CLA: Department of English

dislocate literary journal, run by Creative Writing Program graduate students at the University of Minnesota, is holding a contest for a graphic design intern. The winner receives $250 and the chance to layout issue 8 of dislocate. Any undergraduate or graduate student attending the U is welcome to apply, as long as s/he is proficient with InDesign software. Interested students should send examples of design work, including links to online portfolios, to dislocate.magazine@gmail.com with the subject line "Graphic Design Internship." Show us what you've got!

Posted by Department of English at 1:14 PM | Permalink

"As the holiday season approaches and the Twin Cities strings up its lights," notes Professor and Chair Ellen Messer-Davidow, "English has plenty of dazzle to contribute to the festivities." For news about faculty, student, and alumnae/i accomplishments and awards, check out the winter 2011 alumni magazine, English@Minnesota. Professors Nabil Matar, Maria Damon, and Peter Campion are featured, along with lots more!

Posted by Department of English at 3:19 PM | Permalink

The Writer's Block Workshop Series, sponsored by FUSE and Voices Merging, presents Guante, hip hop artist, two-time National Poetry Slam champion, social justice activist and educator. Eat a free dinner and get writing advice and exercises on Tuesday, November 15 from 5:30-7:30 pm in Coffman 324.

Posted by Department of English at 10:48 AM | Permalink

As part of its continuing Lunch Conversation Series, FUSE presents a free lunch and discussion with Associate Professor of English Rebecca Krug noon this Friday November 18. This is a great opportunity to meet professors and to ask questions. Lunch provided! Meet in Lind 226.

Posted by Department of English at 1:05 PM | Permalink

Registration for Spring 2012 is on its way! Take a break from homework on Wednesday the 2nd of November from 7-9 pm in the Nolte Center Basement. The Fellowship of Undergraduate Students in English will provide food and some discussion of available English classes next spring. Bring a spooky poem or short story to share. And if you missed the opportunity to dress up for Halloween, come in a costume! Hope to see you there!

Posted by Department of English at 1:01 PM | Permalink

Tales from the Road is an online journal of undergraduate creative work inspired by experiences abroad. Accepted genres include creative prose, poetry, art, and multimedia. Check it out.

Posted by Department of English at 10:29 AM | Permalink

The Fellowship of Undergraduate Students in English (FUSE) invites students, faculty, and staff to an evening of live music, refreshments, and conversation on Wednesday, September 14, from 6-7:30 pm in Lind Hall 207A. FUSE's mission is to enhance the education experience of English Undergraduates through peer mentorship, writing workshops, engagement opportunities, and community-building events. See you there!

Posted by Department of English at 8:31 AM | Permalink

English alumnus Nate Olson (BA 2010), who has been teaching English in Japan with the JET program, weathered the March earthquake in Hanamaki in the Iwate prefecture, 50 miles away from some of the worst tsunami damage. "A couple days prior to the quake," he writes us, "there was a magnitude 5 tremor which was the biggest earthquake I'd ever experienced. Everyone else at my school hardly batted an eye. . . . Then the big quake came [a magnitude 9]. The walls and light fixtures shook violently, books toppled off the shelves, and I said ten 'Hail Marys' and five 'Our Fathers' while waiting for the floor to collapse beneath me." The quake lasted six minutes. Olson marveled at the Japanese people's selfless and ordered response, observing that the teachers at his school visited each of their students' homes ("on spring vacation, no less!") to check on their well-being. "As an outsider, I was completely taken aback by the care I received from neighbors, coworkers, and even complete strangers following the quake."

Olson works as an ALT (Assistant Language Teacher) at two high schools, teaching a class ("Oral Communication") to 10th graders with little to no experience speaking English. At one high school, his students are university-bound with an "encyclopedic" understanding of English grammar; at the other, they know very little about the language. The difference in comprehension can be daunting: "In a given week," he describes, "I am by turns a fully-fledged teacher expected to design lesson plans around the intricacies of native English speech, and a glorified human tape recorder expected to entertain students with my 'foreignness.'" Yet the community spirit he witnessed after the quake and tsunami inspired him, and he plans to continue in the JET program, his teaching augmented with such activities as running an English club and helping a student prepare for a national English speech contest. Meanwhile, the ground shakes: amid the aftershocks was a magnitude 7 that knocked him out of bed. His thoughts are for those who have lost everything and still must stand on unsteady ground "constantly reminded of the cause of their misfortune."

Posted by Department of English at 10:02 AM | Permalink

English major and writer Jenna Mackrell is collaborating with the artist Carl Nelson on a new webcomic, exemplars! The site launched with four pages on July 14; Mackrell hopes to add a page a week. The story starts with a motorcycle and car chase through an unknown city . . . .

Posted by Department of English at 9:49 AM | Permalink

The Daily is the student-run newspaper of the University of Minnesota. The Daily needs students interested in news, sports, opinion and arts and entertainment writing, photography, video, copy editing, and design. Non-journalism majors are encouraged. Fall positions will be open Aug. 1-15. Apply at mndaily.com/jobs and include any writing samples you may have. Questions? Contact Taryn Wobbema, editor in chief: twobbema@mndaily.com.

Posted by Department of English at 9:46 AM | Permalink

BA alumnus Sam Kean's The Disappearing Spoon: And Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the Periodic Table of the Elements, just released in paperback, was publishing's sleeper hit of 2010: a science history that surprised its author as much as anyone by making the New York Times Bestseller List, primarily via word of mouth. But South Dakota native Kean, a 2002 summa cum laude double major in English and Physics, has fashioned a ridiculously readable collection of anecdotes about the elements, from hydrogen to ununbium. "I really think that the human mind works best through stories," notes Kean in an interview. More. . .

Posted by Department of English at 1:45 PM | Permalink

Copies of the 2011 Ivory Tower, the University of Minnesota's undergraduate literary arts magazine, flew out the door back in May. However, you can still view the journal, created by students in a year-long English class, online. Thanks to student initiative, the 2011, 2010, and 2009 issues are now also available via a free app for the iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch!

Posted by Department of English at 12:02 PM | Permalink

We would like to invite each of you to participate in the Second Annual English Undergraduate Conference, scheduled on April 7-8, 2011, in 150 Lind Hall. This conference was held for the first time last year and was a smashing success - we hope the same will be true again this year.

We are looking for abstract submissions, attendees, and volunteers to make sure things run smoothly! If you would like to attend or submit your work, check out the website at http://english.umn.edu/ugrad/conference.html. Registration and abstract submissions are open now!

If you'd like to volunteer to be involved with the conference, just email ayles001@umn.edu and I'll make sure I keep you in the communication loop.

The deadline for submissions is coming up soon - March 1. Submit your abstract today! We will have an abstract-writing how-to workshop being held later in February, so be sure to watch for that announcement as well.

Posted by at 11:36 AM | Permalink

ArtWords: Writing at the Weisman
Deadline: Thursday, March 10, submissions to Creative Writing Office, 222 Lind

Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in a creative writing course at the University of Minnesota fall 2010 or spring 2011.

Readers: Local writers, Weisman staff.

Criteria: Visit public artwork on campus and write a one-page prose piece or poem in response to the work. Submit your work with the appropriate cover sheet by the deadline. Names should not appear on the submitted work.

Ã…pplication: Cover sheet, submission, Coversheets, maps, artwork lists available in the Creative Writing Program Office, 222 Lind Hall. Winners announced in early April. Public reading on April 28, 2011, 7 pm. Three winners in the graduate category; three in the undergraduate category. Winners receive gift certificates to the Weisman Museum Store.

Academy of American Poets James Wright Prize
Deadline: Thursday, March 10, submissions to Creative Writing Office, 222 Lind
Award: $100

Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled at the University of Minnesota.

Criterion: Quality of writing

Reader: Garrison Keillor

Application: Cover sheet (name, address, phone, email, title of poems), 2 poems. Names should not appear on poems.

Posted by at 11:19 AM | Permalink

The Fellowship of Undergraduate Students in English invites students, faculty, and staff to an evening of live jazz, refreshments, and conversation Thursday, September 16, at 6:30 pm in Lind Hall 150. F.U.S.E.'s mission is to to enhance the education experience of English Undergraduates through peer mentorship, writing workshops, engagement opportunities, and community-building events. See their Facebook page for more information!

Posted by Department of English at 10:49 AM | Permalink

Christopher Austin, a 2008 student in Professor Geoffrey Sirc's ENGL1501W Literature of Public Life, had his final class project "Let's Talk - Girl Talk" published on-line in The Jump: Journal of Undergraduate Multimedia Projects. A professor at the University of Texas-Austin, where the journal originates, had come across the piece and contacted Professor Sirc to find Austin and obtain permission. The class project, outlined in The Jump, was to create a digital work about some aspect of public life. Austin's video tackles the subject of fair use in sampling popular music.

Posted by Department of English at 10:54 AM | Permalink

Interview with Lucy Saliger, Engaged English Scholar for March:

1. What sparked your interest in community engagement?

I believe that we all need each another's perspectives and participation if we're going to try to make a more just, compassionate society. More specifically, I know from personal experience how much of a difference it makes to connect to other people. I've had family and friends who haven't fared well in our society - some have been killed or died at young ages, one's in prison on a 27 year, 3 strikes sentence in California for crimes relating to his heroin addiction - and we were always trying to figure out how to solve these things on our own. I mean, we helped each other the best that we knew how, but we felt like we were floundering so much of the time. It would have made a huge difference to have some kind of community to work with for ideas and to see these issues in more of a societal context, instead of just personal failings. I've always believed that too many people don't have a sense of deep meaning because they learned early on that they weren't at all valued in our society. I can't do anything for my family and friends who have already died and I can't get my cousin out of prison, and that will always stay with me - the lives already lost or deeply damaged. So I want to do what I can to help people find other paths, and not to the individual materialistic success that's held out so often as a carrot in our society, but to finding that deep sense of purpose by knowing they're needed to help make a better world.

