English Major Spotlight: Devin Everding
Year: Senior
Hometown: Glencoe, MN
Why did you choose to major in English?
English spoke to me because I loved theater in high school. I had a hard time fitting in, but when I joined theater, I finally felt as if I had found the place in which I truly belonged. While I knew my calling wasn't necessarily to be an actor, I knew I could find a lot of joy sharing my love for literature and theater with others, so I decided to become an English teacher. I also had a LOT of wonderful English teachers in high school, and I felt as if I owed it to them to pass on what they had given me.
Are you pursuing any majors, minors, internships, or interests outside your English major?
I'm currently minoring in Classical and Near Eastern Religions and Cultures, and I'm in the English DirectTrack to Teaching Program. CNRC gives me the ability to see some of my favorite Classical Greek literature in the context in which they exist, which is essential to literature as a whole. DirectTrack is more just to get my teaching license; but learning how to teach others the importance of literature (as well as grammar and linguistics as a whole) is, of course, extremely important for my English degree and future career plans. I find a lot of love in things like TTRPGs, board games, and video games, which introduce literature in mediums that I appreciate heavily. I've also had the chance to dive into creating my own worlds in TTRPGs by running my own game of Pathfinder.
What is a favorite book you read for a UMN English class?
Hands down Octavia Butler's Dawn. This novel is a masterpiece, and I loved every second of reading it. I also produced one of my best papers on this novel.
What English course(s) would you especially recommend?
If it says Lecturer Heather Holcombe is teaching it, it's a great class. More specifically, I really enjoyed her "Science & Fantasy" class. The reading list was superb, and I felt as if I got to dive really deep into literature that I'd actually choose to read, which adds a whole layer of personal attachment. I also really enjoyed the Shakespeare class, just because it gave me a chance to read some of his works that I feel don't get talked about as much, or don't get read in high school because they're too racy.
What is your favorite thing about Pillsbury Hall?
I love the medieval-on-the-outside-modern-on-the-inside feel. You feel as if you're walking into a castle, but the interior is actually really cozy and perfect for those winter days when you're freezing and just want a warm place to chill for a bit.
What is something about the English department that most people wouldn’t know?
You honestly learn so much in English. It's not just about literature, it's about analyzing everything and learning to ask questions. I feel as if I've become much more in tune with the world around me, and I'm able to think more critically about all aspects of life, not just literature.
