Carnegie Mellon's English department?

Hey everyone, I'm considering applying to Carnegie Mellon for my undergrad studies, but I'm particularly interested in their English program. Does anyone have any experience with the department or can give me some info on their strengths and opportunities? Thanks!

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) indeed has a solid English program - while the school is more widely known for its STEM programs, its College of Humanities and Social Sciences (Dietrich College) offers quality liberal arts education in humanities fields as well. The English department at CMU places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and critical thinking, which encourages students to explore connections across various fields.

One of the strengths of CMU's English program is the flexibility in its curriculum. You can choose to major in English with a focus in areas like Creative Writing, Professional Writing, or Literary & Cultural Studies, Gender Studies, or even Film & Visual Media, depending on your interests. Additionally, you can take elective courses across different disciplines to ensure a personalized, well-rounded educational experience.

CMU's English department also offers a range of opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. For example, they have a literary journal called The Oakland Review, founded in 1973, where you can submit your creative works for publication, as well as a variety of clubs and organizations related to writing, literature, and media. There's also the possibility of conducting research under the guidance of faculty members who are experts in their respective fields.

Throughout your studies at CMU, you'll be able to take advantage of various resources dedicated to enhancing your writing and critical thinking skills, including the Communication Support Center, which offers workshops and one-on-one tutoring sessions. Furthermore, their strong alumni network and dedicated career center will help you find internships, jobs, or grad school opportunities that align with your English degree.

In summary, even though CMU is more renowned for its STEM programs, the English department is an excellent fit for students who are interested in experiencing a well-rounded, interdisciplinary education within a smaller, more focused academic environment. With diverse concentrations, numerous extracurricular opportunities, and helpful resources at your disposal, CMU can undoubtedly provide a solid foundation for you to develop your skills and gain valuable experiences in the English field.

If you do end up applying to Carnegie Mellon and are looking for tips on how to maximize your chances of acceptance, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle their school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-carnegie-mellon-essays. After all, CMU is highly selective across the board, and the essays are often just the thing that distinguishes one talented applicant from another. Best of luck with your college search and future pursuits in English!