2. Is there anything at the U that contributed to this desire?

Definitely. My first semester, I had a service-learning class in Teaching English As a Second Language. I had some Political Science courses which developed my thinking about the need to actively participate in public life - the need for our learning to be connected to meaningful action, the importance of not withdrawing into only private concerns. I also understood better the structural nature of injustices and related problems in our society. Then, of course, I had Eric Daigre's famous 3741 course - Literacy and Diversity - and did my service-learning at Jane Addams School for Democracy. Last semester, I did Directed Study with him, studying examples of democratic education, like Myles Horton's Highlander School, which is all about tying education to social action in the community. And I did Directed Study with Dan Mrozowski, studying some past examples of education related to empowerment - or domestication - plus some theory about how education functions in society. I had a post-colonial literature course with Mimi Van Ausdall last semester, also, which added new pieces to my understanding of engagement and social change. At the end of the class, she asked us to choose one social justice issue related to our readings that we wanted to do something about, write what we would do, and she's going to mail those back to us in May to follow up. This semester, I started my two-semester honors thesis with Geoff Sirc as my faculty adviser (and ongoing help from Dan and Eric, plus Catherine Guisan in Political Science). It's on democratic, participatory education - what it is, what it's not, why we need it as a society, and how this relates to people telling their stories, because, of course, as an English major, I'm interested in the power of literature for resistance and social change.

3. Have these experiences changed your life? If so, how? What about your experience at the University?

I think a lot about how some people here have made such a difference for me, and there are always more people I meet who have an important effect. Sometimes even short conversations can just hit us in a certain way and have a life-changing impact. People might encourage us to do something we're a little afraid of doing and it gives us enough courage to put ourselves on the line a little more. I'm trying to find ways to do that for other people as well. I'm working at MNIC this semester, a charter school with mainly young adults who are immigrants, and I want to take the personal interest in students I work with there that people have taken in me. I believe so much comes out of just talking with one another, really listening, building on ideas and interests. I've also applied to do a UROP for summer, recording interviews with people outside of academia about their educational experiences and what they think about concepts like education for liberation. I told Dan Mrozowski about the idea last semester. He suggested I do it as a UROP and offered to be the faculty adviser for it. Now I think about ways to continue this work after I graduate in December, and things seem possible that I didn't even conceive of before. I don't know how they'll play out exactly. I know I love writing. I have ideas for working with others on needs in the community and helping people find ways to tell their own stories. A grad student in Political Science said to me that sometimes it's good to just do something really well, and see where it leads you. You can't jump ahead to assess what is possible without actually living the experiences along the way because the opportunities come out of those experiences.

4. Do you have any interesting stories about your time in the community?

At the first place I did service-learning, I was tutoring an older Somali man one day, and he was dutifully answering questions from the lesson, questions about if he should brush his teeth twice a day or twice a week, and about which drawings of women had curly or straight hair. I felt uncomfortable because it seemed condescending and also not very responsive to the vocabulary he might need most. But after I worked with someone, I always tried to engage in some spontaneous conversation because it's one of the most important ways to increase anyone's fluency. I love to garden so I asked him if he ever grew food in Somalia, and he got really excited, telling me about the gardens he used to have and the mild weather in Somalia. There was such a dramatic difference in his demeanor and level of interest in the conversation. And we were interacting as equals, which is how it needs to be all the time. There have been a lot of good experiences. At Jane Addams, in the beginning, in our large group circle discussions, we answered really basic questions, but with each week, we took on more serious societal questions, as people became more used to each other. We talked about the citizenship fees being raised from $99 in 2000 to over $600 now. People said how unjust they felt it was that they already were making some of the lowest wages, and how hard it would be to come up with that kind of money. I think that's an example of how college students learn important aspects of reality from people in the community.

Posted by clay0114 at 12:55 PM | Permalink

Come to an info session regarding Studying Abroad and Community Involvement! Hear about the past experiences of other Liberal Arts majors studying abroad and getting involved within the community!

Details:

When? Tuesday, April 6th from 12:00-2:00
Where? Lind Hall 207a

Questions:
Email: Clay0114@umn.edu

Posted by clay0114 at 12:28 PM | Permalink

If you have studied abroad or volunteered within the community, please send in a short essay (approximately 1,000 words) describing your time. This essay could be fiction, non-fiction or perhaps a mixture of both!

Deadline: March 27th
E-mail essay to: clay0114@umn.edu

One contestant will get published in LIMINAL Magazine, ALL contestants will get published in the Tales from the Road Blog.

http://blog.lib.umn.edu/capod001/talesfromtheroad/

Winner will be announced by Tuesday, April 6th between 12:00 and 2:00 in Lind Hall 207a (see blog regarding the Study abroad, Community Involvement Info Session)

Posted by clay0114 at 12:22 PM | Permalink

The Department is proud to present its first annual English Undergraduate Conference April 27 and 28. English majors will showcase their work, exchange ideas in a variety of formats, and engage in lively discussion with peers, instructors, and professors. Students will present critical essays or creative work they've produced in upper division courses as well as research for UROP, Directed Study, or other programs. All are welcome to attend!

Posted by Department of English at 12:47 PM | Permalink

Click the following link to watch Moira's spoken word:

http://english.cla.umn.edu/engagement/

Would you like to talk a little bit about your spoken word piece?

I wrote the "If I were in Charge" poem as a result of a writing prompt I was given in high school. I use it often when I am working with young people because it promotes agency and values individual voice in a world that is so easy to become lost in.

How long have you been doing spoken word? Why did you start?

I started writing poetry when I was really young (since before I can remember), and began performing poetry when I was 15 years old, after a group of poets from California came to my high school. I went to the workshop they were holding sort of by accident and at the end of the workshop, a leader came up to me and said "You're gonna share your piece right?" and I did. I was nervous, shaking, and almost crying, but I did. And if you had told me then, that I would have performed in front of a thousand people and traveled across the country to do spoken word by the time I was 21, I would have never believed you.

Describe one or two of the organizations/student groups in which you are involved. What is your inspiration for getting involved with this organization/ student group?

When I moved to MN from Madison, WI, I knew I wanted to continue working with spoken word and with youth. I knew of the MN Spoken Word Association because they had visited Madison a few times. I almost immediately sought them out and began my work as a Youth Programs Intern, working mainly with the youth slam series "Quest for the Voice." Now, almost 4 years later, I can say I have learned an invaluable amount of skills as a poet, teacher, organizer and leader from the director and artistic director Shá Cage and eg Bailey.

I also work with the student organization Voices Merging. This year I became the president of the student organization and am so proud to be a part of this group. Every 2nd and 4th Monday, Voices Merging hosts open mics in Moos Tower. When I became a member, we had 50 or so people in attendance at each event. Now, we have over 400 diverse students and community members who come every other week to share their stories and talents and to appreciate one another.


How has your involvement changed your University experience? What have you gained from such experiences?

When I first came to the U, I was in classes I didn't want to be in, I was having trouble finding people with similar interests as me and was too shy to really break the mold of what advisers and professors were telling me. Once I became involved in the community and student organizations, and did HECUA's Writing for Social Change Program, I gained a sense of confidence and agency I hadn't had before. I began taking classes that I wanted to learn from (not just ones that would help my major), taking all the opportunities that presented themselves (Including the Community Engagement Scholars Program, National Student Exchange, and UROP) and I don't think I would have been so intentional, had I not learned from my community and student involvement.

Posted by clay0114 at 1:00 PM | Permalink

Moira Pirsch has been selected to be the next Engaged English Scholar for the month of February! Moira is involved in the Community Engagement Scholars program (CESP) and HECUAs Writing for Social Change. Moira is dedicated to social change through the arts, specifically poetry, spoken word, and hip-hop. She works with youth off-campus and is very involved in on-campus groups as well. She has worked extensively with Voices Merging and the MN Spoken Word Association. This spring she is organizing a three day hip-hop conference. Moira's work is grounded in her passion for literary arts, her love of people and her desire for social change.

Posted by clay0114 at 10:37 AM | Permalink

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES (UROP) INFO SESSION!
*Tuesday, February 9th 3:30-4:30pm in 226 Lind Hall --- Refreshments
Provided!
***Be Entered to WIN A PUNCH PIZZA GIFT CARD JUST FOR ATTENDING!!***

Want to make $1,700 to study what you love?

The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) provides grants of
up to $1,700 for undergraduate students either to carry out a project of the
student's own design in close collaboration with a faculty sponsor or work
with a faculty member on her/his scholarly or creative project.. The
deadline for Summer and Fall 2010 projects is March 8. If you have
questions about UROP, please attend this session to talk with Rebecca
Rassier at rassi003@umn.edu. or click here

WRITING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE INFO SESSION **
CHALLENGE YOUR VISION, **CHANGE** YOUR WORLD
*Wednesday, March 10 3:30-4:30 in 226 Lind Hall --- Refreshments
Provided!
***Be Entered to WIN A GIFT CARD FOR FREE FOOD JUST FOR ATTENDING!!***

Want to write every day for a full semester? or get 8 credits for an
internship? Want to learn how to change the world while you do that?

