“Whether you’re a part of a beginner course in a specific discipline, or you’re jumping into a course with expected knowledge in it, both professors and students are kind and welcoming of different perspectives.”
Growing up going to the library often and having a passion for storytelling and creativity, an English major was the natural choice for Houston. He says, “I’ve been in love with storytelling, dissecting themes and major ideas from these great works, and then applying them to my everyday life to critically think about what I’m able to see out in the world”. Houston describes the English Department atmosphere as accepting and welcoming of all different perspectives. Through both reading materials and writing his own, Houston has felt freedom to express himself and focus on things that he is specifically passionate about. The faculty within the English Department have been a source of support for Houston, and have made him feel positive about his writing and ideas. He says, “There have been great experiences in every single English course I’ve taken, and the Professors help to make these classes wonderful”. His favorite professor within the English Department is Professor Rob Kendrick, who is someone that Houston feels he can go to for both academic and personal support. He values Professor Kendrick’s knowledge and wisdom and feels that he has received helpful advice from him. Through the English department, Houston feels prepared with skills both for future career opportunities, and also for personal creation projects. While his advisor has helped him lay out possible career paths, Houston’s time within the English department has also continued to develop his passion for literature and his own writing. Outside of the classroom, Houston is also involved on campus with the Gustavus Wind Orchestra as well as the theater program