March 5, 2024
Kaitlyn Cooper sees endless opportunities with the education she is gaining through Shawnee State University. The Franklin Furnace, Ohio native is a senior majoring in English & Humanities with a concentration in Communications and a specialization in journalism. She is also minoring in Deaf Studies.
“Through the First Gen program, I was convinced to take the Communications path,” Cooper said. “It is a perfect fit.”
The I Am First Gen program pairs first-generation college students with mentors among SSU faculty and staff, offering networking and special guidance to help them with a good start to their college career.
Choosing to attend SSU was easy once Cooper found out she received a merit award from the university offering her full-tuition scholarship.
“I earned the Shawnee Scholar Award,” Cooper said, acknowledging while that piqued her interest, she also found herself comfortable on SSU’s campus. “I stuck around because I really love the environment.”
While at SSU, Cooper has been able to be part of several organizations and campus services, finding assistance and guidance that gives her a full college experience.
“Shawnee allows me to form good relationships with my professors and other people in the department,” she said. “I would recommend this program for anyone interested.”
SSU’s Department of English & Humanities helps develop students' ability to think, read, write, and analyze the world around them. The department offers a four-year degree, as well as a master’s degree in Composition & Rhetoric. English & Humanities alumni find fulfilling careers in various industries ranging from educators to journalists.
“There are so many things I want to do with my degree,” Cooper said. “And with my major, I have several different options and opportunities.”
To learn more about English & Humanities at Shawnee State University, visit shawnee.edu/english.