Taylor Reehag is in the final year of our English Literature and Creative Writing BA(Hons). Read on to find out how they’re getting on and why Brighton is the right uni for them.
How I chose what to study
I have always been interested in storytelling, writing my own since I was about eight or nine, with the goal of eventually publishing. I am a strong believer that you should always do what you’re passionate about, and for me that was this.
This also led me to do English Literature, where I have always loved reading and analysing texts. It was my favourite subject at school, and I wanted to extend the joy I get it from it, and further learn the theory and critical elements behind analysis. I also wanted to broaden my scope of literature, branching out to genres and themes I wouldn’t have otherwise considered.
Why Brighton was the uni for me
I really liked the module choices at Brighton, with the optional focus on more contemporary, and queer literature. Most of what I’d studied prior to university had been classical, and thus the idea of analysing books that came out only a few years ago really appealed to me.
Brighton as a city also impacted my decision; I grew up by the seaside, and thus moving somewhere along the coast was a priority for me. Also, Brighton is a very LGBTQ+ city, which was definitely a bonus; it’s really helped with my individualism, and made me a more confident person.
The teaching and learning environment at Brighton
The environment is so welcoming. I always feel like I can voice my opinion, which has been great for establishing ideas and analysis. There are also so many people to get help from: my personal tutor has been amazing to talk to about my progress or any worries, while the careers team have helped me with my next steps after university.
I’ve also been able to book one-on-one sessions with the module leaders for extra support in assignments, and there’s always someone ready to help you if you need it. I’ve never felt left behind, or lost in what I’m doing here.
The course team are so friendly, and they always want to help you improve yourself. They don’t just teach you, but really engage you in the seminar discussions, and push you to come up with your own ideas and arguments. This is so beneficial for growth as a reader and a writer.
I am most enjoying
For English Literature, the range of texts we cover is absolutely a highlight; I’ve read so much more diverse literature compared to only a few years ago. It’s really opened my mind to the ways other people live and write.
Within Creative Writing, the workshops have been so useful. Sharing my writing, and reading other people’s has been so important to my growth as a writer and a critical reader. It’s also helped me understand what I want for my future, and how to get there.
If you’re thinking about studying my course
I think, most importantly, be honest with yourself about what you want to do, and let that lead your decision. And be prepared to read a lot — it’s really worth it!!
If I could my 17-year old self advice about going to university
Be confident about what you want to do right now, and don’t worry so much about cementing a path for your future. You don’t have to work it all out now, no one has, and that freedom down the line is the best bit. Just make sure what you do right now is what you want to do, and the rest will work out.
Find out more about studying creative writing and English literature at Brighton.
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