HECUA (Higher Ed Consortium For Urban Affairs) offers semester long, off
campus study programs that integrate social justice and experiential
learning where you have an Internship and class 2 days/week. You are still a
U of MN student and receive 16 credits. The program explores the ways in
which writers (you!) and lit can impact social change.
www.offcampusstudy.umn.edu/hecua
/ www.hecua.org

Posted by clay0114 at 2:43 PM | Permalink

When? Wednesday, February 3rd
10:00 am to 2:30 pm

Where? Coffman Memorial Union, Great Hall

Click here for more details!

You can make a difference in the Twin Cities community! This event
provides students a chance to learn about local volunteer and
internship opportunities. Talk to representatives from more than 90
organizations to find a position that matches your major and/or
interests. This fair is coordinated by the Community Service-Learning Center (formerly part of the Career and Community Learning Center) and
sponsored by the Minnesota Student Association.

Posted by clay0114 at 12:26 PM | Permalink

If you want to watch the video version of this interview click here

Question 1: Would you consider yourself involved? If so, How? This can be inside and outside of the classroom.

My definition of student of involvement would not preclude involvement in academics necessarily nor the classroom environment. However, I am involved in a lot of different ways. For example, I try to be involved in class discussion, while outside of classroom I volunteer and I intern. I think working would qualify, but I don't want to say too much about that because I know that as students we are discouraged from holding jobs while going to school. There are many ways to be involved and it is important to find one of those ways or a few of them that work for you.

Question 2: Could you go more into depth in describing your volunteer and work experience?

I am working right now in an emergency department that is pretty well renowned. I think we are doing 20 or so research topics. The program is actually helped by the University of Minnesota. Also, I found out about the program through Googling for stuff to do.

Question 3: Why is it important to get involved?

Well, consider the alternative of not being involved- it is pretty bleak. So yes, it is important to do stuff, but it is also important to do these things well. Study up on the things that you want to do. Make meaningful contributions to a community or get involved in a community and practice your chaps.

Question 4: How has getting involved changed your experience in academia and perhaps even you career path?

It is important to be able to relate what you've learned in other disciplines and to what you are learning or whatever you are doing. It (involvement) is a better way to learn as it involves more areas of your brain physically. There are old Greek methods for learning and memorization. One of those is called the logos method. If you have to give a speech back in ancient Greece, there were no teleprompters or printers to print out your speeches. Instead, you had to sit and talk for two hours without anything. So, one method that the Ancient Greeks adapted is called the logos method. The logos method is where you picture a town in your mind and think of yourself entering the town from maybe the west end. As you enter into the first house on the right perhaps you see a vase inside the house so you tie some part of your speech to this house or to the town. This method has been proven to be very effective. Similarly, being involved in many different aspects of community life will provide the same benefits for learning.

Question 5: Do you have any advice for someone who wants to become more involved/engaged within the community or within academia?

Absolutely, do what interests you and if you don't know what interests you- do something. Go out and find people, find groups, and communities. You will know right away if it is something that you enjoy doing. Do not just assume that you don't like being involved because that is a very pessimistic way to live and you are never going to learn or adapt to new things if that is your outlook. If you don't know what you are going to go out and do just get off the couch, even if it's behind a computer screen. You can participate in blogs or even read the news.

Question 6: How do you see yourself using an English major as apart of your career?

I would like to go to medical school and become a practicing physician and I know that seems weird as an English major. However, statistically, humanities majors perform better on the MCAT than other majors. I think people could offer valid speculation as to why this is. Being an English major provides a variety of things that you can bring to the table as a scientists or a physician. It is important to know what you are doing clinically or in the lab, but it is also important to be an interesting person and be able to correlate things that other people might not be correlating. That is one way I think my major brings a lot to the table and I think other English majors should think about that too. Branch out and think about other backgrounds or look in other disciplines. Do not just do what is most comfortable, and think about things through other peoples' eyes.

Posted by Department of English at 1:49 PM | Permalink

English senior Joshua Capodarco has won the College of Liberal Arts Dr. Matthew Stark Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Student Award, which was created based on a generous donation from Dr. Matthew "Matt" Stark, a former professor at the University of Minnesota and former executive director of the Minnesota Civil Liberties Union. The award recognizes a CLA student who has demonstrated "distinguished service, writing, teaching, involvement, or public leadership in one of more of the following areas: civil liberties, civil rights, public education and social justice." The honor is presented annually at the December CLA Commencement Ceremony and carries with it a financial award of $1000. Capodarco has an extensive background in service learning, taught English in Senegal (he wrote about it here), and is currently serving as undergraduate TA for the English course Literature of Public Life. Congratulations Josh!

Posted by Department of English at 1:06 PM | Permalink

The Department is pleased to present the first in our 2009-10 eNow!
series on public engagement NEXT MONDAY OCT 5 at 2:30 pm in Lind Hall 207A.

The Publicly Engaged Classroom: Service Learning & Beyond!
English professors Josephine Lee and Ellen Messer-Davidow, PhD alumnus
Mitch Ogden, and long-time English service learning instructor Eric
Daigre (PhD 2001) will discuss and provide models for courses
incorporating service learning components, publicly engaged scholarship,
and other classroom engagement possibilities.

Professor Lee has included service learning components in drama and
Asian American Studies classes. Professor Messer-Davidow has taught such
publicly engaged classes as GWSS 4502/ENGL 4090 Women and Public Policy
and ENGL 1907W Social Texts (to read her syllabi in advance, email
sutt0063@umn.edu). Daigre has taught ENGL 3505/06 Community Learning
Internships since the course was conceived by Daigre and former
professor Tom Augst, as well as ENGL 3741 Literacy and American Cultural
Diversity. Ogden incorporated a service learning component in his
Introduction to Shakespeare course, as a graduate student here.

Join us for chocolates, a glass of wine, and a lively discussion!

Posted by Department of English at 9:34 AM | Permalink

Please join the English Department for various discussions and presentations on Public Engagement and Service- Learning. The following link will bring you to dates and times for these events:

http://english.cla.umn.edu/engagement/events.html

Posted by Department of English at 4:11 PM | Permalink

Please Welcome International Exchange Students in English studies for 2009-2010: Xu C. (China), Hyoeun C. (Korea), Jeongwon L. (Korea), Maria F. (Austria), Joo Yun L. (Korea), Manuela N. (Austria), Silvio G. (France), and Morgane D. (Belgium). Some are here for fall semester only, others for the full academic year. They are taking a variety of courses in literature, American Studies, ESL, writing, business, and other subjects.

Posted by Department of English at 8:44 AM | Permalink

The Undergraduate Studies Office in the Department of English would like to welcome three new student staff members to its office for the 09-10 Academic Year.

Both Raven H. and Moira P. are working as peer advisors. They are excited and eager to work with our staff and with students! Stop by Lind Hall 227 to meet Raven and Moira and ask them any questions you have about the Department or yours courses.

We would also like to welcome Emily C. as our Research Assistant!

We are thankful to have such great students working with us this semester. Remember to stop by Lind Hall 227 anytime to schedule an advising appointment or just talk with our students and staff.

Posted by Department of English at 3:09 PM | Permalink

Are you a creative writer? Have you been published? Now is your chance.

Shooting Star is now open and looking for submissions of creative work. Shooting star is an online journal that is looking to publish undergraduate students' creative work in all genres. Shooting Start is particularly interested in genre-bending creative works!

Are you interested in submitting? You can send all submissions to fusemn@gmail.com.

You can visit Shooting Star's website by following this link

Posted by Department of English at 3:46 PM | Permalink

Have you been abroad? Are you currently abroad? Now is your chance to tell everyone about your experience abroad.

The English Department is proud to sponsor a new blog entitled Tales from the Road Tales from the Road is an online resources for undergraduate English majors, minors and International students to contribute creative works pertaining to their experience "abroad." We are now accepting student submissions of poetry, fiction, non-fiction and all other genres that pertain to students international experience.

Did we mention that we are hosting a contest with a grand prize? All students that turn in submissions by May 6th will be entered into a contest to be judged for one of three prizes. The top literary submissions (as judged by our office) will receive a $50 gift card to the University of Minnesota book store. Two runner-up prizes will be given to second and third place submissions (this time its a $15 gift card to the University of Minnesota book store.)

Are you interested? You can find more information by visiting the website Tales from the Road Please send any questions concerning submission guidelines to englmaj@umn.edu with "Tales from the Road questions" in the subject line.

We encourage all current undergraduates with experience abroad to submit!

Posted by Department of English at 4:27 PM | Permalink

The winners of this year's Academy of American Poets James Wright Prize are Shantha Susman and Katie Leo. Both Shantha and Katie are current graduate students here in the Department of English!

Congratulations Shantha and Katie!

Shantha was awared the prize for her two poems "Franklin" and "Umbilicus" and Katie was selected for her two poems "Miss Saigon Wants a Well-deserved Vacation" and "Oppenheimer Dreams and Island."

The judge was poet Kathleen Jesme. Jesme is the author of three booksof poetry:
The Plum-Stone Game - 2009 from Ahsahta Press
Motherhouse, 2005, winner of the 2004 Lena-Miles Wever Todd Poetry Prize from Pleiades Press
Fire Eater - 2003 from University of Tampa Press.

Posted by Department of English at 10:36 AM | Permalink

Have you had your creative work published recently? Whether it was in an online journal, literary magazine, etc., you should feel proud of your work!

We are interested in recognizing students with published work by posting their information on our website! If you have had your work published within the last year please send an e-mail to englmaj@umn.edu with "Student publications" in the subject line and outline what you published, where you published it (please include a link to the online resources if available) along with your year in school, major(s) and minor(s) and full name.

We look forward to hearing from all of our accomplished writers!

