English Major Spotlight: Siya Sakhardande

Year: Junior
Hometown: Frisco, TX

Why did you choose to major in English?

I chose to study English because of my love of reading and how it has shaped my worldview! My favorite books have been those that have changed the way I see the world and the people around me.

What has been your favorite part of your experience in the department?

Amazing faculty members who have taken the time to get to know me outside of class.

Are you pursuing any majors, minors, internships, or interests outside your English major? 

Outside of English, I am majoring in Psychology and History. I am also pursuing a minor in Leadership with hopes of going to law school after getting my undergraduate degree. My other two majors have often intertwined with themes and topics discussed in my English courses, and these three combined disciplines have definitely prepared me for law school in different ways.

What is a favorite book you read for an English class?

The Tragedy of Pudd'nhead Wilson by Mark Twain, for “Honors Modern Fiction.” I really enjoyed the mystery aspect of the book!

What is your favorite thing about Pillsbury Hall?

Pillsbury Hall is one of my favorite study spots on campus.

What is something about the English department that most people wouldn’t know?

How often English classes go beyond just the texts we read in class.

If you studied abroad, what did you take away from the experience?

I studied abroad this past summer, and seeing original printed copies of works that I have read in English classes at the U was the most exciting part! Studying abroad helped open me up to seeing different cultures and how to learn outside of the classroom.