Helen Brower

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

I was finishing three years of living in Belfast without a route to a permanent visa or a stable job. Even with my MA, I was not a sought out candidate for teaching. I decided to apply to PhD programs, because I find the most stability in the structure of Academia. FSU offered a support system not only for the Phd, but for the harsh transition from living overseas.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

I study different forms of storytelling, currently in my 2nd year taking classes. People overlook creative writing as a devalued degree, and it can be, but I see it as the art of storytelling. Stories are connections that allow us to navigate the world we live in. Creative Writing studies not only the impact stories have, but also learning how to create impactful stories.

Career aspirations

My aspirations is to be a full time professor and to have published a book by the time I graduate with my PhD. I have attempted to work outside academia, but I find teaching the best work pattern.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

I applied to 5 graduate schools. I was denied by four. I was waitlisted, then denied by the last one. I let that drag me down. Two weeks later, the one I was waitlisted for, changed their mind and gave me a fully funded PhD. Believe in your accomplishments, work hard, but don't put your full self worth into academia. Set backs and failures will happen, they are part of learning a craft and are important for growing resilience. Be proud in your work. There is a time and place for everyone. Whether you are denied or accepted now or five years down the road.

Accomplishments during graduate career

I am the first person to teach screenwriting in the English Department and was recently invited to teach a masterclass at Douglas Anderson College of Arts in Jacksonville. These two accomplishments are the first time I recognized in myself the knowledge i have gained and can offer, from my many years of academia. This was not just sentimental, but a confirmation that not only could I teach, but I enjoyed it.