Posted by Department of English at 9:30 AM | Permalink

Congratulations to English Major Mark Brenden for being published in the online literary magazine Pike Magazine! Mark had a short piece of fiction published in April's installment of Pike Magazine. Check his story entitled "Until the Dancer Comes in a Short Short Dress" by clicking on this link.

Mark's work has been described as "dotted with fresh adverbs and adjectives, a talent for which must be attributed to more than simply one's native land."

Congratulations to Mark (yet again) for his success, courage and drive!

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Have you ever heard of Pike Magazine? Pike Magazine is an online literary magazine created and run by University of Minnesota English alumnus Brooks Doherty! Brook's work, along with Mark's story, are just a few great examples of what English majors can do with their education!

Are you a creative writer too? You can submit works for publication by visiting Pike Magazine's website and clicking on the "Submit your Pike Art."

Posted by Department of English at 9:11 AM | Permalink

The Fellowship of Undergraduate Students of English (FUSE) is looking for new leadership for next year's group. Have you always thought of yourself as a leader but haven't had the time to get involved with FUSE? Now is your chance. FUSE is accepting applications from any undergraduate English major or minor that is interested in leadership. You can find a list of the officer positions below:

All Officer Duties
-Regular attendance of FUSE meetings is required. There are approximately 10-15 meetings per semester (negotiable based on class or prior obligations). Officers should be involved or up to date in some shape or form.

-Attendance of Officer meetings at designated by the president (maybe once a month or 3-4 times per semester).

Individual Officer Duties Breakdown
President:
-Collaborate with other officers to make sure tasks are being accomplished.
-Coordinate officer meetings.
-Support/problem solve and oversee tasks
-Oversee the election of new officers for following year
-Maintain contact with English Department as needed for collaboration on activities including Book Exchange or other projects.

Event Coordinator:
-Create and implement events for FUSE
-Coordinate set up/take down for each event
-Work with PR officer to make sure event is well advertised.
-Events can include but are not limited to: FUSE movie nights, workshops, live performance attendance, etc.

Meeting Manager:
-Schedule meeting time and place for weekly Fuse meetings.
-Help guide discussion and topics of meetings.

Public Relations/Marketing:
-Market student group by creating fliers or other forms of advertising.
-Manage Facebook group, blog, and e-mail list.
-Work with all other officers to get information about FUSE programs that should be included in all forms of communication.

Additional Officer (as needed)
-Assist in any tasks needed from other officers.
-Participate in idea generation.
-Help fill in for roles when others are unable to.

To Apply
-Turn in a list of ALL positions that you are interested as well as a paragraph detailing your interest in the position as well as why you think you would do well at this position.
-Please include your name, e-mail, and phone number.
-Applications can be turned in to Stephen or Josh at FUSE meetings or in Lind 227.
-Applications are due by April 24th at 4pm.

Are you interested in FUSE? You can check them out by visiting http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=17727084512.

Posted by Department of English at 12:06 PM | Permalink

Warda G.!!! Warda is a junior double-majoring in English and African American and African Studies. She has been involved in community work through Jane Addams School for Democracy and Bryant Coyle Center. Warda has also been and active participant in the Al-Madina Cultural Center. Thank you Warda for your commitment to excellence and we hope that you continue your studies and community engagement!

Here is what she has to say about getting involved:

• Why is it important to you to get involved?

It is a great way to discover myself. Getting involved in the Twin Cities area has helped me see the diversity of this community and how I can both learn from it and contribute to it.

• How has getting involved changed your education?

Getting involved has broadened my frame of reference. Being a participant at Jane Addams School has changed what I thought of learning and teaching. The cross-cultural discussions and the diverse participant I have met there have influenced my decision to major in English literature and African Studies. I am also planning to study abroad in Kenya Fall 2009 and hopefully that experience will be useful in shaping my senior thesis as well as relating what I have learned here in the US to that part of the world where I come from.

• Has getting involved changed your career path?

Yes. When I transferred to the University of MN I was registered as Political Science major, during orientation I was with a group of CLA-English majors and I spent my first year taking Biology, Society and Environment major requirements and I did not know exactly what I would do with any of this! Working with Jane Addams School for Democracy and Brian Coyle Center has helped me understand my potential and set attainable goals. I still have not decided on exactly what I want to be, but being involved has helped me see what that could look like. I am hoping my experience in Kenya next fall will continue to influence my interests and lead to fulfilling career.

• What suggestions do you have for other students that are interested in getting involved?

Community Engagement Scholars Program (CESP) is a great program that helps you make the most out of volunteering. Talk to your professors or professors from your major, it’s a great way to find out major related areas that you can get involved in.

Thank you again Warda! Do you think you have what it takes to be next Month's Engaged English Scholar of the Month? Talk to one of your English professors and ask them to nominate you for this recognition. Also, you can contact Josh Capodarco (capod001@umn.edu) if you feel that you should be nominated but you can't find a professor. We look forward to hearing from all of you doing great community work.

Posted by Department of English at 9:45 AM | Permalink

FUSE is sponsoring a Book Exchange in Lind Hall 227. What, you may ask, is a book exchange? Simply put: Take a book, leave a book. Got any books you don't want anymore? Don't throw it away, put it in the book exchange box in Lind Hall 227 and check out the shelf in Lind Hall 226 for books that you might want in exchange (it's so literal!).

Posted by Department of English at 11:44 AM | Permalink

Now that Spring Break is over and you've had the chance to reflect on your semester (right?) why not look into some interesting things happening in the English Department this semester?

As always, the Fellowship of Undergraduate Students of English meets every Tuesday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. in Coffman Union. Plus, on March 31st FUSE will be powering a special MOVIE NIGHT. FUSE will be showing One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (a film adaptation of Ken Kesey's famous novel) in Coffman 305. This showing is open to all students. Come for some snacks, some drinks and some Jack Nicholson! You can find more information by visiting FUSE's website.

Also, if you haven't already you might want to look into attending one of the Chair Search talks. This is your chance to get your voice heard about what the Department will look like in following years. Please contact Rebecca Aylesworth for more information regarding this opportunity.

As always, one of the best ways to get involved and meet staff and faculty is by attending events within the Department. One event that might interested potential writers is the event Celebrating New Books by English Faculty. This is your chance to meet with professors such as Maria Damon, Ray Gonzalez, Timothy Brennan and more! You can find more information by clicking on the following link here

Posted by Department of English at 9:32 AM | Permalink

On Tuesday, March 3rd, 2009 the Undergraduate Studies office hosted Cross-Cultural Ties: Students bringing the world together. This was a panel discussion geared at international and intercultural engagement. Students that attended had a chance to hear from Professors with experience abroad, Undergraduate students with experience abroad and International Students that are now studying in the U.S.

Panel members spoke about how their experience has changed their life and perspective! For example, on panel member said "the greatest thing about study abroad is that it does give you a new perspective on the world...it gives you a critical perspective. When you come back from abroad you can become a better citizen." This was just one of many amazing insights and suggestions that panelists expressed.

Many panelists suggested that international experience was essential for understanding your own role in our global system!

Do you want to know how you can get involved? You can always visit the Learning Abroad Center for more information about traveling abroad. Also, you can experience many cultures right here in the Twin Cities. Through service experience you can work with diverse communities without leaving the state. For service learning opportunities and volunteering you can visit the Career and Community Learning Center.

Thank you to all of our panelists for their knowledge and insight. We hope to hear from other English majors with their experience abroad and in Minneapolis.

If you would like to share your story about your international experience, or your experience here at the U please send an e-mail to Josh C. (capod001@umn.edu). Also, if you would like more information regarding the event please send an e-mail to Josh C.

Posted by Department of English at 11:11 AM | Permalink

On Thursday, February 26th, Students met with Study Abroad Alumni, Professors and Learning Abroad Center staff to learn more about the Study Abroad Process. In case you missed this event here is a run down of information you'll need to know.

If you're interested in Study Abroad you'll want to visit the Learning Abroad Center to learn more about where, when and how you can go!

If you are unsure where you want to go, and you may be scared about going for a full semester, you might be interested in a Global Seminar. Global seminars are 3 week long programs that introduce you to an geographic area, its culture and its language. Just a few examples include:

Global Seminar in Montpellier France (no previous experience in French required!)
Global Seminar in Grenada Spain (no previous experience in Spanish required!)
Global Seminar in New Zealand
Global Seminar in Dubai
Global Seminar in China

Also, you can prepare for a short trip through SPAN. SPAN helps you to design research abroad!

Also, here is what a few students have to say about studying abroad:

Allie R. "Learn as much about the program and the city you want to go to. That way you can make the most of it!"

Atoni T. "The year I spent abroad was the best experience of my life, the best year of my life."

Jeff. B. "The time I spent abroad was the best time of my life! I got to see amazing sights, travel to Ireland and France, and absorb new cultures all while earning course credit!"

Sam O. "My time abroad was life changing and enormously fulfilling. The relationships I developed and the experiences I had will be with me forever."

If you still have more questions about how you can study abroad, you can always visit your academic adviser!

Posted by Department of English at 1:58 PM | Permalink

The English Department Graduate Student Organization is holding a book sale! The Book Sale begins on Thursday, February 26th 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Lind Hall 1.

A rock bottom economy means rock bottom prices! Paperbacks are selling for 50 cents. Hardcovers and Anthologies for $1. And they said you can't get anything for a dollar.

Also, a special bag sale will occur from Noon to 2:00 p.m: All you can fit into one bag for 2 dollars!

Read your way through the recession! Stock up on cheap books.

Posted by Department of English at 9:49 AM | Permalink

The Undergraduate Studies Office in the Department of English is excited to host two new events this semester!

