Student Laurie Morin’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and the power of an English Literature degree from Laurentian University. A Registered Practical Nurse, Morin faced an unexpected turn when a spinal cord injury forced her to rethink her career path. She says, “Instead of stepping away from healthcare, Laurentian gave me the opportunity to engage with it from the new angle of research. I wanted to explore more health-related research and have a fulfilling career as a health researcher and to be able to write and critically analyze scientific text.”
Knowing that communication skills would be essential in health research, upon graduation she transitioned into a master’s program in Interdisciplinary Health and now she’s tackling a PhD in Rural and Northern Health with a specialization in Health Policy while working as a part-time nurse at Health Sciences North.
The grounding that an English Literature degree gave Morin in critical analysis, writing, and research has already opened doors. She says, “I’ve been a graduate teaching assistant, an editor for the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University, and I firmly believe that an education rooted in communication, specifically the skills needed to perform research unlocks countless opportunities.” Morin is currently researching the impact of Scope of Practice on Nurse Practitioners providing primary care in rural and remote areas in Northern Ontario, and she hopes to dedicate her career to improving access to primary care in underserved communities.
Opportunities are endless
Laurentian University’s English Literature, Media, and Writing program is much more than reading classic novels, it’s about the power of storytelling. English Literature Professor Sylvia Hunt says, “Whether students dream of writing the next great novel, crafting a gripping screenplay, shaping video game narratives or diving into digital media storytelling, this program gives them the tools to bring their ideas to life.”
What sets Laurentian apart from similar programs at other universities is its flexibility. Professor Hunt says, “Laurentian offers students a wide range of streams to match their passions. They can explore media and science communication or delve into children’s literature, detective fiction, or early modern drama. They learn to write compelling stories and to deconstruct the art of reading and watching with a fresh, inquisitive eye.”
Students can pursue a specialization, major, minor, or 3-year concentration in the program. The degree is a gateway to endless creative and professional possibilities. Students learn how to write blogs, online articles, and screenplays. They graduate with a well-rounded degree that opens doors to journalism, marketing, advertising, public relations, and entertainment.
Found their calling
Third-year student Anwen Sinclair found their calling in Laurentian’s English Literature program. Sinclair says, “In the English program I found an uplifting community, especially in the creative writing classes. I’m hoping to specialize in the History of Literature.” This past summer Sinclair used their literary history knowledge while working at a museum in Manitoba. Sinclair says, “It was an amazing experience. I could combine my English literature and history knowledge to write articles for the museum’s website, conduct tours, and even curate an exhibit.”
Sinclair loved the peaceful campus and friendly people they met during their initial tour and was convinced that Laurentian was where they wanted to enroll. Immersed in the program, Sinclair is more certain than ever that studying English Literature at Laurentian was the right decision. Anwen Sinclair credits the professors for encouraging them to pursue a career that brings history to life.
A passion for teaching
Third-year English Literature student Simon Orser is currently studying to become a senior-level teacher. While working to complete his Bachelor of Education at Laurentian in the Concurrent Education program, he was pleasantly surprised by how much he learned about teaching by watching his English professors. Orser appreciates his professors’ warmth, knowledge, and guidance. He says, “They are some of the most influential educators I’ve ever had.”
Laurentian has a large student community but the English classes are small. An average class size is about 20 students. Orser says, “With small class sizes, every discussion feels personal, every student’s voice matters, and the professors not only know your name; they listen. If their office door is open, I can walk in and have a conversation.”
Fellow students Laurie Morin and Anwen Sinclair agree with Simon Orser that the English program’s faculty deserve a lot of the credit for students’ success. They encourage students to step out of their comfort zone and launch initiatives outside the classroom such as literary journals and book clubs.
Ready for the job market
When Professor Hunt meets students at the Ontario University Fair or the Open Houses, they often ask what they could do with a degree in English. She tells them, “You can do anything.”
Being a good communicator and critical thinker are skills that every industry craves. Employers in medicine, law, teaching, and tech value professionals who can problem-solve and communicate effectively. In a world where clear communication drives success and open doors, Laurentian graduates are ready to walk through those doors, no matter what career path they choose.
Discover the educational opportunities and career possibilities at Laurentian University’s English Literature, Media and Writing Program.