Oslo, Norway
Major: Finance

“I’m looking forward to developing my interests within finance and exploring where that may take me professionally, while continuing to develop as a tennis player. I’m proud of the results I’ve achieved in tennis over the years, including winning the Norwegian U19 National Championship in mixed doubles, but especially of the consistency and hard work behind them. I chose Adelphi because it was important to me to find a university where I could get a great education while also being a part of a strong tennis team. I also really liked the welcoming atmosphere at Adelphi, and it felt like the right fit for me both academically and athletically.”

Jackson Clark

Matthews, North Carolina
Major: Business, Three-Year Track
Honors College

“I hope to become a lawyer, but I chose my major because of my interest in business and the opportunity to earn that degree in the accelerated three-year track. I came to Adelphi because of its amazing location, strong faculty and opportunities like the Alternative Summer Break, which I was able to attend in August. I wanted to go to a school in or near a big city like New York, and the three-year program and other grants made that financially possible for me.”

Rebecca Golin

Brooklyn, New York
Major: Biochemistry with a minor in mathematics

“I am planning on a medical career, so I chose Adelphi for its supportive community, strong scientific opportunities and Early Assurance pathway to medical school that will allow me to grow as both a researcher and future physician. I have already conducted cancer research, where I discovered how mathematics and genomic data can help answer complex questions about disease and ultimately improve patient care.”

Zion Hines

Perth Amboy, New Jersey
Major: Dance

“I want to be able to dance professionally, and my ultimate goal is to own a dance studio so that I can teach choreography, inspiring dancers of all ages. I am grateful to have accomplished as much as I have so far in my dance career. I received a 2025 New Jersey Governor’s Award for Arts Education, an honor given to high school students, and I have had the opportunity to choreograph and perform a solo titled Inner Thoughts along with five other talented recipients. I am excited to be at Adelphi. When I auditioned for the dance program last winter, it felt like such a genuine and supportive community. I like the small classes, too, which will allow me to get to know my professors and be able to get any help or advice whenever I need it.”

Ashlyn Ho

La Crescenta, California
Major: Biology

“I want to become a dentist, and I chose Adelphi because of its Early Assurance 4+4 program, which gives me a direct path to the LECOM School of Dental Medicine. Adelphi also gives me the chance to work closely with my professors. I really enjoy playing the piano, too, and performed at Carnegie Hall as a first-prize winner in the Elite International Music Competition.”

Arina Kamenetska

Kharkiv, Ukraine
Major: Theatre
Honors College/Levermore Global Scholars Program

“My goal is to build a career as an actress in both theater and film. I also hope to create international theater projects that bring together actors and artists from different countries and cultures. I am especially proud to have received a Jonathan Larson Scholarship from Adelphi. I chose Adelphi because of the people. During my audition with Professor Margaret Lally and Professor Thomas Schrider, I immediately felt that I had found my community and my people. They made me feel that Adelphi was a place where I would truly belong, and I could see how much the professors genuinely care about their students and want to help them grow.”

Karina Kumar

South Richmond Hills, Queens, New York
Major: English, Scholar Teacher Education Program (STEP) – Adolescent Education
Levermore Global Scholars Program

“My goal is to become a teacher who can truly make an impact in students’ lives. I will strive to shape young minds in the lens of today’s society and always fight against injustices in education, making my classroom truly accessible to all students. I am particularly interested in finding ways to reach students beyond the textbooks. ´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s commitment to diversity, equity and global learning reflects the educator I aspire to become.”

Mia Leggio

Seaford, New York
Major: Sport Management
Honors College/

“Sports are really important to me, and I am proud to be following in the footsteps of my sister, Alexandra, who played lacrosse for Adelphi. I chose Adelphi because of its strong academics, women’s soccer program and close-knit community. I am also proud to be a certified EMT because that allows me to make a difference by helping others during very tough times.”

Anya Patel

New Hyde Park, New York
Major: Biology
Levermore Global Scholars Program

“My goal is to pursue a career in orthodontics and provide compassionate, culturally aware care to diverse communities. Majoring in biology and participating in the Levermore Global Scholars program will help me reach that goal, allowing me to combine my passion for science with my interest in people, cultures and global perspectives. As someone with both Indian and Kenyan heritage, I believe that understanding and respecting different backgrounds is essential to connecting with others and providing compassionate healthcare. I chose Adelphi because of its close-knit community and the opportunity to pursue my goals in the healthcare field in an environment where I feel supported and encouraged to grow.”

