If you're looking for a program that gives you flexibility to think with both literature and culture while growing your close reading skills, this might be the one for you!

As a transfer student in the ECS program, I felt nervous that I wouldn’t be able to make connections, starting at Mac in my second year. Instead, I now cite connections and support as two of the strongsuits of this program, where my peers and professors both helped me grow as a thinker and writer. If you’re looking for a program that gives you flexibility to think with both literature and culture while growing your close reading skills, this might be the one for you!

I feel immensely grateful to have achieved my BA and MA in the Department of English and Cultural Studies at McMaster. The network of friends, peers, and instructors established there have been formative to both my education in cultural critique and literary analysis as well as my growth as a thinker and leader. The critical skills honed in English and Cultural Studies classrooms, I can now confidently say, are ones I reach for most often.

My time at McMaster has been wonderful and has provided me with so many new experiences and connections.

What inspired you to select your program or area of study in Humanities at McMaster?

My time at McMaster has been wonderful and has provided me with so many new experiences and connections.

To think critically about the world is a skill far more valued in the workplace than you can imagine.

What did you find beneficial about your program at McMaster?

My program at McMaster taught me essential critical thinking and literacy skills. I was introduced to controversial topics in a sensitive way that allowed me to build my understanding rather than feel inadequate. I was taught about Indigenous and post-colonial issues which I am now able to share with students. Further, the professors promoted a lifelong love of learning and I find myself coming back to my university learning all the time.

What advice would you give to a current student who is thinking about career options?

Humanities is just the beginning! To think critically about the world is a skill far more valued in the workplace than you can imagine. Follow your passion and keep learning.

In your opinion, what is the value of a Humanities degree?

The Humanities degree is valuable because it offers students a connection to the world. Students learn critical thinking skills and become more aware of world issues. With this, students become better global citizens.