English Major Spotlight: Munira Adan
Year: Senior
Hometown: Brooklyn Park, MN
Why did you choose to major in English?
For as long as I can remember, I have always loved reading and writing. Becoming an English major has been one of the best decisions that I’ve made. I have always thought of being an English major as the combination of political science and history. Stories have always been a big part in the lives of people, and as an English major I have been attempting to better understand this. Being an English major allows for the possibility of pursuing different career paths, including, for me, academic medicine.
What has been your favorite part of your experience in the department?
The classes. Class discussions, whether happening online or in person, are always interesting. Thinking about any given text deeper than what’s on the surface is always encouraged.
What is something about the English department that many people don’t know?
The skills are transferable to other courses outside of the department, as well as any other academic interests you may have.
Are you pursuing any majors, minors, internships, or interests outside your English major?
I’m an Insect Science minor. I have found that this combination has allowed me to pursue a diverse variety of interests, while also enhancing my critical thinking and analytical skills. I’ve also interned at the Minnesota State Senate and this fall am working as a Research and Quality Improvement intern at Hennepin County Medical Center. These experiences have enhanced my study of English as well as my career plans by allowing me to experience writing and thinking in new ways and in different fields.
I spent this past summer as a Pre-Renal Initiative intern at Stanford’s School of Medicine. It was my first time in California, and it was an incredible experience overall. My biggest takeaway from this experience was that it solidified my interest in going to medical school in the near future. I also discovered how being an English major relates and blends so perfectly with science and medicine.
What is a favorite book you read for an English class?
Richard Wright’s Native Son.
What English course would you recommend for majors? For non-majors who want to take an English class?
For both majors and non-majors, I would recommend "Survey of American Literatures and Cultures II." I took the course with Lecturer Nyla Numan, and really enjoyed it. The course teaches you how to analyze different styles of writing and how to extract a deeper understanding from your readings.
What is your favorite thing about Pillsbury Hall?
The architecture and design. It’s also great that Pillsbury Hall isn’t too far from Walter Library, which makes for an effortless commute when trying to get in a study session during a busy day.