Michael Secko

Centerport, New York
Majors: Environmental Science and History with Certificate in Museum Studies
Honors College

“By majoring in two fields while earning a certificate in another, I am hoping to build a career that brings all of those worlds together. Whether it is working at a museum, a national park or an environmental agency, my goal is to find ways to connect our natural environment with human history. I have always been fascinated by how the past and the environment shape each other. I want to find innovative ways to preserve both our history and our planet. Choosing Adelphi was an easy decision for me. From the moment I stepped on campus, it just felt right. It is also extra special because my grandparents earned both their undergraduate and master’s degrees here, so it feels like home in more ways than one.”

Justin Smiley-Carter

Jamaica, Queens, New York
Major: Ethics and Public Policy
Honors College/Levermore Global Scholars Program

“I served as secretary-general at a Model UN conference that created a welcoming outlet for students across South Queens and Long Island to explore diplomacy. I plan to attend law school, with the goal of eventually using my experience to create opportunities for younger students in marginalized communities and inspire them to pursue a career in law. I chose Adelphi because it’s where I can really challenge myself academically, and because the Honors College and Levermore Global Scholars program allow me to explore my interests beyond the classroom while preparing me to reach my goals.”

Louis Spillane

Auckland, New Zealand
Major: Finance

“My goal is to build a career in finance while continuing to pursue my passion for football. Football has been a huge part of my life. I was honored to represent New Zealand as a member of the U17 National Team that qualified for the U17 World Cup. Wearing the New Zealand fern, singing the national anthem and seeing my family in the stands made it an experience I’ll never forget. It was a moment where years of hard work and sacrifice came together. I look forward to competing at Adelphi while building a strong foundation for my future in finance. I hope to combine the discipline, leadership and competitive mindset I have developed through football with my passion for finance and create a successful career that allows me to pursue both interests.”

Wyatt Yim

Fresh Meadows, Queens, New York
Major: Nursing

“I want to be working as a traveling nurse to explore the world more, then later on become a certified registered nurse anesthetist. I would like to visit all 50 states and, as a proud Eagle Scout, all the national parks. I chose Adelphi for its small and beautiful campus, and I began my Adelphi experience by joining the First-Year Community Action Program (FCAP). It gave me the opportunity to do some volunteer work before the start of classes while meeting new people and helping the community.”

The post Meet the Class of 2030! appeared first on ÇŃ×ÓĘÓƵ.

They range in age from 20 to 71 years old, came to Adelphi for graduate study from 20 states and 34 countries beyond our borders, and earned master’s and doctoral degrees in 63 different programs. They are the 941 members of ´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s graduate Class of 2026.

With 90 different graduate degree and certificate programs, Adelphi is committed to growing its number of offerings to meet the demands of today’s rapidly changing economy. This summer, the University is opening the doors of its new in New York City with a range of flexible programs for working adults.

The Four Most Popular Graduate Programs

The Master of Social Work program offered by ´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s School of Social Work often graduates the largest group of master’s degree recipients. This year was no different, as 183 students received their diplomas at the graduate Commencement ceremony on May 21.

The 67 graduates of the 4+1 Scholar Teacher Education Program (STEP), a five-year combined bachelor’s and master’s degree program that saves students a year of time and tuition, made up the second-largest group. The program, from the Ruth S. Ammon School of Education and Health Sciences, offers tracks in childhood, adolescent, and TESOL education.

The Robert B. Willumstad School of Business graduated the third- and fourth-largest groups of graduates. Sixty-two students earned their MBA this year, while 50 received their MS in Business Analytics.

´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s Gordon F. Derner School of Psychology—the first university-based professional school of psychology—graduated the largest group of doctoral students, 23 in all. Sixteen students received their PhD in clinical psychology, and seven earned their PsyDs in school psychology.

A Global Group of Graduates

Students from 34 countries outside the United States came to Adelphi for their graduate education. The largest group, by far, is from India, with 117 graduates. The 11 students from Vietnam were the second largest group, followed by the 10 graduates from China. The 191 international students in the Class of 2026 also included scholars from as far away as Guyana, Cameroon, Egypt, Turkey, Georgia, Nepal, the Philippines, and Taiwan.

Stateside, the bulk of graduates are from New York and nearby New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. Overall, the class included students from 20 states.

