November Student of the Month

Meet Halle Mangrum, CHASS Student of the Month

Hometown: Greensboro, NC

Class:  Sophomore

Major:  English (Language, Writing & Rhetoric)

Minor: Art & Design

Sample Courses:

• Film and Literature
• The Theory and Practice of Acting
• Anthropology of the Middle East

Activities:

• Volunteer, Raleigh Boys Club
• Member, Habitat for Humanity
• Member, Companion Animal Club
• Member, the Screenwriters Group for Raleigh, NC
• Member, Students Advocating Vegetarian Eating
• Technician Staff Writer, 2012-13
• Cast member, 2013 Arts NC State production of The Heidi Chronicles

Honors:

• Caldwell Fellowship
• University Honors Program

Why did you select CHASS?

Writing was always my best and favorite subject.  CHASS made me fall in love with it all over again.  CHASS is oftentimes overlooked, but it is a very strong group of people – well-rounded, diverse, and introspective.

What have been your favorite courses so far?

I enjoyed Dr. Allen Stein’s American Literature class because by analyzing literature, he had us reflect on our own values and take our thinking to a new level. Dr. Robert Kochersberger has also been a great inspiration and role model. I took his Principles of News Article Writing course, and I’m taking an editing class with him in the spring.

What has changed from your first to second year?

There has been so much to get involved with here on campus, so I joined a lot of groups and was very active. I wanted to take every possible opportunity, even if I was unsure about my interests. As a sophomore, I have taken a step back and narrowed my focus a bit, expanding my love for English outside the classroom. I am now working on my first novel as well as on short films.

What advice would you give incoming students?

You often believe that the objective here is to get one degree, and follow one passion. But that is the wrong mindset. There are so many passions, so many paths you can take. Keep an open mind and expand your horizons.