Maybe we think we know what a day in the life of an English major looks like: classic novels, writing, poetry, writing, presentations, and (you guessed it!) writing. But what do English majors actually learn? Where do they fit in the world outside of universities?

The variety of answers may surprise you.

This week, Dr. Ross and student producer Ashley Worley launch their new series highlighting inside stories and college prep practicalities from UT Tyler's English department. Department chair Dr. Ann Beebe and English student Jim Clayton join the discussion to share what's really happening in English classes. If you're choosing your degree, preparing for college life, or just curious about other experiences in higher ed, this series is for you.

Have more questions about life inside an English department? Email us at ADRquestions@gmail.com or leave a comment below. We'd love to hear from you!

Want to learn more or connect with UT Tyler's Department of Literature and Languages? Click the links below!

• Department newsletters
• Facebook page
• Instagram: @uttylerlitlang

We sit through classes, sit to study, sit on a couch to relax, and often sit at a desk to work. It’s easier than ever as a busy college student to miss out on the basics: sunshine, fresh air, friends, and movement. Sure, there’s the gym on campus – but what if you’ve never been before? How do you break through the intimidation? Will there even be an activity you like there?

Enter the Rec Sports team – and their director, Rick McGill.

This week, Dr. Ross and student producer Ashley Worley discuss what you might not have known rec centers have to offer with UT Tyler’s Director of Recreational Sports, Rick McGill. From free weights to ski trips, the department has something for everyone. He shares how rec sports engagement impacts the lives of students, helping them stay healthy, build friendships, and even secure unexpected career opportunities.

Whether you’re a basketball enthusiast or an air hockey champ, there’s something about sports that brings us all together. The resources you need are here – and it includes so much more than a gym.

Have more questions about rec sports opportunities? Email us at ADRquestions@gmail.com or leave a comment below. We’d love to hear from you!

Want to stay up to date on UT Tyler’s rec center? Download the app to see the gym’s live occupancy count, register for club sports teams, view upcoming outdoor adventures, and more! Search “UT Tyler Rec Sports App” and find it on Google Play or the App Store.

We all know freshman year is a big turning point. There's orientations, welcome celebrations, loads of "firsts" to experience - but with three more years of college, the changes and growth have only begun.

What happens next?

This week, Dr. Ross and student producer Ashley Worley reconvene with two students who appeared on the podcast in their first week of freshman year: Mary Mooney and Dominick Robinette. Now approaching their sophomore year, they discuss the variety of developmental shifts and struggles they've encountered, like managing anxiety, building connections on campus, and navigating AI use in homework. Through it all, they offer insights on how this often-overlooked middle year can be just as pivotal for growth as the first.

Have more questions about surviving and thriving in sophomore year? Email us at ADRquestions@gmail.com. We'd love to hear from you!