Insight from an English Major

by Samantha Flaherty

A short five years ago, I was in your shoes. I was 18 years old, fresh out of high school, full of vitality and determination to make the most of things. I was also filled with emotion, worried about everything under the sun, but still eager, thrilled for what was to come. I remember talking to my Mom before I moved into college, telling her that I knew I wanted to experiment with as many aspects of writing and literature as I could. I wanted to explore storytelling in enlightening forms, discuss film arcs with my peers, and navigate creativity in ways that make a difference.

Within the first few weeks of living on campus, I was worried about finding groups to join. I was concerned that I would be huddled up in my dorm room most of the time versus experiencing “college life” - whatever I thought that meant at the time. I was bothered by the idea that I wouldn’t find anybody who shared the same interests as I did. I had even entered college not knowing a single soul, but I honestly wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Once the initial shock of being in a new place wore off, I began branching out, inserting myself into situations where friendships could blossom. I realized that navigating the timeline of college was something I had to explore for myself. Sometimes events would pop up just when I was searching for them, and plenty of other times I had to seek them out. I decided that I did not want to be static, despite fearing change. I was in the depths of the next big adventure of my life, and I was determined to make the most of it. After all, that’s what college is for, right? To explore new passions. I realized that this was where I was meant to be. To grow.

I am now in my fifth year of college at SSU, a graduate student in the 4+1 program where I will get my Master’s degree one year after my Bachelor’s. I’ve had four years to float around from group to group, to dip my toe into many ponds, and in doing so, I have discovered so many incredible opportunities, such as being a writer and editor for Red Skies, getting inducted into the English Honor Society, exploring my spirituality with the Pagan Awareness Club, and partaking in other various creative events. I’ve met fantastic individuals and other fellow creatives, some of whom have climbed this mountain alongside me. I was also given the opportunity to experiment with about four different minors as I tried to figure out exactly what subject I wanted to spend my time with. Eventually, I landed on Psychology, something I’ve always been passionate about.

Over these last few years, I’ve learned an incredible amount about myself. I’ve matured and evolved. I’ve graduated with a degree in English, Creative Writing! That’s a crazy accomplishment! Above all, I’ve discovered how passionately SSU holds space for one to be who they are, and how supported I felt on my journey. Because of the people I stumbled upon, because of those who stuck by me, I believe I succeeded in more ways than one, and am incredibly happy with how far I’ve come.

I’ve also learned that there is so much you can do with an English major besides becoming an author or a teacher. If that’s the route you want to take, more power to you! I support you! And I know there are plenty of professors and faculty on this campus that want to make that happen for you. Regardless of what you'd like your career to be once you graduate with a BA in English, SSU holds space for you. I believe with perseverance, dedication, and letting yourself explore, your authentic self will flourish, and you can achieve for yourself what I feel as though I have.

For a lasting note, if you’re looking for writing camaraderie and those who love what you love, I suggest checking out SSU’s Writers Group that meets every other Tuesday of every month from 7pm to 8pm in the Writing Center in the library. This group is open to everyone, whether you’re a writer already, want to bounce your ideas off others and receive feedback, or simply want to see what writing can be about, you’re welcome to join. Our next meeting is on November 9th. Hope to see you there!