Strong U.S. News & World Report Rankings for Graduate Programs

The quality and reputation of Adelphi graduate programs were among the main draws for this year’s graduates. Adelphi programs are annually ranked by . Seven Adelphi programs are included in this year’s list:

• Best Nursing School: ˛Ń˛ą˛őłŮ±đ°ů’s
• Best Nursing School: Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Best Public Health School
• Best Psychology School
• Best Clinical Psychology Doctorate Programs
• Best School for Social Work
• Best Speech-Language Pathology Program
• Best Part-Time MBA Program

“These latest rankings from U.S. News & World Report are a testament to the exceptional caliber of our faculty, the dedication of our students and the profound impact our alumni are making in healthcare and clinical settings,” said Susan Dinan, PhD, ´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s interim provost. “The dramatic rise in our health program rankings, which are driven by peer assessment, demonstrates that our commitment to academic innovation and clinical excellence is recognized by our academic peers across the country.”

Adelphi Grad Programs Arrive in Manhattan

As early as next year, Adelphi will begin graduating students who earn their graduate degrees in New York City at the University’s new . A state-of-the-art, three-floor learning space located in the heart of Midtown at the corner of Fifth Avenue and 44th Street, the center will offer an initial group of eight graduate programs in in-demand career areas. Students will be able to choose from master’s degree programs in artificial intelligence and machine learning, education, general psychology/human resource concentration, business administration (Flex MBA), social work, and creative writing, as well as doctoral programs in learning sciences and global higher education leadership. Students can also earn graduate certificates in business analytics and human resource management at the Manhattan Center; the academic credits earned are transferable to our master’s degree programs.

All programs will feature flexible schedules and evening classes to accommodate working adults. The University also introduced a special $10,000 Manhattan Advantage Award to provide financial support for students in the inaugural cohort to ensure they have the resources to pursue graduate studies that will help them become leaders of the modern workforce.

The expansion to Manhattan, the launch of new master’s degree and doctoral programs, and the accomplishments and vitality of the graduate Class of 2026 together reflect Adelphi’s strategic commitment to graduate education and to the University’s growing strength in advanced studies.

The post With Graduate Degrees in Hand, the Class of 2026 Sets Out to Make a Difference appeared first on ÇŃ×ÓĘÓƵ.

From launching a new trilogy set in the 1950s, to bringing Practical Magic to Broadway with help from a musical icon, Hoffman is proving that her storytelling is as potent as ever.

A Return to Her Roots

Founded by Hoffman herself two years ago, the Writers & Readers Festival returns to ´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s Garden City campus from April 15–17. The event has become a staple of the New York literary scene, and this year’s lineup is no exception.

Hoffman will headline a keynote conversation with fellow No. 1 New York Times bestselling author Jodi Picoult, focusing on the resilience of storytelling in an era of increasing book bans. She is also set to appear in a discussion of the writer-editor relationship alongside novelist Jessica Knoll and Scribner Books publisher Marysue Rucci.

Practical Magic 2, the Movie Sequel 27 Years in the Making

The phrase “midnight margaritas” is trending once again. Production has officially moved into the final stages for Practical Magic 2, scheduled to hit theaters nationwide on September 11. The film serves as a generational bridge, reuniting the iconic “aunts”—Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest—with stars Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman. While the plot remains largely under wraps, it is confirmed to be inspired by Hoffman’s 2021 novel, The Book of Magic. Newcomers like Joey King, Game of Thrones star Maisie Williams and The Hobbit trilogy star Lee Pace join the coven, promising a sequel that explores the legacy of the Owens curse for a new era.

Published in 1995, Practical Magic was the basis for the 1998 film adaptation starring Kidman and Bullock as sisters descended from a long line of witches. The film became a cult classic, a supernatural drama blending romance with a story of sisterly bonds. The book went on to spawn a media franchise of the same name, which in addition to the film includes a 2004 television pilot (Sudbury), two prequels—2017’s The Rules of Magic and 2020’s Magic Lessons—and a sequel, 2021’s The Book of Magic.

From Page to Stage: The Practical Magic Musical

The most surprising development in the Hoffman universe is the leap to the theater. A stage musical adaptation of Practical Magic is currently in development. In a powerhouse collaboration, Hoffman is writing a book/script for the stage with playwright Peter Duchan (Dogfight), while 10-time Grammy winner Norah Jones will provide the music and lyrics in a collaboration with Grammy-nominated record producer Gregg Wattenberg. The project marks the first stage musical by Jones.

“This story of love and sisterhood is meant for the theater. Music is the heart and soul of Practical Magic,” Hoffman said of the project. “You can hear it as you read the book, even though it ľ±˛ő˛Ô’t there. Now you will finally hear the story as I always imagined it. You will hear magic.”

Celebrating a Different Kind of Magic

Amid the witches and Broadway lights, Hoffman has also found time for a more personal project. She recently edited a new anthology titled The Best Dog in the World: Essays on Love.

