English Major Spotlight: Beatrice Handlin

Year: Senior
Hometown: White Bear Lake, MN 

Why did you choose to major in English?

When I was in my junior year of high school and taking PSEO courses at the U, my "Introduction to Literature" instructor Sam Crain and "Introduction to Creative Writing" instructor Jonathan Crowl both pulled me aside and encouraged me to pursue English and creative writing based on the work I was doing in those classes. At the time I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to study, I just knew I wanted to work in education or social services, and with those gentle nudges I figured out that I wanted to study English, creative writing, and secondary education.

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

Finding new texts and authors in every course I take. I don’t always like the texts, but I always learn something new, which is really satisfying when I look back at my time in the department and can see a tangible progression of knowledge. 

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

I am also minoring in creative writing with a track in secondary education. When I am not in the English department, I teach one of the Biology 1003 labs, am an assistant coach for the White Bear Lake High School speech team, work in communications for the Language Center at the University, and am the Vice-President of the non-profit People for PSEO. Being an English major has given me so many transferable skills that have both influenced and been influenced by my study of English, especially when working with students and writing professionally.   

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

We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson! I read it all the way back in ENGL 1001W, and it still sticks with me. 

What English course would you recommend?

I would recommend any of the creative writing courses, because they are super fun, encourage you to challenge your own creative abilities, and introduce you to authors that you might not have discovered otherwise. 

What is your favorite thing about Pillsbury Hall?

I love the undergraduate lounge. I study and hang out with friends there a lot. 

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

The classes tend to be pretty small and discussion heavy, so you can get really fantastic connections with your instructors and peers that you might not get in other departments.