English Major Spotlight: Yliah Cefre

Year: Junior
Hometown: Born in Manila, Philippines, raised in Minnetonka, MN

Why did you choose to major in English?

My original plan was to pursue English as it had always been my favorite subject; so in my sophomore year when Computer Science didn't work out, I switched majors.

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

Being able to take two classes with Dr. Melissa Licht.

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

I'm also a Psychology major with a minor in Creative Writing. Because my Psychology major emphasizes research, my major in English plays a key role in writing research papers effectively and thinking critically. I feel like English only enhances my understanding and overall enjoyment of Psychology, and the skill sets gained from each major will most likely play an important role for me career-wise. 

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

Evicted by Mathew Desmond or A Midsummer Night's Dream by Shakespeare. Or Jane Eyre. Or Crime & Punishment. I like a lot of books that my English classes have assigned.

What English course would you recommend for majors? For non-majors who want to take an English class?

ENGL 3007 “Shakespeare.” A notable experience was having actors from the Guthrie reenact a scene from Hamlet.

What is your favorite thing about Pillsbury Hall?

I really love how quiet it can be here. It's the perfect place for me to study or read, especially the Undergraduate Study Lounge on floor three—when I can find seats. 

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

The fun activities people (who do not have to be an English major) can be a part of. For example, FUSE just held a book swap in room 412, and has more events to come.

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

I went to Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands to study the history of the premodern book. My biggest take away from that experience was that I should have brought a decent pair of walking shoes, rather than just my Doc Martens. I averaged about 25,000 steps a day, and though I was sore afterwards, walking the endless cobblestone streets was amazing and cathartic.