The collection features 14 celebrated authors—including Isabel Allende, Amy Tan, Roxane Gay and Bonnie Garmus—sharing stories of the canine companions that changed their lives. Hoffman will discuss the collection at the April festival, offering a “love letter” to the loyal animal friends who teach us about empathy and unconditional love.

A New Era of Witchcraft

Hoffman is already inviting readers back into the world of the supernatural. Her latest novel, The Witches of Cambridge, is slated for release on September 8.

The book, which kick-starts a new trilogy, was inspired by Hoffman’s own recent academic pursuits. Set on a college campus in the 1950s, the story follows two students, Ava and Lauren, who find refuge from the shadows of McCarthyism within a secret society of witches. Early praise from authors like Leigh Bardugo describes the work as “rich with history, heartbreak, and magic.”

“I went back to school and what began as my term paper ended up as a novel about witches, love, magic, sorrow, betrayal, sisterhood and best friends,” Hoffman said.

The post A Magical Year for Alice Hoffman ’73, ’02 (Hon.) appeared first on ÇŃ×ÓĘÓƵ.

Louise Geddes, PhD, an expert on Shakespearean drama and performance, teaches English in the College of Arts and Sciences.

´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s resident Shakespeare expert, Louise Geddes, PhD, associate dean for student success strategic initiatives, who teaches English in the College of Arts and Sciences, notes that this 2025 adaptation of the novel spins a yarn of what little is known about William Shakespeare’s family life and focuses on his marriage to Anne/Agnes Hathaway. It also suggests that his tragedy Hamlet was inspired by the death of their real son, Hamnet, in 1596.

According to Dr. Geddes, “The screenplay is created from a fascination with all that ľ±˛ő˛Ô’t known about Shakespeare’s life—and this has prompted numerous movies and books before this.” Spoilers ahead.

´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s Shakespeare Expert Weighs In

Dr. Geddes, whose research interests include Shakespeare in performance and the ways his work is interpreted in modern life, shares what she believes has earned Hamnet the Oscar accolades.

Q: What is known about Anne Hathaway?

A: We know that Anne was older than Shakespeare and that she was likely pregnant when they married. She had her garden and she was known for herbal remedies. I think O’Farrell’s book Hamnet comes from a response to the casual and institutional sexism in the idea that if she was older and pregnant, he must have been forced into it—that he probably didn’t like her and went to London to escape her.

Q: What do we know about her life with Shakespeare?

A: The book addresses that and the fact that Stratford might have felt too small for him. We do know he ended up going back to Anne and living out his retirement with her. The book, more than the movie, really digs into what was left behind. To me, the book is a portrait of a marriage from a woman’s perspective. The husband wanted to find his path elsewhere, but they were living a small-town life. She had her children; she made sacrifices for him to have his life. I think the book really beautifully engages in this idea and does a lot to undo the narrative that he must have hated his wife.

Hamnet the Film Versus Hamnet the Book

Q: What do you think the buzz about the movie stems from?

A: That it’s the story that inspired Hamlet. But it shifts the focus away from the wife onto Shakespeare and why he wrote the play. I really enjoyed it, but it’s different from the book where he’s only known as “the Latin tutor” and “the husband.” Agnes doesn’t really understand that he’s a successful playwright.

In the book, when she goes to London and realizes that he’s incredibly famous, it’s such a shock to her, not because of the grief for their son, but because she’s been married to this man for so long, and there’s this whole part of his life that she doesn’t know. The book works really hard to tell their story. The movie does the exact opposite. It makes it about Shakespeare, and Hamlet is the product. It makes the suffering of losing Hamnet worthwhile because the art happens. That’s a very different narrative.

Q: And yet the director is a woman.

A: Yes. Honestly, I was a little disappointed that it focused so much on Shakespeare, because Agnes is such a rich character in the book. The movie shows us moments of Shakespeare crying alone over the death of his son. The book doesn’t care whether or not he’s crying. The book cares about what he’s doing for his family, for his marriage and for her. The movie lets him off the hook a little bit for not taking care of his marriage. It says he’s feeling his grief in his own way and his wife may need to understand that. It asks us to ask more of her.

I know many women, as wives and mothers, often put our feelings aside to take care of others, and the book says it doesn’t have to be that way. So I was a little surprised that a woman would take that perspective.

The Study of Shakespeare Today at Adelphi

Q: As an expert on Shakespeare, what did you enjoy most about the movie?

A: Visually, it was absolutely stunning. The depiction of the Globe Playhouse was gorgeous and the way they presented Hamlet was really beautiful. And there were these very striking moments, like after the death of their child where Agnes is pushing Shakespeare away. He just grabs her and holds her. I think it really conveys the depth of their love for one another and of their loss. I do think it did a lovely job of presenting Shakespeare the man.

