Why English? Ella Murphy Shares

When undergraduate Ella Murphy first came to USU, she wasn’t sure what she wanted to major in. During the second semester of her freshman year, she took American Studies with Assistant Professor Travis Franks and Literary Analysis with Professor Shane Graham. These courses uncovered new ways to engage with literature and understand the impact of stories, and since then, Ella has stuck with English. 

“I love how each class sparks engaging conversations and how there are so many ways to interpret a single piece of writing,” Ella remarks. “I have always left class with a fresh perspective.”

For Ella, the English Department at USU is unique because of the welcoming environment. “My English classes have always been spaces where I’ve felt comfortable speaking up and growing as a writer,” she explains. “Along with that, it’s clear that the professors truly care about their students!”

One of Ella’s favorite memories as a student in the department was in the Special Topics in Literature class she took with Professor Christine Cooper-Rompato. The class focused on library archives, and Ella’s group tackled a project on Mormon board games. Playing the games, analyzing the meanings behind the pieces and rules, and getting their exhibit up in the USU Merrill-Cazier Library provided a unique opportunity in her coursework. 

Ella reflects, “A lesson I’ve learned as an English major is the importance of creating spaces where others feel comfortable sharing. Some of the most impactful conversations I’ve been part of and had the chance to listen to have been in English classes. I hope to help play a part in creating spaces like this wherever I go.”