Tanya Schmidt, Class of 2012
President of Sigma Tau Delta at Santa Clara University
The English Department offers a variety of courses taught by engaging professors. Through events such as Pizza with the Profs, I have enjoyed getting to know English professors outside of the classroom. A course on Shakespeare's comedies led me to present a paper at an international English conference and to embark on a year-long research project funded by an English Department fellowship. I look forward to continuing research related to this project in graduate school. Developing skills in writing and critical thinking has helped me to articulate and put into perspective other aspects of my life, including participation in NCAA volleyball, immersion trips, and service events. English at Santa Clara University has inspired and prepared me to pursue a career in teaching.