But the movie did something the book didn’t want to do. While the book didn’t want to tell Shakespeare’s story, the movie wanted to tell both of their stories. I don’t think that was necessarily a bad thing. It’s also natural, because I don’t think you’re going to sell a movie worldwide about a woman most people have never heard of and who is Shakespeare-adjacent. It made for a really powerful movie.

Q: Why is there a fascination with what motivated William Shakespeare?

A: I think we all like the idea of a romantic genius.

Shakespeare continues to be popular because we adapt and modernize him constantly. When I teach Shakespeare in my English classes students always ask, “But what is it about?” I tell them it’s about anything you want it to be. It frustrates them, but I’ve been teaching for a while, and you see different generations of students respond very differently to the plays.

Hamlet, to a lot of people, isn’t a romantic hero. I’ve had students who thought he was a brat. One of the reasons we love Shakespeare is that we can use him to talk about contemporary issues. But there’s also this real desire from so many people who ask: What did he want me to get from it? The answer is probably that he didn’t care. He wanted to sell tickets.

But it’s a lot of fun to teach that way, to loosen up from the idea that there is a correct way of reading Shakespeare.

There’s a famous line from Hamlet when he’s talking to the actors, and he says, “to hold, as ’twere, the mirror up to nature.” That’s arguably what all of Shakespeare’s plays do: They reflect back at us what we want to see in that particular moment.

We’re constantly reinventing him, and we probably always will.

The post To Win or Not to Win: ´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s Shakespeare Expert Reviews the Oscar-Nominated Film “Hamnet” appeared first on ÇŃ×ÓĘÓƵ.

As technology continues to connect diverse populations, the ability to analyze texts, understand different perspectives and convey ideas becomes increasingly essential. English majors are uniquely prepared to answer these challenges. Their expertise allows them to address modern challenges by fostering critical thinking, effective communication and cultural awareness. Additionally, their deep engagement with language drives innovation in media and education, making them vital contributors to a more informed and connected world.

´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s English program helps students sharpen their communication skills through literary analysis and academic study. Its curriculum equips alumni with the skill set to analyze complex information, craft persuasive arguments and adapt to a rapidly changing world. “Majoring in English is great practice for professions that require you to read and process information quickly (law, medicine), to encapsulate information in a direct and appealing way (marketing, advertising), and analyze and present information in a convincing and supported manner,” said Department of English professor and interim chair Lahney Preston-Matto,

Here are some of the career paths our Adelphi alumni have taken with this degree.

Surround Yourself With Literature at Public Libraries

Caitlin Lenahan ’18

Caitlin Lenahan ’18 had always been a bookish kid. She spent a lot of time at her local library on Long Island, Franklin Square Public Library, devouring novels by different authors. Having known Lenahan as a child and her passion for reading, the Franklin Square librarians suggested that she become a page when she was old enough. And so she did, working throughout high school, maintaining the physical order and appearance of the library.

It was Lenahan’s love for books that drove her to pursue an undergraduate degree in English. She took her literary passions to Adelphi, where she was accepted into the Honors College. “I was able to get a solid education from Adelphi at a great price, thanks to the scholarships I received,” she said. “Plus, the campus is gorgeous and has a great atmosphere. I also had the benefit of living within walking distance of campus, which made commuting a breeze.”

Lenahan took a broad range of courses at Adelphi, learning how to interpret text and evaluate information while sharpening her communication abilities in both writing and speech. Two of her favorite classes were Medieval Literature, which covered Viking sagas, and a course on the famous English writer and poet Geoffrey Chaucer. Both classes were taught by Dr. Preston-Matto. To this day, seven years after graduation, Lenahan thinks often about those classes and how much they meant to her. “Students often think that an English degree is just reading books and learning how to structure an argument for writing a paper, and while that’s still part of it, I think that undersells how fun the whole process is,” she said. “It’s a joy to be able to read and discuss as a group and, in the process, you’re exposed to so many different experiences and worldviews. You’re building critical thinking skills and having a blast doing so!”

Lenahan obtained her BA in English, along with a minor in art history. Throughout her time at Adelphi, she continued to work as a page at the Franklin Square Public Library. “It did not dawn on me that I could work at a library full time until I looked around at my colleagues and put the pieces together,” she said. “Once I showed interest in that track, the librarians on staff all gave me the guidance I needed to pursue librarianship as a career.”

