in the back of Allen Library. The wall is made from enormous windows that spill natural light into the library. It makes it easy to focus!

What is one memorable experience you've had at UW and why is it significant for you?

One of my most memorable experiences at UW actually happened during my first week of freshman year. I'd seen a flyer for a Drop-in and Donuts event hosted by HAS, something I hadn't heard of, but figured I should learn more about. I showed up early and quickly realized I was the first one there. Still, I lingered, wanting to learn more about humanities at UW. That's where I connected with HAS' amazing advisors who helped me realize that I had the chance to make the next four years what I wanted them to be, even if it was scary at first (thank you, Arielle).

This moment is mostly significant to me because it proved that in order to achieve what I wanted at UW, I needed to take chances, even if I didn't know the outcome. My piece of advice for all incoming students is to not be afraid to check out cool events or programs on your own. This is your chance to step out of your comfort zone and try something new!

What advice would you give to new students considering a humanities major?

In a world where everyone and everything is prioritizing AI, it's easy to feel that genuine human creativity is being overlooked. I implore you to not let that discourage you. There will always be people who understand the importance of humanity in the arts. Don't be afraid to pursue humanities, you will learn so much about the world and yourself!