MA in English

Laura Chavez, 2023

 How did you choose your specific area of study?

I chose to study English because I always loved reading and writing when I was in school. When I got to high school, I build a special relationship with my English teachers, and it inspired not only to study it but also to teach it. My favorite classes were always the workshops or creative writing. 

How did your academic experiences in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences impact you?

My academic experiences in CHSS at Mason had a very high impact of me due to the variety and exposure to different types of literature. I was really moved by the different seminars I got the chance to take like global studies, Native American/ African literature, and even food writing. Mason offered a variety of special topics varying from poetry to early American and I was very engaged with the material. In the future, I would also like to expose my students to literature that is diverse.

Of which accomplishment(s) during your time at Mason are you most proud?

The accomplishment I have most proud of at Mason were always my end of term seminar papers. Each one taught me something different and I was especially fond of the papers I wrote in prose workshop and the food writing course as well. I am also extremely proud that I always did well on all my classes to the point that I am graduating Magna Cum Laude. It was difficult at times, especially while I was pregnant, so I am extra proud because of that.

Are there faculty or staff members who made a difference during your Mason career?

Some of the faculty members that made a difference during my college career are Dr. Sally Keith, Dr. Támara Harvey, and Dr. Anderson. Professor Keith was always very inspiring and kind to me. Dr. Harvey was such an intelligent woman whom I learned very much from, and Dr. Anderson was always very kind and helpful as well, especially while navigating any questions I had or every time I wanted advice on coursework to take. 

What advice would you give to an incoming cohort of graduate students?

My advice to the incoming cohort is to enjoy your time and really try to find ways of being engaged and connecting with the material. It can be tedious at times, but it goes by so fast and if you truly take your time with some of the topics, you will immense satisfaction/ enjoyable memories. 

What are your current career plans following graduation? What are your long-term career goals?

My current career plans following graduation is to finally go into what I've always dreamed of, which is to teach. I recently accepted a position at Harper Park Middle School in Loudoun County as a new English teacher and I couldn't be more excited and grateful. My long-term career goals are to continue teaching in Loudoun and eventually teach at the high school level. I would really like to teach the dual enrollment and AP classes. I would also really like the opportunity to teach some classes at a local community college.