Dylan-Jay Monk

Books have always felt like home to me. I grew up surrounded by books, and I loved the way literature could transport me into different worlds and help me understand people better. English opens up multiple professional pathways I never would have considered. I did science at A level in a panic that an English Degree was ‘useless’. I’m glad I followed my heart.

Edge Hill felt welcoming from the very first open day. The campus itself is beautiful – such a calm, green atmosphere. It really suits someone like me who likes to sit and read between classes. The English department seemed genuinely supportive.

There’s a good mix of classical and contemporary literature on the course. I’ve loved the modules that let me explore texts I would never have picked up myself, such as Close Range by Annie Proulx in Contemporary American Literature, and Midnight by Jacqueline Wilson in Children’s Literature. Discovering writers like Annie Proulx and John Webster has really broadened the way I think about different genres. I spend a lot of time reading fiction for myself as well as for the course, especially romance and fantasy novels.

My favourite author – at the moment – would have to be Rick Riordan. His Percy Jackson series was a big part of my childhood and I’m glad to be rereading it now as a semi-adult.

Managing the amount of reading alongside other commitments is a challenge. I tackled it by developing a weekly routine that includes my reading, the gym and general ‘me’ time. Annotating as I go and discussing readings with my flatmate has helped a lot, too.

My lecturers are passionate and genuinely invested in their subjects, even if it’s not their speciality. They encourage independent thinking rather than giving us “the right answer”. It’s made me much more confident academically, especially since I did science at A level which is very fact-based.
My goal is to go straight onto a PGCE in Secondary English teaching. I want to help young people find confidence in their voices and discover books/genres that speak to them as well as breaking the stereotype that reading is nerdy.

The English department creates a supportive environment where you can express opinions and explore ideas without judgement. The sense of calm at Edge Hill University means I never feel lost or overwhelmed.

The library’s [in Catalyst] second floor is probably my favourite place on campus. The academic conversations around me motivate me to get my work done while also maintaining an easy, free-flowing atmosphere. The Catalyst along with Hale Hall are quiet areas perfect for reading or working on essays, with plenty of group spaces.

The new SU is a lively and useful space – great for grabbing a drink, meeting friends, or taking part in events. I use it to study in a different environment or to meet friends for quiz nights.

I met some of my closest friends living in Main halls during my first year. I wanted the full university experience, and an easy commute to classes. It was social and convenient. I now live off campus with one of the girls from my first year flat.

I love crocheting and cross-stitching. It helps me switch off after heavy reading days. I’m always working on a blanket or bookmark. I joined the Fibre Arts society for a while. It was a lovely way to unwind and meet people with similar hobbies. And I’d love to visit Edinburgh. I think the atmosphere, bookshops, and old streets feel like something out of a novel.

My hero is my college form tutor. They pushed me to pursue English because it was what I wanted, and not what I thought was the right or sensible choice.

My advice? If you love reading and thinking deeply about texts, you should go for it and apply. Be open to new genres and authors, and don’t be afraid to speak up in seminars.