An Interview with CAS Valedictorian Hannah Gagle
The Department of English is proud to congratulate English and psychology double major Hannah Gagle on her achievement as the College of Arts and Sciences Class of 2026 Valedictorian. We asked her a few questions on her experience studying English at USD and her plans for the future.
Why did you choose English as a major?
I chose English originally because I wanted a second major. My first major was psychology, which I initially chose because I enjoyed AP Psychology during my senior year in high school. I loved learning about how people think, feel, behave and relate to one another. I picked up the English major because I used to particularly enjoy English classes throughout school. I had an especially rewarding experience with AP Literature, where I read some amazing classic titles such as East of Eden, The Glass Menagerie, Wuthering Heights, Death of a Salesman and much more. I loved my teachers and analyzing literature. Furthermore, I was often told that I was a great writer. I wanted to continue to sharpen my writing skills, so I ended up picking up the additional major.
What is the best part of being a USD English major?
I think the best part of being a USD English major is that it’s such a small department. You’re bound to end up in classes with some of the same peers, so you’ll end up working with many like-minded individuals. I feel like English is one of those majors that people choose because they’re passionate about it and want to be there. This can make a huge difference in the classroom, especially when it comes to participation. I loved hearing people contribute and share in class. Furthermore, I love that the English major allowed me to continue reading books, especially classic literature. It has also helped me realize that I want to ensure that I continue reading throughout my life. I truly believe that reading helps make us more empathetic and caring individuals. And who doesn’t love getting lost in a good story?
Favorite author(s) and/or work(s)?
As a kid, I was obsessed with the Harry Potter series. I remember reading a book in 9th grade called The Language of Flowers that I loved at the time. More recently, I really enjoyed classic titles like East of Eden, Little Dorrit and Brave New World. I would love to be able to re-read some of these books!
Who is/are your favorite English faculty member(s)? Why?
I think all the English faculty members are amazing! I think my most special experience was with Sister Mary Hotz. Her Advanced Writing Course was fascinating and eye-opening. She was also very sweet and charming, and I could tell how much she cares about her students. I also liked Stefan Vander Elst. I ended up taking 3 courses with him and always loved how funny he was!
Do you have a favorite English class you've taken?
My favorite English class was either Advanced Writing in the English Major or Graphic Novel. Advanced Writing pushed me as a writer and reader. I had never read a novel as challenging or as long as Little Dorrit, and it was truly a rewarding experience. I felt like I had accomplished so much by the end of the semester reading such a dense 800 page novel. The essays we wrote were difficult in a good way and were supplemented with articles that probed my mind and led me to new discoveries. Graphic Novel was my first English class as a freshman. I thought it was fun because I was reading a genre of books that I never did growing up.
What are your plans after graduation?
I am planning to continue my education at University of San Diego in the School of Leadership and Education, where I will pursue a master’s in school counseling. I am excited to begin this next chapter, and I have long known that I want to be the kind of supportive figure for children that I needed growing up.
What is one thing you'd like to share with students considering English as a major?
I would tell students considering English as a major to be prepared for a significant amount of reading and writing—but also to know that it is incredibly rewarding. Some of my favorite and most meaningful classes have been in English. The department is filled with genuinely supportive faculty who care about getting to know you as a person and helping you succeed.
Strong writing skills are more important than ever, especially in a world shaped by rapidly advancing technology. An English major challenges you to continuously refine those skills, think critically and communicate effectively.