Jerika
English Language and Literature
Second Year
Hometown: Richmond, BC
Extra-Curricular Involvement:
President, Arts and Humanities Students’ Council
Director, Iconoclast Collective
Why did you choose Arts and Humanities at Western?
I chose Arts and Humanities because of English. In truth, it is difficult to say that I even made a choice when it feels as if the choice was made for me long ago. English has been a passion of mine since before I knew how to properly spell the word ‘passion.’ I love the ability of literature to transcend time and space, to grapple with complex ideas of self and society through stories, and to capture feelings and images previously thought ineffable. It was a welcome surprise when I found myself interested in several of the other departments in Arts and Humanities as well.
What is one highlight of your Western experience so far?
A definite highlight of my time at Western would be my work with Iconoclast Collective, an arts and culture on-campus publication. The first issue that I helped to create was HYPHEN which focuses on the concept of the hyphenated identity. Through creating this issue, I had the opportunity not only to meet and work with some of Western’s talented writers and artists but also the opportunity to do some artistic work and self-exploration of my own. In a time when I am so often lost in the hustle and bustle of work and academics, it is a breath of fresh air to be able to nurture my creative side now and again.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am pursuing a career as a lawyer, so if all goes well law school will be my next step after graduation. Which law school or field of law I would choose is still up in the air, but hopefully I will be able to sort that out when the time comes. One step at a time, right?
What advice would you give to incoming Arts and Humanities students?
As a university student: Prioritize your time carefully, try to always be proud of the work that you submit, and plan ahead. As a student in general, as someone who cares about their education and wishes to learn: Foster your curiosity. Regardless of their effect on your resumé or GPA, pursue with tenacity the things that enliven and inspire you. Reserve time for your passions; make space for new ones. Ensure that at the end of your academic career, you can echo Mark Twain in saying that you never let your schooling interfere with your education.
What is the best thing about your department?
The best thing about English is that it is infinite and full of niches. There are millions upon millions of books in the world, each one so unique yet similar to the others. There is always something new to read, some new lens through which to analyze, and here at Western, there is always a professor equally interested, if not more, about the niche of literature that you are. Hence, the best thing about English at Western is that when faced with English’s daunting endlessness, you can always find encouragement in the insightful and dedicated professors who are eager to help guide your way.
