A Lifelong Affinity for English, Appalachia, and Education by Sarah

A Lifelong Affinity for English, Appalachia, and Education by Sarah - August 2017 Scholarship Essay

After more than a decade, I can still vividly recall the evening that I became completely and utterly captivated by the English language. I was eight years old and sitting amid the dusty books books that cluttered my cousin’s bedroom floor, when I noticed a thick, leather-bound volume laying atop a stack of literary classics. Driven by childhood curiosity, I dusted it off with the palm of my hand and read the gold-flecked, old-fashioned lettering: The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. Although some of the words were unfamiliar to me when I first discovered the world’s greatest detective, something about them inspired me to continue reading until, at last, I finished the novel and moved on to another.

When my family learned of my voracious appetite for classic literature, they were both surprised and incredibly proud. Perhaps this is the reason my mother mentioned my literary prowess to a friend, who taught literature at Marshall University. Several times a week, he sent me favorite Shakespearean quotes and words of encouragement – encouragement which, years later, would inspire me to pursue my own career as a writer and literary scholar. Therefore, if I were a college professor – as I someday hope to be -- I would want to teach English Language and Literature.

Specifically, I would find it fulfilling as both a horror novelist and a proud West Virginian, to focus primarily on horror literature and Appalachian Studies. Even though these subjects may seem rather antithetic, I fervently believe that a unique sense of magic and mystery dwells in the dark recesses of the Appalachian Mountains – and in these heavy shadows, there exists an unexpected capacity for horror. After all, West Virginia has long-accumulated a rich yet incredibly disturbing history of monsters, murder, superstition, and the supernatural.

For this reason, I believe that abundant opportunity exists for those with an open mind and an interest in regional culture. Combining these subjects would undoubtedly allow for intellectual discussion about the monsters that haunt Appalachian history – whether those monsters take the form of the legendary Moth Man or the mining companies who have defined generations of West Virginian workers.

Above all, however, I want to share my love of language and literature, for these passions have faithfully guided me through life’s countless trials and tribulations. As a child, I was fortunate enough to study under many knowledgeable and passionate educators who dedicated a considerable amount of time and energy to nourishing young minds. These extraordinary individuals went far beyond their professional requirements by exhibiting an unwavering dedication to their students and communities. Ultimately, my goal is similar. I want my passion for literature to inspire other people, raise awareness to important issues, and encourage others on their personal and academic journeys.

In my opinion, there is no better way of expanding the mind and broadening the horizons than by analyzing literature. No matter the genre, era, or region, I wholeheartedly believe that books, poems, and stories hold immeasurable wisdom. Perhaps eventually, literary wisdom will acknowledge and resolve real-life issues, just as Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle revolutionized the meat-packing industry and Harriet Beecher Stowe’s controversial Uncle Tom’s Cabin strengthened the 19th century abolitionist movement. If the pen is truly mightier than the sword, perhaps we can someday win entire wars with intellect and effective communication.

Unfortunately, however, daydreaming in the summer sun or reading under an apple tree cannot magically erase the world’s suffering. Only in sharing and encouraging education can society move forward. Therefore, even if I am not physically marching on a battlefield, I want to fight for education by pursuing a career in academia and inspiring other people just as my English professors have inspired me.