She went on to pursue a master’s degree in library science at Queens College in New York City. Once she started library school, Lenahan began working as a librarian trainee at Franklin Square during the summer of 2019. She graduated from Queens College in 2022.

Since 2023, Lenahan has worked as a digital resources specialist in the Nassau Library System, serving as the point of contact for the 54 public libraries in Nassau County and their vendors. She coordinates database orders, which involves communicating with vendors for pricing, reading contracts, preparing information for the libraries, scheduling and holding webinars and other trainings, and providing tech support.

Librarianship is just one route to go with an English degree. One of Lenahan’s friends from Dr. Preston-Matto’s Vikings class, Nicole Restrepo, MFA ’22, pursued the creative writing track. She now works as adjunct faculty in creative writing at Adelphi. Whether it’s creative writing or English literature, Lenahan feels that English majors are more necessary than ever. “I think, in this day and age, it’s important to have a strong foundation in literacy and to cultivate the ability to interpret the worth of information,” she said. “With the influx of disinformation on the Web, it’s become even more crucial to be able to vet your sources and understand the context of what you’re seeing. And, with increasing amounts of our life touched by online communication, being able to write clearly and effectively is an ever more important skill to have. A degree in English sets you up with all the skills you need to thrive.”

Share Your Passion of Books Through Teaching

Ariyana Felician ’20, MA ’21

Ariyana Felician ’20, MA ’21, has a similar story to Caitlin Lenahan. She always loved reading and storytelling and was constantly in the library, immersing herself in different worlds and novels. She knew that her professional career had to involve books in some way. But first, she had to figure out college.

She wanted to stay close to her home in Long Island, which drew her to Adelphi. She interviewed for ´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s Honors College with its associate dean for academic affairs, Craig Carson, PhD, who left an impact on the aspiring undergrad. “He spoke so highly of the English professors,” she said. “I felt like I’d be with like-minded individuals who shared my passion for storytelling and literature. I thought to myself, these are the kinds of conversations I want to be having.”

She enrolled in the Honors College and, since she enjoyed reading more than writing, chose English literature over creative writing as the concentration for her undergraduate studies. Felician also always had an interest in teaching. As a child, she would pretend that her little sister was her student and would instruct her during their playtime. “I wanted to work with kids and help people,” she said. “My deep interest in literature, and that desire to help people, fortified my interest in teaching. Teaching literature to kids encompassed all my goals and passions.”

Felician graduated in 2020 with her BA in English literature. Because she pursued ´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s accelerated five-year STEP program, she was able to graduate in 2021 with her master’s degree in adolescent education. As part of the STEP program, she did a Bellmore-Merrick [Central High School District] internship, a student teaching internship that fifth-year students are required to take in their fall term.

Upon graduation, Felician’s first job was as an English teacher at Bay Shore High School on Long Island. And she never left. She’s now working as a tenured English teacher, teaching AP English language and composition, African-American literature, and ninth-grade honors English. In her teaching, she continues to use some of the resources and discussions from her time at Adelphi, modifying them for her own student population.” I felt like I was in a much better position than my peers because of my education at Adelphi,” she said. “The Step program and the Bellmore-Merrick internship set me apart from other applicants, giving me a lot of hands-on experience in the classroom. All of that informed how I work with my own students and teach them.”

While Felician has excelled in teaching, many of her peers and friends with English majors have pursued other career paths. Some work in publishing, while others work as copywriters and freelance writers. Another creates communications for a nonprofit organization. There are many career paths that an English major can take, and Felician agrees that English majors are as essential as ever. “The foundation of an English major ľ±˛ő˛Ô’t just stories, but perspectives,” she explained. “It’s about building your own perspective and understanding other perspectives. We talk so much in society about critical thinking and media literacy, and so much of that starts with books. English is an invaluable study.”

The post What Can You Do With a Degree in English? Alumni Showcase the Possibilities Stemming from a Love for Lit appeared first on ÇŃ×ÓĘÓƵ.

We live in an era of unprecedented access to information and in these moments of extraordinary change, reading books or diving into history seem at best, quaintly out of date, or at worst, an indulgence that cannot create the same opportunity that we see in other growing fields like computer science or marketing. As someone who works in higher education, I can tell you that there is always talk about the demise of the humanities. In moments of technological innovation, these conversations intensify, and yet, these are the points in history that need the humanities the most.

