“For me, it started with a single story: a brief, overwritten work of fantasy fan-fiction that I suspected was awful even while I wrote it, back in the sixth grade. Remarkably though, the teacher to whom I showed my first story was generous enough to humor me — she took the time to read it, and she actually encouraged me to write more. I followed her advice and continued to write creatively, independent of the classroom, but it wasn’t until I studied with the professors here at USC that I discovered the passion to pursue reading and writing as a true concentration.
At USC, I did my best to take full advantage of the wide breadth of opportunities afforded me, serving as co-editor-in-chief of Palaver (with fellow Gauntt Award winner Lauren Perez), captaining USC’s men’s club water polo team, and studying English literature abroad at a summer program at the University of Cambridge. I have also been fortunate enough to earn recognition for my writing during my time at USC, winning the Edward W. Moses Prize for Creative Writing in 2009 and the Undergraduate Writing Conference in Analytical Writing in 2011. In the fall, I plan to study for my Master’s in English literature at Georgetown University as the Lannan Center Graduate Student Fellow.
However, I readily admit that any success I’ve managed in the past four years can be directly attributed to the inspiration and dedication of the teachers who have so influenced my passions — from sixth grade to the present. To repeat a sentiment that I voiced at the Gauntt Award reception: if I am reluctant to leave this school which has given me so much, and if I am prepared for the life that lies beyond, I owe it all to the wonderful relationships that I have shared with my professors.”
{ 0 comments… add one now }