On Thursday, February 26th between 3:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. the English Department is sponsoring In Pursuit of Study Abroad Info Fair! This event will occur in Nolte 140 and will include free Mesa Pizza, drinks and snacks from Holy Land. The Learning Abroad Center will also be hosting a First Step Meeting during this time. Students will also be able to meet with Study Abroad Alumni, Professors with experience abroad and Learning Abroad Center members to go over all the logistics.

On Tuesday, March 3rd from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The English Department is sponsoring Cross Cultural Ties: Students Bringing the World Together. This will occur in Rapson Hall 56. This is your chance to listen to a panel discussion focusing on intercultural engagement in the English Department. Study Abroad Alumni, International Students and professors will all talk about their experiences! Free food and drinks will be provided!

Posted by Department of English at 9:33 AM | Permalink

If you were unable to attend the UROP meeting last Thursday, then you missed some amazing presenters (Thanks again!) and some fabulous Pizza Luce (Support local businesses!). Unfortunatly, we cannot recap the Pizza Luce experience. However, we can fill you in on some of the important details that you missed!

The submission deadline for UROP proposals is Monday, March 2, 2009. A great source for information, as well as the application, is available on the UROP website: http://www.urop.umn.edu/. Rebecca Rassier, the CLA UROP coordinator, who spoke at the panel, is a great resource for answers to questions and help along the path towards the application process. She can be contacted at rassi003@tc.umn.edu.

Dr. Donald Ross, who has worked with several English students in the past on UROPs and is in the process of working with another student on a UROP currently, spoke about how to approach professors as potential faculty advisors. Before you submit your UROP proposal, you have to have a faculty advisor that approves your proposal and has agreed to work with you. Dr. Ross cautioned against being afraid of cold-calling professors. It is all right to approach a professor about working with you on a UROP that you have never had a course with as long as the topic that you want to explore directly coincides with the professors own personal research – the more recent the better. Dr. Ross suggested checking the English faculty page (or the faculty page of any humanities professor) to see if their research compliments the work that you want to do in your UROP proposal. It may also be a good idea to have written your three-page topic proposal before you meet with your potential faculty, so that they have something concrete to approve. It is advisable to do a UROP on a topic matter that you have studied in at least one previous course. This will greatly strengthen your UROP application.

Sara Cohen, Josh C, and Adam Schrag spoke about the opportunities available through the Voices from the Gaps website, which is currently being remodeled. It’s an exciting time to get involved with VG, which specializes in researching the often underrepresented multicultural feminine voices of the 21st century. If this sounds exciting to you, contact Sara Cohen cohen224@umn.edu, Josh C capod001@umn.edu, or Adam Schrag atschrag@umn.edu for more information.

Direct general questions to Larisa G. gars0020@umn.edu

Posted by Department of English at 11:23 AM | Permalink

Have you heard about the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program? The UROP is your opportunity to work with professors on a research project. This is your chance to build your research abilities (something that would look great on a Graduation School application). UROP's are open to all Undergraduate students with options for self-guided or professor run projects.

One unique opportunity within the Department of English is:
The University of Minnesota's award winning project Voices from the Gap is willing to host UROP students. For more information about UROP you can come to the UROP information panel on Thursday February 12th. Also you can check out opportunities by visiting the UROP opportunities website.

Posted by Department of English at 11:26 AM | Permalink

The Undergraduate Studies office in the Department of English is looking for students that are interested in event planning for two English Department events. We are currently looking for 10 students interested in helping to plan, coordinate, set up and staff two events focusing on Study Abroad/International Exchange.
The Undergraduate Studies office recently received two grants designed to increase awareness of study abroad opportunities and increase awareness of intercultural engagement within the Department. Below are brief descriptions of the grants and activities included in event planning:

The Innovation for Broader Engagement grant will introduce students to Learning Abroad Center (LAC) opportunities, to other students who have returned from abroad and to other ways to include international study in degree programs. Event planning for this event will include:
- coordinating a time and location
- contacting students, LAC staff, professors and other individuals as possible presenters
- buying material and food for event
- advertising the event.
- recording and documenting the event toward publicizing the possibility of international study within degree programs at the U of M.
Students with previous experience abroad are encouraged to apply for the Innovation for Broader Engagement grant event.

The Intercultural Engagement grant will introduce students and staff to the intercultural exchange happening within the Department. Event planning for this event will include:
- coordinating a time and location
- contacting students, staff and other individuals as possible presenters
- working on a creative project for presentation at event.
- buying material and food for event
- advertising the event, and
- recording and documenting the event toward publicizing the intercultural exchange happening in the English Deparment
Students with multicultural backgrounds are encouraged to apply for the Intercultural Engagement grant event.

These positions are unpaid and completely voluntary. However, this is your chance to get to know members of the English Department, work with professors and build your resumé with event planning and management experience. Five (5) positions are being offered for each event. These positions include:
- Chair – oversee all event planning and coordinate all members.
- Public Relations/ Communications – Contact students and staff members, design and put up posters, advertise event,
- Event Planning – setting up event/ pulling down event, staffing event
- Budget – Obtaining material, coordinating payments
- Recording – Written and visual recording of events, transferring written and visual material to Department website (must attend events). Students with technical experience in audio-visual programs will be given special preference.

Apply for a position (you may apply for multiple positions) with a resumé outlining your event planning experience and also a short letter (informal) describing the position(s) you wish to apply for and your qualifications. Please send all material to Joshua Capodarco (capod001@umn.edu) no later than February 12th. Thank you all for your interest and we hope to see all your applications

Posted by Department of English at 12:20 PM | Permalink

Samone !!! Thank you to Samone D. for your commitment to excellence! Samone is majoring in English and Communication Studies. She has been actively involved in several student groups and organizations such as [Shades of Red] HIV/AIDS Awareness Week, Orientation and First-Year Programs, and the Queer Student Cultural Center. She had also been a Community Engagement Scholar for almost three years, volunteering at the Minnesota Internship Center.

Here is what Samone said about getting involved:

• Why is it important to you to get involved?

I don’t think our education should exist in a vacuum. If you want to work for and with others to “make the world a better place,” there are plenty of opportunities for that right here in the Twin Cities.

• How has getting involved changed your education?

As a university student, it was easy to get wrapped up in academic achievement or my ability to get employed after college, but the volunteer work I’ve done gives me a “reality check” and helps me question the material I learn in the classroom.

• Has getting involved changed your career path?

I didnÂ’t become an English major because I wanted to teach, but IÂ’ve come to realize that I may only be happy if I work in an educational environment. Working on scholarships, housing, and college applications with students can be difficult work but I really enjoy doing it, so my future plan is to become a school counselor.

• What suggestions do you have for other students that are interested in getting involved?

I would recommend anyone who would like to make volunteering part of their college career to take a service-learning class and/or become a Community Engagement Scholar. You can reflect on experiences, brainstorm with other volunteers, and make friends. Who doesnÂ’t like that?

Do you think you have what it takes to be nominated for the Engaged English Scholar of the month? Contact one of your professions and ask them to nominate you. If you don't have a close relationship with a professor you can nominate yourself by sending an e-mail outlining your credentials to Josh C. at capod001@umn.ed. We encourage you to go out volunteer, attend student groups and more!

Posted by Department of English at 10:30 AM | Permalink

Happy Holidays and Happy 2009 to all Undergraduate Students. At the Undergraduate Studies office we would like to wish everyone a happy new year and hope that all students will continue to bring excellence to the U of M English Department. This time of year is full of new things: a new year, a new president (!!!), and a new semester. This is your chance to improve on or change your involvement here at the U of M.

Just one of many ways to get involved this semester is to stop into the Undergraduate Studies office located in Lind Hall 227. You can meet with your academic adviser to discuss different ways to get involved and personally shape your education.

Also, you may want to check out the recently formed Fellowship of Undergraduate Students of English (FUSE). FUSE is a way to meet other English majors and have fun. This semester FUSE is looking for students that are interested in creating student interest groups. FUSE is open to all students and any interest. Please contact Stephen C. (cour0096@umn.edu) if you are interested.

This is just one of many ways to get involved. Feel free to stop by Lind Hall 227 and ask for the Peer advisers if you ever have any questions. Thank you to all students for their commitment to excellence this past semester!

Posted by Department of English at 11:17 AM | Permalink

Now that finals are almost over everyone will have a little bit more time to...READ! Yes, now that you don't have to read 100 pages a night for all your literature classes we know you'll be starting on that pile of novels you've been waiting to read all semester. Since you'll be reading anyways, why read alone? Try joining FUSE's Book Klub!

Book Klub is your chance to join other English majors/minors and regular people who just enjoy literature and talk about what books you're reading (and maybe even decide what books everyone else will read). Book Klub is open to all interested students and extremely interested in hearing what books students want to read!

You can find more information by visiting:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=35454372486

Also, please contact Ben Thur (thur0139@umn.edu) for information relating to the schedule for next semester.

On a side note, if you haven't seen the student group you've been searching for why not start one? FUSE is looking for students that are interested in starting projects under the FUSE name. We are open to any subject matter and interest. If you'd like to talk about a project or join FUSE please contact Steve C (cour0096@umn.edu)

Posted by Department of English at 10:57 AM | Permalink

Never fear, below is a brief synopsis of what you my have missed. All of out panelists expressed a willingness for students to contact them with further more in-depth questions. So, if you have a burning question, contact Larisa G. gars0020@umn.edu and she’ll pass on the contact info. for any and all of our fabulist panelists.

