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Aynsley Paterson found her place in the English Department at Wichita State University. She will graduate with a master's degree in English literature and language.Courtesy

Meet a Shocker: Aynsley Paterson

Dec. 9, 2024
By Strategic Communications

English literature at Wichita State

A degree in English Literature provides personal and professional enrichment through advanced study of literature. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to the outstanding teacher and to the well-prepared candidate for further graduate study.

Aynsley Paterson stepped out of her comfort zone, overcoming her introverted nature to build friendships and make the most of the Shocker experience.

Aynsley is one of more than 1,200 students eligible for fall 2024 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.

Major

Master of Arts in English literature and language

Hometown

Maize, Kansas

Why did you choose Wichita State University?

I originally wanted to move to a different state or country for school, but after touring WSU and meeting a professor in their English department during my tour, I felt the most welcomed and accepted at WSU’s English Department.

What has been your biggest challenge as a student? And how did you overcome it?

I started WSU during the COVID-19 pandemic, so probably having to deal with online courses rather than in person ... I love in-person courses. 

What are your favorite on-campus and off-campus spots?

I love my office that I share with my friend Delaney on the sixth floor of Lindquist Hall. We have lovely dark red walls, so many fairy lights and the comfiest couch ever. When I am not on campus, I really enjoy staying at home or walking around the Paramount Marketplace. 

If a movie were made about your life, who would you cast to play you? And what genre would best capture your story?

I think the genre that would best fit my story is a comedy or even a dark comedy. I think Dakota Fanning, specifically as a child, could play the younger version of myself. I think the older version of me could be Amanda Seyfried or Ella Purnell. 

What are your plans after graduation?

First, I am going to travel to Madison, Wisconsin to visit my best friend for a little. Then, I will come back to Wichita and start a big adult job. 

What advice would you give other Wichita State students?

Make sure you go out and do things! I am a big introvert and not a big joiner, but I always tried to go to events that piqued my interest, and it helped me make some more friends. Also, compliment when you like someone’s outfit, clothing item, hair, piercings or makeup. Talk and connect with people and your classmates, and get off your phone once in a while. 

About Wichita State University

Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.

Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.

The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.

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