Written by Hannah Scofield

Meet Annika Reitenga, an English graduate with a writing minor. Annika will attend the Literature Program at the University of Alabama in the fall and teach English as part of her assistantship.

What made you choose BSC?

My high school guidance counselor put me in contact with an admissions counselor who was actually a graduate from my high school. He was so friendly and encouraging throughout the entire process. He really influenced my final decision to attend BSC.

What are some things you’ve accomplished here that you would not have been able to accomplish anywhere else?

Oh, my! Where do I start? I guess the most unexpected accomplishment may be the opportunity to run track and field. I had been running off and on in high school, and I had a real passion for it. A friend encouraged me to reach out to the head track coach, Coach Cox. I met with him one day, and he brought me onto the team within a week. The experience is something that has taught me discipline and self-awareness. I am beyond thankful for the opportunity.

What were your best BSC moments?

The best moments are all from the Department of English and the track and field team. Working on Quad [the campus literary magazine] has been a hard but rewarding experience. Many English classes here have changed my view on life and have truly helped me progress and mature during my time at BSC. Traveling for track meets and the energy of racing are absolutely invigorating. I will never be able to compete again once I’m gone from BSC, so I tried to value every single second of the season.

Have you traveled abroad during your time at BSC, and if so, when?

I studied abroad in England for my junior year, and – let me tell you – the experience was beyond wonderful. My worldview has completely changed. I am much more confident and independent. I have been able to look at the United States from an outside view, and it has truly changed my perspective for the better.

What’s a fun fact about you?

I was born on Star Wars Day. May the 4^th be with you!

What are some things you wanted to accomplish at BSC before you graduated?

I wanted to do well on my senior research. I wanted to make the faculty of the English department proud. I wanted to score points for the track team at (at least) one meet.

What are some long-term goals you want to accomplish once you leave BSC?

I’ve got big plans! My dream job is to become an English professor. I want to continue my education in graduate school and then get a doctorate degree if possible. Another career path would be in communications or marketing. I’ve worked in marketing throughout my time at BSC, and I am interested in the field, but I’d be happiest with my own office on a college campus.

.

Hannah Scofield ’19 served as the intern in the BSC Communications Department. She graduated with a degree in English and Media and Film Studies, and she will attend the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts in the fall. As a student, Hannah served as the editor of student magazine Bagheera, wrote for numerous other campus publications, and worked on film projects within BSC and through Sidewalk Film Festival.