The humanities—the study of literature, language, history or philosophy—offer opportunities to think about why our world is the way it is, and give its students the tools to meet the changes we face. , but not always obvious, even as humanities students find their paths in education, law, business, management and the not-for-profit sector. The humanities invest in processes—developing critical thinking skills, intellectual creativity and flexibility. Put simply, humanities students know how to learn. At Adelphi, we have seen our graduates go on to become published authors, teachers, lawyers and technological innovators, finding jobs and building careers in unexpected and thrillingly varied fields. To follow the humanities is to pursue a passion, but that doesn’t mean that those of us who do so have to choose between that and a satisfying and lucrative career. We consider ourselves the lucky ones—more often than not, we can have both.

Here’s the thing about the humanities: The path ahead ľ±˛ő˛Ô’t always clear. We take a road map, and set out on a path, perhaps stopping to listen to the stories or histories that will guide us on our path, and keep moving forward. As we study the humanities, building vast reserves of intellectual curiosity, empathy and problem-solving skills, we are moving toward jobs that we haven’t yet realized exist—or perhaps even jobs that don’t yet exist. We move with creativity and an entrepreneurial spirit that will serve us well in the world—not only as an employee, or (better yet) a boss, but as a human being, navigating the rapidly changing world with a sense of history, a sense of compassion and a sense of purpose. We understand how history and culture have brought us to this point in time, and we have the ability to imagine what comes next. We are, as Shakespeare put it, makers of manners.

In a world where technology insists that answers can be given instantly, and the world can feel increasingly unsettled, it can be hard to invest in a long-term strategy that can only promise to take you to places you are willing to go. But the outcomes are always worth it.

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Sidney Boquiren, PhD, professor in the Department of Music at ÇŃ×ÓĘÓƵ, set out to explore this idea. In his new work, “,” written for Hub New Music, instead of setting poems to be sung in performance, he created a piece that consists of instrumental reflections, responses and “sonic paintings” of poetry by Jan-Henry Gray, assistant professor in the Department of English and faculty member in the MFA in Creative Writing program, and former faculty member . Both are award-winning published poets.

“Three Meditations” continues Dr. Boquiren’s practice of engaging with the creative work of ÇŃ×ÓĘÓƵ colleagues and friends. “I was very much interested in continuing to collaborate with my Adelphi colleagues and thought of reaching out to Maya and Jan-Henry about using their poems to write this piece for Hub New Music,” he said. “The three of us had worked together in the fall of 2023 for the Fall Arts Festival, with live performances of music and readings of poems by our students—so I thought of this as an opportunity for us to collaborate and for me to explore how words and music can interact in a purely instrumental context.”

Expressing the Meaning of Home Through Music

The poems at the heart of this piece, “Missing Document” by Gray (from his book , published by BOA Editions in 2019) and “” and “Everyday” by Marshall, dwell on meanings of family and home, the anxiety of displacement, and love and hope. The three sections of the piece are performed by a mixed quartet of flute, clarinet, violin and cello without break, creating a quasi narrative progression from one to the next. When describing the piece as a “sonic painting,” Dr. Boquiren explained that this conveys the idea of music as visual ˛ą°ůłŮ—p˛ąľ±˛ÔłŮľ±˛Ô˛µ˛ő—depicted through sound—s´Ç˛Ôľ±ł¦â€”that unfolds through time. Similarly, he says the timbre is referred to as the “color” of sounds.

Using this multisensory approach to composition, Dr. Boquiren said he tried to evoke the complexities of family life and what “home” means in this music. “There are moments that are nervous and anxious, as well as moments of deep sadness, and ultimately acceptance.”

Dr. Boquiren grew up in the Philippines and Saudi Arabia, spending most of his adult life in the United States. His works are often informed, influenced and shaped by contemporary social justice issues, his Catholic faith and his Philippine identity. Most recently, his music has been premiered by the Ciompi Quartet (Durham, North Carolina) and NOISE (La Jolla, California), and upcoming projects include a new work for the Grammy-nominated Palaver Strings. A MacDowell Fellow, Dr. Boquiren teaches courses in music theory and composition, and directs the Improvisation Ensemble at ÇŃ×ÓĘÓƵ, where he served in the past as chair of the Department of Music. He sings with The Ignatian Schola as well as the choir of The Church of St. Francis Xavier in Manhattan in New York City.

“Tremendous thanks to Hub New Music for how they made this piece come to life with such conviction,” Dr. Boquiren added. “It was a deeply meaningful piece to me and it couldn’t have been in better hands. And heartfelt gratitude to Maya and Jan-Henry for allowing me to respond to their work.”

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Their conversation on April 4 will be moderated by award-winning author and playwright and host of the hit podcast You Are What You Read. Audiences will also get a special sneak peek at Parker’s powerful new project, The Librarians, a documentary she executive-produced.