Morgan Kingsted, a former English undergraduate Peer Advisor and English major who graduated in May 2005, is currently a high school English teacher at Sage Academy, a charter school in the Twin Cities. She spoke about the differences that she has experienced first-hand between public schools (more money for basic class room items like staplers and pencil sharpeners) and charter schools (less red tap, more freedom to tailor the curriculum to students’ needs). She discussed the importance of internship opportunities at the U of MN and how much receiving an internship scholarship from CCLC (the Career and Community Learning Center) helped her finance her unpaid internship. Ms. Kingsted recommended taking a service-learning course, such as Engl 3741, if you think you might have an interest in teaching. She would be happy to talk with any interested students.

Academic background: English BA May 2005, 5-8,9-12 Communication Arts and Literature Teaching License (2006), Masters in English Education (2007) K-12 Reading License (to be completed Fall 2009), just started 9-12 Biological Sciences License (to be completed a few years down the road)

Chris Sullivan, a former English and Computer Science major who graduated in 1993, began his career in the non-profit sector, which eventually led him to pursue a law degree. After graduating from the William Mitchell College of Law in 2005, Mr. Sullivan joined the firm of Lindquist & Vennum PLLP where he handles patent, trademark, and copyright issues. One of his recent cases involved a copy write dispute over an elk sculpture (no, we’re not kidding). He would be happy to talk with any interested students.

Academic background: Education: William Mitchell College of Law (J.D., cum laude, 2005); assistant editor, William Mitchell Law Review, University of Oxford, England (International and Comparative Intellectual Property Program, 2003), University of Minnesota (B.A., Computer Science, English, 1993); Tau Beta Pi Engineering Honor Society

Danielle Kasprzak, a Spring 2007 English major graduate, is an Editorial Assistant at the University of Minnesota Press. Editorial assistants provide support to the acquisitions editors in developing and acquiring scholarly titles. This includes a variety of activities, such as heading the external review process, which involves researching and contacting potential external reviewers and drafting project summaries for internal and faculty board meetings; working closely with authors to secure permissions for illustration and previously published materials, which is often a time-consuming and complex process; and reviewing and preparing manuscripts to assure stylistic consistencies before sending to production. She strongly suggested that any and all students interested in the publishing field should find an internship – paid or unpaid – at a publishing house before they graduate from the U of MN and start trying to get a job in the publishing field. She mentioned several presses in the Twin Cities that are open to hiring interns: Graywolf Press, Coffee House Press, Milkweed Press, and the University of Minnesota Press. She also encouraged students to contact professionals in the publishing field to meet and discuss opportunities, which she would be more than happy to do with any and all interested students.

Academic background: B.A. (summa cum laude) in English and American Studies from the University of Minnesota Spring 2007

Posted by Department of English at 10:46 AM | Permalink

Congratulations to Thomas D. to being nominated for this month's Engaged English Scholar of the Month recognition. Thomas is a sophomore English Honors English major. Along with his serious work inside the classroom he is a Community Engagement Scholar( http://www.servicelearning.umn.edu/cesp/programdetails/index.html), agreeing to perform over 400 hours of community service. Thank you Thomas for your commitment to excellence. We hope that you continue your hard work in the classroom, at the U and in the Minneapolis-St. Paul community!

Here's what Thomas says about getting involved:

• Why is it important to you to get involved?

Getting involved with extra-curricular activities, such as research or community-based volunteering, builds a diverse education. Work done outside the classroom encourages creativity and builds personal character. Creativity defines “scholarship� and necessitates a diverse education!

• How has getting involved changed your education?

I have been actively volunteering at a local library teaching English-language-learners the basic tenants of American life. Though the classroom elevates my thinking and builds intellect, volunteer work grants a sense of accomplishment and humility unobtainable in school. It is uniquely gratifying and contributes to my education by cultivating social skills necessary for future study and occupation.

• Has getting involved changed your career path?

Though I had planned since a young boy to become an attorney, my volunteer work and English studies have led me to pursue a teaching and research career in English Education. Volunteer teaching and research has changed my career path indefinitely!

• What suggestions do you have for other students that are interested in getting involved?

First, I would recommend the Community Engagement Scholars Program (CESP). The program requires volunteer work and engages many social issues according to one’s areas of interest. Second, I would certainly encourage students to “get-tight� with their professors. Their wealth of knowledge motivates scholarship and stimulates our learning. Get the most out of your education by getting involved!

Thanks for your commitment to excellence Thomas! Think you have what it takes to be nominated? Contact one of your professors and tell them to nominate you!

Posted by Department of English at 3:52 PM | Permalink

English and philosophy senior Sarah Choy was honored at the 2008 Equity and Diversity Breakfast November 20 at the McNamara Center with a $1000 Sue W. Hancock SEED of Change Award. The awards go to students engaged with issues of equity and diversity through outstanding academic achievement and activism. Choy is involved with the English Undergraduate Studies Committee, Minnesota Rainbow Alliance for the Deaf, and Mu Daiko Theater. Along with her major coursework, she has taken American Sign Language classes. "Although my main fields of study are English and Philosophy," notes Choy, "I find myself pouring a lot of my energy into the American Sign Language Department as a tutor. A few years ago, my mother found herself on her way to Deafness which drove me to learning the language; the University has given me the skill to communicate with her."

Posted by Department of English at 10:21 AM | Permalink

ENGL 3351W: Voices from the Gaps: Writing and Art by Women of Color

M, W 2:30-4:35, Lind 217

Instructor, Sara Cohen

The Spring 2008 section of Voices from the Gaps will concentrate on Latin American and Caribbean Jewish women writers of color in order to ask what each of these terms means ("Latin American," "Caribbean," "Jewish," "of color") and to look at the different ways that these diasporic identities intersect and are represented in the literature of Achy Obejas, Ana-Maurin, Lara, Alicia Kozameh, and Ana María Shua, among others. We will be reading genres ranging from memoir to magical realism in addition to theoretical works about the concepts of mestizaje, borderlands, and Diaspora. We will also think about the significance of these concepts, particularly borderlands and Diaspora, in relation to cyberspace--which is where we will publish some of our work on these writers.

This class is associated with the award-winning Web site Voices from the Gaps (http://voices.cla.umn.edu), a web-based project that recognizes the work of a transnational community of women writers and artists of color maintained by the English department here at the University of Minnesota. Part of the intention of this class is to get work produced by students published on the Web site, thus satisfying the dual purposes of enriching the content of the site while showcasing the students' academic achievements. The Web site includes artists' biographies, book reviews, and interviews, all of which we will be producing as assignments for this class.

*This class Meets CLA requirements for Cultural Diversity Theme, Other
Humanities Core, and Writing Intensive.*

Posted by Department of English at 3:58 PM | Permalink

Come to one of three "What Can I Do with a Major in English" sessions to find out. This is your chance to hear from U of M alumnus talk about how their English degree gave them the edge in the professional world. Three sessions are offered with unique opportunities:

On Thursday, November 20th between 12:20 p.m. and 2:15 p.m. in Lind Hall 203 you can come and talk with Alumnus currently working in the Creative Writing Field. Participants will include published authors, a dance critic and graduates from the U of M's MFA in Creative Writing program.

On Tuesday, November 25th between 8:00 a.m. and 9:55 a.m. in Lind Hall 203 you can come and talk with Alumnus currently working in the Publishing field. If you are interested in publishing this is your chance to get the edge on the competition!

Finally, on Thursday, December 4th between 4:40 p.m amd 6:35 p.m. in Amundson Hall 124 you can come and talk with Alumnus about other career paths as an English major!

These meetings are open to the public but you are encouraged to send an e-mail to confirm your attendance. If you have questions or would like to register please contact Josh Capodarco (capod001@umn.edu). We hope to see you all there!

Posted by Department of English at 12:35 PM | Permalink

Don't worry! We got you covered. This past Thursday, November 6th, students met with Learning Abroad Center staff, Professors and other U of M students to talk about studying abroad. They asked questions like: how do I choose a program? What do I need to do before I can go? and How much does it cost?

Some of the major themes of the meeting focused on two great opportunities for students:
Are you thinking of studying abroad but don't want to spend an entire semester? Then May Session Global Seminars are great for you. This May the English Department is offering a special Global Seminar in Montpellier, France. This is a 3 week, 3-credit program where students will:
- Trace the steps of authors that wrote in southern France. Readings will include R.L. Stevenson, Joseph Conrad, Tracy Chevalier and more.
- Write your own Travel Memoir,
-Participate in Excursions around Montpellier and to busy port city of Marseille, Aigues Mortes, and the Cevennes.
No knowledge of French is required! Please contact April Knutson knuts001@umn.edu with more information. You can also find more information by visiting: http://www.UMabroad.umn.edu/programs/global_seminars/programs.html

Also, SPAN (Student Project for Amity Among Nations) is offering unique options for going abroad. This year SPAN is offering unique study abroad programs to The European Union and Greece. SPAN is a program designed for students that are interested in conducting independent research. SPAN helps you develop an understanding of the host country, prepare your thesis and conduct your research while in country. You can recieve up to 8 University of Minnesota semester credits for your participation.
For more information contact: span@umn.edu or call 612-626-1083.

Finally, if you still haven't found what you are looking for please visit the Learning Abroad Center's website (http://www.umabroad.umn.edu/). LAC staff can help you find a program, give you advice about financial aid and help you with any questions. You can stop by 230 Heller Hall and begin your search!

If you have any further questions or want to know more about this meeting in the English Department please contact Josh Capodarco (capod001@umn.edu). Thank you to all the participants for making another Thursday Conversation possible.

Posted by Department of English at 4:55 PM | Permalink

The Fellowship of Undergraduate Students of English (FUSE) and Ivory Tower, the U of M's Undergraduate literary magazine, will be paring up this semester to bring you a writing workshop! This workshop is designed to help you workshop your creative work in preparation for a Ivory Tower submission deadline of December 1st. This is your chance to hear what Ivory Tower thinks of your piece before you submit it!

