Samantha Elliott ’09, Honours Bachelor of Arts, English Literature and Concurrent Education, Markham, ON

“The college system fosters a sense of community amongst students that is unique to the Trent experience.”

An avid reader since childhood, Ms. Samantha Elliott chose to major in English literature and minor in history at Trent University.  Her love of literature garnered an entrance scholarship into the university and the Gail Waddington Prize for excellence in the study of poetry.   After teacher’s college she hopes to pursue a Master's of English degree in Canadian literature.

What will you do with your Trent degree?
I plan to teach high school English, history, and special education. I also hope to teach abroad after I graduate. I would love to work in South Korea or Japan.

What are your future goals?
As a part of the Queen's-Trent Concurrent Education program, I will be attending Queen's university in September in order to complete my Bachelor of Education. I hope to combine my two passions of English literature and history through the pursuit of a Master's of English degree in Canadian literature following my graduation from teacher's college.

What is the best thing about studying at Trent?
The Trent students, professors, and other individuals that make up the Trent staff have always been incredibly welcoming and supportive. The college system fosters a sense of community amongst students that is unique to the Trent experience.  This intimate setting has allowed me to flourish both socially and academically over the past four years. 

Can you give an example of how Trent professors had a special impact?
Coming into university, I never could have imagined the strong relationships I would later build with my professors. Not only have I always been supported academically, but have always felt that Trent professors go the extra mile to invest themselves in the lives of their students and ensure their well-being beyond the academic sphere.

The English department professors have been an outstanding group of supportive individuals with whom I hope to maintain lasting relationships.

Interests and passions:
My passion for English literature has spanned from my early childhood to present day. I have always been an avid reader and have valued the way in which authors craft their novels. The support that I have received from my professors at Trent and their own investment in the pursuit of English literature studies has really motivated me in my own studies.

Extracurricular activities:
I was a member of the Otonabee College Cabinet and an Introductory Seminar Week staff member. The experience increased my leadership, communication, and self-confidence in an immeasurable way. Being able to share ideas with peers from different educational backgrounds was incredibly valuable. Through participation in the Trent Fashion Show and the Trent Pen Pal program, I established lasting friendships.

Awards and Scholarships received at Trent University:

• Trent Entrance Scholarship
• Gail Waddington Prize 2010-2011 for excellence in the study of poetry