Reginald Evans
School, Year: University of St. Thomas, Junior
Major: English
Cargill Access & Equity Scholarship
What are you doing right now?
I am completing my McNair Scholars summer research project. I decided to do research on contemporary African American satire. Once I picked this topic, I realized how well it fit my personality and interests. I have a somewhat witty personality and humor is a main aspect of satire. Also through my research, I have been better able to notice how authors can use their works to critique social and political ideologies.
What makes you excited about English?
Two of the main reasons I chose to be an English major were my enjoyment of reading and writing. However, as I became involved in the study of English language and literature, I understood how writing could be used to converse on various social or political issues.
What is your dream job?
My dream job has two parts to it; one part consists of me being a writer and the other would be as a social activist. Throughout my life, I kept black history and the struggles of the oppressed as small points of interest. It was not until college that I really found something that simply captivated me: a mix of English and black studies.
What would you say to younger students making college decisions and planning their futures?
I think that it is important to translate what you love into an actual job.
Who is the biggest influence in your life?
My mother. She made sure that I went on to college here in Minnesota. My brother and one of my sisters attend St. Thomas and I guess my mom just wanted to keep all the family in one place. I personally wanted to go out of state after living here for 18 years; but my mother used her persuasiveness to get me to stay. It was definitely the right choice for me.
"...translate what you love into an acutal job."
—Reginald D. Evans