The workshop will be lead by a guest speaker and a current U of M MFA student in creative writing. Come to Nolte Lounge on November 13th between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Free cookies and ice cream will be provided!

This is a great chance to meet fellow creative writers and get feedback on your writing. Also, this is your chance to get published by submitting your work to Ivory Tower!

More information can be found by visiting: http://www.ivorytower.umn.edu/

If you have questions please contact ivory@umn.edu

Posted by Department of English at 12:23 PM | Permalink

Congratulations to Emily L. for being nominated as November's Engaged English Scholar of the month! We would like to thank Emily for her commitment to excellence during her Undergraduate experience. Emily is a senior English Major. She has been involved with student research and community work. Along with her different learning experiences through HECUA and UROP, Emily has volunteered at a local high school.

Here's what Emily has to say about getting involved:

• Why is it important to you to get involved?

Getting involved and campus and in the community is important for two reasons. First, I think it's all too easy, when you're in college and on a campus and large and comprehensive as ours, to forget that there is bigger picture. Which brings me to the second reason for getting involved: it brings a whole new aspect to you education. Using my knowledge and skills to run an organization, to influence my peers, to better my community has helped me understand my classroom experiences in new ways. It has provided a context for my education-- I know that I am not just going to school of the sake of a degree, but that research in literature can be socially responsible, an act of social change.

• How has getting involved changed your education?

Getting involved in other educational pursuits, including HECUA (http://www.offcampusstudy.umn.edu/hecua/) and UROP (http://www.research.umn.edu/undergraduate/) ; on campus with my sorority, Alpha Chi Omega; and in the community, volunteering in a high school classroom, for example, has helped me understand how my academic interests can mean in the world. It helped me decide to pursue graduate school and also just to have more fun while I'm here.

• Has getting involved changed your career path?

I came to the U planning to become a high school English teacher. Through my involvement on campus, I began to realize that this career path was not going to be enough to satisfy me. I started to think about a career in the nonprofit sector. Through my experience with HECUA's Metro Urban Studies Term, however, I came to realize that this was not the right plan for me either. I began to think about a career in academia, and the UROP program reinforced my love of research, and helped me understand how I could combine my passion for literature with my commitment to social justice by pursuing socially relevant and responsible research.

• What suggestions do you have for other students that are interested in getting involved?

Read your English newsletter! There is so much going on at this campus, so many opportunities for involvement-- so many that it's easy to miss them. Try out some student groups and network with people who share your passions and goals.

Thanks to Emily for her hard work. We hope she continues her in-class excellence and community work. Are you interested in being nominated as the Engaged English Scholar in December? Talk to one of your professors about your current community work and see if they'll nominate you. All nominations and other questions can be sent to Josh Capodarco (capod001@umn.edu)

Posted by Department of English at 12:05 PM | Permalink

If you missed this Thursday's Conversation with professionals from the Journalism/Publication/Editing field you missed a lot! Students met with four presenters that explained how one makes money in the market, how one gets started writing and what it takes to be a professional writer.

If you are interested in further information about the meeting, such as presenters and information provided at the meeting please contact Josh Capodarco capod001@umn.edu. Also, if you are looking for an internship or work in the journalism field e-mail Josh for more information!

Thanks to all of our presenters that helped make another Thursday Conversation possible!

Haven't seen what you'd like yet? Check out all of the upcoming Thursday Conversations located at the English Undergraduate website.

Posted by Department of English at 3:51 PM | Permalink

Are you a part of FUSE yet? Did you miss the first meetings but are still interested? Then don't hesitate to check out a meeting of FUSE and find out ways that you can get involved with exciting Literary events going on through out the community.

The first Literary event that FUSE will be attending will be Voices Merging on Monday Oct. 13 at 8:00. FUSE will be meeting at the Fireside Lounge on the 1st floor of Coffman at 7:30, and then everyone will head over to 2-650 Moos Tower.

FUSE has also tapped into the vibrant creative writers through out campus. Work shopping and discussing readings suggested by fellow members from other slightly more famous authors is the order of the day at FUSE meetings held every Wednesday 3:30-5:30 in Coffman Memorial Union. Meetings are held either in Room 301 or Room 302 so make sure that you e-mail Stephen, cour0096@umn.edu, or Larisa, gars0020@umn.edu, before you head out to the meeting. Also, if you would like to be a part of the weekly FUSE e-mail, please let either Stephen or Larisa know via e-mail. Thanks and we look forward to seeing you there

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Don't worry! In case you were unable to attend, here is what happened:

Members of Ivory Tower and Voices Merging met with interested students and talked about what they do, how they do it and how students can get involved.

What is Ivory Tower? The Ivory Tower is the U of M's Literary magazine produced for and by Undergraduates. They release yearly print and e-publications. Ivory Tower is currently looking for poetry, fiction, non-fiction and art submissions for their new publication! Check out their website to see last year's publication and learn how to submit: http://www.ivorytower.umn.edu

What is Voices Merging? Voices Merging is a student based artist coalition. All forms of performance and visual art are welcome including: spoken word, poetry, dance, song, musical instrument, visual art, etc. They have open mics every second and forth Monday of each month in Moos Tower, room 2-650. Open mics are from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. but performance sign up starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information contact oncevoice@umn.edu

If you're interested in learning moreplease contact Josh Capodarco (capod001@umn.edu)

Thanks to Ivory Tower and Voices Merging for making another Thursday Conversation possible!

Posted by Department of English at 1:11 PM | Permalink

Congratulations to Larisa G. for being recognized as October's Engaged English Scholar of the Month. Thank you Larisa for your commitment to excellence!

Larisa is a senior Honors English major and French Major. She has been involved with student organizations and community work. Along with her work outside the classroom, Larisa dedicates her time to helping other Undergraduates as one of the Undergraduate Studies office’s Peer Advisors. Larisa is a dedicated student who is currently working on her Suma Cum Laude Thesis.

What does Larisa have to say about getting involved?

"My education has been broadened, strengthened and challenged by my work outside of the classroom. During my work as an ELL teaching assistant at Cedar Riverside, I was forced to consider the value of an English education. It is so important to work both within and outside the walls of academia so that you learn to understand real-world complexities of many different kinds of existence."

What suggestions does she have for students interested in getting involved?

"Students that are interested in getting involved should try to find their niche. Read the English listserv and go to some off campus events that will augment both your academic career and your personal growth. Also, check out some of Eric Daigre’s classes. I got started at Cedar Riverside because of Eric’s 3741 Literacy and American Cultural Diversity course and it was an awesome experience!"

Larisa's picture is on display in Lind Hall 227, the Undergraduate Studies advising office. Please stop by and take a look! Are you interested in getting nominated as the Engaged English Scholar of the Month? If you feel you have what it takes talk to one of your professors and suggest your name for nomination. If you're nominated you'll be recognized with a fun prize!

Thank you Larisa for bringing excellence to the Undergraduate Studies program!

Questions? Please contact Josh Capodarco (capod001@umn.edu).

Posted by Department of English at 11:53 AM | Permalink

The English Undergraduate Office can help you write your personal statement for application to Graduate and Professional school. On October 9th in 207A Lind Hall 1pm-2:15pm, we will have faculty and graduate students available to answer all of your questions and to offer useful tips! We hope to see you there on Oct. 9th so mark your calendars and bring your questions!

Can't make it to the meeting? Have questions or concerns about the meeting, advising, etc? E-mail Stephen or Larisa at cour0096@umn.edu and gars0020@umn.edu respectively.

Posted by Department of English at 10:20 AM | Permalink

Every Thursday come grab some free refreshments and talk to Undergraduate students, Graduate students and Alumni that have been involved in the English Department at the University of Minnesota. Waltz in, grab a chair and start asking questions. The sessions are free to all interested English Majors and Minors. All sessions are open between Noon and 2:00 p.m. You are free to come and go as you please. All sessions will be held in the English Undergraduate Study Lounge located in the back of the English Office in Lind Hall 227. See below for Dates:

October 9 – Come meet some English Undergraduates involved in Student groups at the U: Members of the following student groups will be present: Voices Merging, Ivory Tower and the Arts Quarter Club.

October 16 – Come meet some English Department Alumni currently working in the Editing/Journalism field.

October 23 – Come meet some English Majors and Minors involved in community work. Hang out and ask them how they got involved, what they are doing now and how community involvement has changed their life and their education.

October 30 – Come meet some English Undergraduates involved in Student groups at the U: Members of the following student groups will be present: The Minnesota Daily, The College of Liberal Arts Student Board and PRISM.

November 6 – Come meet some Undergraduate students, Graduate Students and Professors that have been involved or worked with study abroad. Meet students returning from spending time abroad alongside members of the Learning Abroad Center.

November 13 – Come meet some radical professors at the U. These professors, from a variety of fields will be there to discuss their research, their outreach and how they are trying to transform the world through education. Professors TBA

November 20 – Come meet some graduate students currently involved in the U of M’s Master of Fine Arts Graduate program. Grab some coffee, bring your favorite book or poetry and see what it’s like to continue your education as an MFA student. Directly following the session there will be an info session for the MFA in Lind Hall so feel free to skip on over to Lind 207A.

December 4 – Don’t know who we are? Come meet the staff of the Undergraduate English Office. Stop by, grab some coffee and ask us what we do! (we work for you, right?)

Posted by Department of English at 2:59 PM | Permalink

Did you miss the September 24th meeting on UROP but still want to find out more? Just stop by the Undergraduate office in Lind 227 and ask for Larisa. She can fill you in on what you missed and suggest two different English major student contacts who are happy to speak with prospective UROP students about their experiences as English majors with UROP. You can also e-mail Larisa with your questions at gars0020@umn.edu!

