This page presents an interview with Wyatt Reiter, Class of 2023, and his experiences as an English major at TCU. Read more below to find out how his degree has shaped his intellectual, personal, and professional development.
Q: Why did you choose to major in English and why do you think majoring in English is valuable?
A: I chose to major in English because I wanted to enhance my reading, writing, and communication skills in preparation for a legal career. I knew English was a subject I had enjoyed in high school and one in which these abilities would be consistently challenged.
Q: What did you gain from being an English major at TCU? What was your experience in the English Department at TCU?
A: By majoring in English at TCU, I was able to interact with some of the most important building blocks of literature and the English language. I felt as though the work challenged me to grow as a writer while developing a relationship with the language that has aided me both inside and outside of the classroom. My experience was very positive as I formed strong connections with multiple professors, ultimately electing to pursue Departmental Honors and write a thesis within the English Department during my senior year.
Q: How did your English major prepare you for your career goals as a recent graduate and alum?
A: My English major prepared me for the rigor and intensive writing I have undertaken in law school while also providing me with a unique perspective on the experiences I have had outside of the educational environment. As law school had been a goal of mine since high school, I felt assured that I was pursuing a major in which I would be well-prepared for the next steps on my path. Having remained in touch with a few of my English professors, I have also seen how the connections I made within the major can and have continued beyond my time at TCU.
Q: Where are you now? How did your English major help you get to where you are now?
A: Currently, I am attending New York Law School in New York City on a full-tuition scholarship. When I was working through the law school application process, my English background helped me craft the best application materials possible while also offering me a distinct viewpoint from my fellow applicants. In law school, I have found that the attention to detail and analytical strengths established through my English major allowed me to have a strong first year and be positioned for success as I move through the remainder of my legal education.
Q: Do you have any advice for upcoming TCU English graduates?
A: My advice to upcoming TCU English graduates would be: 1. Utilize the incredible TCU alumni network! Every alum I have met has been happy to help in any way they possibly can and I could not be more thankful for them. 2. Make the most of your time at TCU. It is a wonderful school where many memories can be made and there are endless opportunities to form friendships that will last well beyond your time on campus.