My time as an English major has been transformative and filled with immeasurable growth. Throughout the past four years, I’ve learned so much about myself and the world around me. As a future high school English teacher, I am thankful that I was able to enroll in so many English classes that helped me develop my beliefs about the importance & power of literacy.
Though it may sound cliché, I would advise prospective English/Film students to do everything they can to believe in what they are doing and cherish every moment that they have with the department. Never in my life have I felt as comfortable/at home as I have working with the department of English and Film.
Being an English major at MSU has always felt like the right path for me. I declared my major prior in my initial application to MSU and have not looked back since. I have always felt a deep connection to the study of English and wanted to continue to deepen and grow my knowledge throughout my time in college.
MSU is blessed with some of the greatest professors in the world. I remember how excited I was meeting people who knew more about film than I did for the first time.
Read and write all the time, don’t let those skills lapse. Read the books assigned in class and find related readings, save relevant quotes for future use. Reading and writing both need to be practiced, make that time for yourself to hone those skills.
With my Film Studies major, I have the privilege of taking film theory courses that provide me with an eclectic knowledge and nuanced perspective of film. I also have a minor in Fiction Filmmaking, which allows me to thoroughly understand how the production and post-production stages of the filmmaking process work.
I have been challenged in more ways than I ever could have imagined, but I have also experienced so much growth, both intellectually, and personally.
Working with Professor Johnston for my Independent Study has been a great experience despite the challenges presented by virtual learning. We have worked together to begin the process of creating a short film, which I already feel very excited for.
I hope to continue writing about and reviewing films while also taking steps to become a cinematographer. I am currently in the process of applying for an 18-month production apprenticeship with BBC Scotland that will allow me to develop my camera, audio, and editing skills.
My time being a Film Studies student was worth every second. Even though the 8AM’s were slightly ruthless, especially if we were to watch a long Black and White old film, every film shown helped broaden and helped develop on what my style of filmmaking is today.