Celebrating the Pleasures of Reading and Writing

The Adelphi 2025 Writers & Readers Festival, founded by Adelphi alumna and New York Times bestselling novelist will celebrate the pleasures of reading and writing with students, teachers, librarians, emerging writers and the local community. Attendees can get an inside look at the art of writing and the business of publishing, connect with fellow book lovers, and have the chance to meet and hear from prominent authors, including Hoffman, Trigiani, Alvin Hall, Ann Leary, Elinor Lipman, Lise Olsen, Jennifer Baker, Matthew Klam, Lisa Genova, Lee Woodruff, Laura Zigman, and more.

“Stories connect us. Whether on the page, the stage or the screen, they shape our understanding of the world, ignite our imaginations and deepen our empathy,” said Hoffman, author of more than 40 works of fiction, including . “As we gather to listen, reflect and celebrate the written word, I hope festival attendees will discover new ideas, fresh inspiration and a renewed love for literature.”

See the Full Schedule of Events and Registration Information

The Adelphi Writers & Readers Festival will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on April 4, and 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on April 5, at the University’s Garden City campus. The two-day event will include panels and keynotes with bestselling authors, and professional development workshops with literary agents, book editors, writing coaches and Adelphi professors from the MFA in Creative Writing program, as well as conversations with writers and publishing insiders about the art and business of publishing.

Registration for the event is limited and is now open. and see the full schedule of events.

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He has successfully taught and performed poetry professionally for nearly 20 years in schools and colleges and even at the 2024 Summer Olympics. “Recently, I was one of eight poets selected to represent the United States at the 2024 Cultural Olympiad in Paris, France, as part of the Olympics,” he reported. “I performed a poem at the closing ceremony for the Paralympics to signify the passing of the torch from Paris to Los Angeles, which will host the 2028 Summer Olympics.”

Mabrey said he’d like to further his skills—and possibly become a professor someday—by continuing his education at Adelphi. He had already earned some credits for his military experience in the Los Angeles Community College District. This year, he is enrolled as a major focusing on social sciences in the Adelphi University College of Professional and Continuing Studies (CPCS). He expects to graduate in 2025 and continue at Adelphi to earn his Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing.

Mabrey said the reduced tuition for was a key factor for him when choosing Adelphi. “A reduced price is a tremendous help in terms of life expenses and budget,” he said. “As an adult with expenses, an enticing portion of school selection is a great program combined with a school that offers more assistance that does not equal large loans. I appreciate what Adelphi has to offer in its undergraduate and graduate studies programs.”

Intentional Service to Military and Veteran Students

´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s abiding commitment to veteran and military students is regularly recognized with awards and recognitions. Most recently, the University earned a , as well as a 2024–2025 Colleges of Distinction Military Support designation. Adelphi has also been named a Yellow Ribbon School for supporting military and veteran students throughout their academic journey.

“We don’t take these designations lightly,” said Shawana Singletary, Adelphi’s assistant vice president and chief enrollment officer. “They mean we’re making an effort to recognize the sacrifice vets have given to this country and provide them with the support they need where it matters.”

Sandra Castro, PhD, associate dean of the College of Professional and Continuing Studies, is enthusiastic about newly reduced tuition rates for military and veteran students enrolled in for

“We’ve been intentional about serving our vets,” she said. According to her, these students—and their dependents and spouses—can enroll in a College of Professional and Continuing Studies online program at a cost of $250 per credit. “This means they can complete their degrees at a fraction of the price.”

While GI benefits can often be exhausted in the pursuit of a degree, this new rate offers students a continued affordable pathway, with online flexibility, to degree completion. And, through the American Council on Education, ´ˇ»ĺ±đ±ô±čłóľ±â€™s veterans and military students can also often receive academic credit for their military experience.

An On-Campus Home

According to Singletary, the veteran and military students currently enrolled in College of Professional and Continuing Studies online programs can access all Adelphi has to offer, from in-person classes to resources such as the Center for Academic Support and Enrichment.

The Student Veteran Task Force, which includes the Office of Alumni Relations, arranges events that celebrate and acknowledge these students’ service. “We invite alumni veterans to be speakers and connect with current students,” Dr. Castro noted.

Located within the central College of Professional and Continuing Studies office in Levermore Hall, the Veterans Lounge, with its computers, flat-screen TV for virtual meetings, and comfortable area for studying and relaxing, is not just an information hub for vets—it’s a second home.

Dr. Castro added, “Access to University resources, a dedicated campus space, and—importantly—the new reduced tuition through CPCS’ online programs are mission-critical ways in which Adelphi serves its military and veteran students.”

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