What do you love most about your major?

Studying English is a beautiful thing because it is like studying life itself. I think the chance to do that — to think deeply about life and human nature with others — is an invaluable experience. The department is very close-knit; not only do you get to improve as a writer, communicator and human being, but you also get to meet some incredible people along the way.

What is your favorite thing about MSU?

Honestly, I love the trees. They were the very first thing I noticed when I visited campus and the green environment always helps my psyche.

What kind of activities are you involved in?

I am a student lead on the Accessible Art Event, which is a super cool exhibition that brings together literature and art students, featuring “tactile” paintings inspired by literary works that highlight multi-sensory experiences. The event, happening Nov. 10 at the Broad, is designed to engage viewers across the visual disability spectrum. I’m also a lab lead in the Digital Humanities and Literary Cognition Lab and president of Sigma Tau Delta, the International English Honor Society.

What is it like being the president of Sigma Tau Delta?

It’s wonderful! I love connecting with other English majors and book lovers.

What did you think about your study abroad experience? What is the best thing you got out of it?

My recent study abroad consisted of entirely women and it was fantastic. Navigating Italy together was one of the most empowering things I’ve done. The best part was exploring places like Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast and feeling like anything was possible.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

I plan on going to grad school to get a Master’s in Art Therapy.

As a senior, what advice would you give to freshman?

Try lots of things — and pursue the ones that make you happy. You can make your college experience whatever you want it to be.

What is your favorite book(s) and why?

I have two! “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” by Ken Kesey and “Station Eleven” by Emily St. John Mandel. “Station Eleven” is the most gorgeous dystopian novel I’ve ever read and “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” has my favorite character in all of literature: Randle P. McMurphy.

What is your favorite flavor of gelato?

Cookies and cream, cookie dough… anything with cookies.

Courtney Bennett, ’18