Remember, the deadline for UROP submission proposals is October 6th. Students who are awarded UROP grants during this semester will conduct their research during Spring Semester 2009. The application deadline for UROP submission proposals for Spring Semester 2009 with research to be conducted in Summer 2009 or Fall 2009 is March 2, 2009. It's never too early to start planning to apply for UROP!

Posted by Department of English at 11:35 AM | Permalink

The Undergraduate Studies program would like to welcome our two new peer advisors: Steve Courchane and Larisa Garski.

Steve and Larisa are both Senior English Majors and are ready to help you solve any problems. They are a great addition to the office and we’d love for you to meet them! If you’d like to make an advising appointment please stop by Lind Hall 227 or call 612-625-4592 and schedule an appointment.

Welcome Steve and Larisa and we appreciate all of your work!

Posted by Department of English at 4:30 PM | Permalink

Melissa Shelsby, English BA summa cum laude spring 2008, received a Fulbright as a Teaching Assistant in Korea for 2008-2009. Congratulations, Melissa!

Recent past English alum Teaching Fulbright winners include Dawn Burzlaff (BA 2002, English, Teaching Assistant, Korea) and Paula H. Chesley (BA 2002, English and French, Teaching Assistant, France)

Fulbright Grants are awarded for one year of study, research, teaching, or creative work in one of approximately 100 foreign countries. For complete grant and fellowship information, see Scholarship Information for U of M-Twin Cities Students.

Posted by Department of English at 10:49 AM | Permalink

Assistant professor Siobhan Craig received the Ruth Christie Distinguished Teaching Award for English for 2008-10. The Ruth Christie prize is decided by undergraduate student voting.

Posted by Department of English at 8:54 AM | Permalink

Help celebrate the 2008 issue of the Ivory Tower! You are invited to the launch party of the undergraduate art and literary magazine on Friday, April 25 from 7 to 9 pm in room 120 of the Elmer L. Andersen Library (located on the West Bank of the University of Minnesota). The evening will feature readings of several chosen submissions, live music, and the awarding of $100 for the winning entries in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and art. A dessert reception will follow.

Posted by Department of English at 9:12 AM | Permalink

This year, we will be able to offer two undergraduate Marcella DeBourg awards at $1000 each. These are not scholarships. If a student has financial aid, the funds will be applied directly to their financial aid account.

The deadline for the DeBourg is Monday, March 24. You must be currently enrolled English undergraduates. The application is a cover letter concerning their interest/project (plus name, address, phone, email, student ID number) and a writing sample of 15-20 pages of prose or 6-8 pages poetry. Applicants should be interested in giving "creative expression to women's lives." This award is open to students of any gender. The prose can be creative or academic. The criteria is the quality of writing. Submissions should be brought to the Creative Writing Program Office, 222 Lind Hall, by the deadline date.

Posted by Department of English at 2:06 PM | Permalink

The Esther Freier Endowment presents Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks, speaking 7:30 pm, Wednesday, March 26, at the Ted Mann Concert Hall--a free event and open to the public. No tickets necessary. Parks is the author of Topdog/Underdog, Venus, and In the Blood. The Framing Suzan-Lori Parks series, presented with the Department of Theatre, Frank Theatre, the Playwrights' Center, and McKnight Special Events, concludes Tuesday, April 1, with a discussion of Parks' place in the history of African American theater. Panelists include e. g. bailey, Pamela Fletcher, Josephine Lee, Alexs Pate, and Dominic Taylor (7:30 pm, Cowles Auditorium).

Posted by Department of English at 2:02 PM | Permalink

Tuesday, February 19
4:30-5:30pm
150 Lind Hall

Come find out about research opportunities in the English department! Work with distinguished faculty through UROP (Undergraduate Research Opportunities) or research women and minority writers through Voices from the Gap. Hear the latest on faculty research opportunities, and listen to undergraduates and professors talk about their past collaboration together. Oh yeah, did we mention REFRESHMENTS?

Posted by Department of English at 4:36 PM | Permalink

APPLY BY FEBRUARY 15, 2008.
Application forms are now available for the 2008-09 CLA Continuing Student Scholarships. There are nearly 20 types of scholarships offered through CLA with over 100 scholarships expected to be awarded. Scholarships range from $400 to $5,000 for the 2008-09 academic year. Some are specifically for English majors! Information about all CLA Continuing Student Scholarships can be found at http://scholarships.cla.umn.edu/continuing_students/. Warning: Careful Reading Required!

Applications and supporting materials must be submitted to the Undergraduate Programs office in 113 Johnston Hall no later than 4 p.m. on Feb. 15th, 2008.

Posted by Department of English at 10:40 AM | Permalink

Put Down the Book and Talk to Someone!

FUSE, the Fellowship of Undergraduate Students of English, invites majors to meet each other in a variety of settings. The mission of FUSE, according to its founding members, is “to connect to the literary pulse of the Twin Cities and provide a dynamic student community for English majors at the University of Minnesota.�

Regular Activity:
*weekly English Study Nights, every Tuesday night, 6pm-9pm at Marrakesh Coffee in Dinkytown, to hash out ideas for the next paper, discuss recently-read books, or just hang out!

For more information on events, study nights, and other activities, students can contact: UMN.FUSE@gmail.com, check out the FUSE website, and “Put down the book and talk to someone!�

Posted by Department of English at 10:13 PM | Permalink

Leigh Herrick, English and French summa cum laude graduate, University of Minnesota, is published in COST OF FREEDOM: The Anthology of Peace & Activism in which she has two poems. Leigh Herrick is a multimedia artist. Discover her work on mnartists.org.

Posted by Department of English at 3:59 AM | Permalink

English/Theater student Colin Waitt performs in Bards, a Fringe Festival comedy presented August 3 through August 12 by Four Humors Theater. Bards follows spies Christopher Marlowe and William Shakespeare on a dangerous mission for the Queen. Four Humors Theater was founded by University of Minnesota students. All involved with the production are either past or current students. All performances are at the Southern Theatre on the West Bank.

Posted by Department of English at 5:49 PM | Permalink

The Fantasy Matters Conference, set for November 16-18 at the University of Minnesota, is looking for paper, panel, and author reading submissions by June 15. This conference takes the position that fantasy literature plays an important role not only in popular culture, but also in the realm of literature itself. Scholars of fantasy literature at any level (fan, undergraduate, graduate, or professional) are invited to submit abstract proposals of 250 words. Keynote speakers will be Neil Gaiman, author of the Sandman series of graphic novels, and University of Minnesota professor Jack Zipes, noted scholar of fairy tales and folklore. The Name of the Wind author Patrick Rothfuss will be a featured reader, among others.

Posted by Department of English at 9:22 PM | Permalink

The May session class ENGL3020 The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes presents student research projects on the final day of class, Thursday, June 7, from 10 am to noon. Instructor Kate Hannah's undergraduates have been investigating topics in the Sherlock Holmes Collection at Andersen Library. Among their featured findings: "The Women of the Sherlock Holmes Canon," "Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and His Reading Public," and "Sherlock Holmes and Forensic Science." Interested parties are welcome to attend. Room 120B, Andersen Library. Meanwhile the University of Minnesota Showboat Players present Sherlock's Last Case from June 15 to August 25; and the University co-sponsors the Sherlock Holmes convention Victorian Secrets and Edwardian Enigmas here July 6-8.

Posted by Department of English at 8:54 PM | Permalink

The Department of English is proud to host poet, scholar and teacher Steven Winduo in 2007-08. Winduo lectures in literature and language at the University of Papua New Guinea. He has published two poetry collections: Lomo'ha I am, in Spirit's Voice I Call (1991) and Hembemba: Rivers of the Forest (2000). Windou is the founding editor of Savanna Flames: A Papua New Guinea Journal of Literature, Language, and Culture. For fall, he will teach the undergraduate classes Analysis of the English Language and Literacy and American Cultural Diversity.

Posted by Department of English at 4:35 PM | Permalink

The Department of English undergraduate literary magazine Ivory Tower launched its 2007 issue with two readings at semester's end. The first, on April 27, brought a packed house to the Weisman Art Museum. After student contributors read, the Ivory Tower editors took the stage to announce the winning entries in each category. Becky Lang's "Cocoa Season" won for fiction; Luci Kandler's "History of a Lake at Night" won for creative nonfiction; Erica Niemiec's "Convergences and Crossings" won for poetry; and Angie Myhre's "Believer" won for art. Congratulations to the staff and all contributors!

Posted by Department of English at 4:04 PM | Permalink

Two English majors were selected for the 2007-08 Selmer Birkelo Scholarships, which honor 14 high achieving students in the College of Liberal Arts: Libby Issendorf, who is double majoring in English and Journalism, and Amanda Steepleton. Congratulations also to our other 2007-08 English scholarship and award winners.

Posted by Department of English at 2:46 PM | Permalink

Dislocate, the literary journal produced by English graduate students, releases its third issue with a party 7:30 pm Tuesday April 17 at the Ritz Theater, 345 13th Ave. NE, in Minneapolis. Local poets Jon Vick, Matt Rasmussen, and Portland writer Erin Ergenbright will read. The Ivory Tower, the undergraduate literary magazine and English course, hosts a launch party for their 2007 issue at 6 pm on April 27 at the Weisman Art Museum, Dolly Fiterman Riverview Gallery. Creative Writing chair and professor Julie Schumacher will speak, along with journal contributors and editors.

Posted by Department of English at 5:07 PM | Permalink