Why English? Karina Ramirez Shares

It was poetry and song lyrics that first drew Karina Ramirez, English literature undergraduate, to studying English. “I have always felt an admiration towards literature and language arts throughout my education and personal life. I just feel like that’s where my heart belongs,” she reflects. “I also love to write and journal, and I felt like English was the way to channel that passion into my future career.”

Upon arriving at USU, Karina decided to stay with the English Department because of the people in it. “My classmates have impressed me with their thoughts and ability to express and articulate themselves. I knew I had to stick with the English Department so I could absorb their thoughts,” Karina comments. “I also love the professors. They’re seriously so amazing and supportive. They give me confidence and help me believe in myself.”

For Karina, the professors are what make the program unique, both from other universities and other departments at USU. She notes, “The education I’ve received in the English Department has not only deepened my intellectualism but has broadened my worldview and made me a better person.”

One of Karina’s favorite memories in the department was curating an exhibit in a Shakespeare class last spring, watching it come to life with her classmates. She also realized her love for nonfiction writing, and through that course, she expanded her love of storytelling.

“The essays I wrote for my nonfiction writing class are my favorite essays I’ve written,” she says. “Through my nonfiction class, I got introduced to podcasts and radio, which motivated me to join Aggie Radio.” Through Aggie Radio, and her newfound love of podcasting, Karina and her friend Destanie started a show called “Jasmine Radio,” which airs every Thursday from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. on 92.3 FM.