Tim Mehrmann is a current junior and English minor. An active pre-med student on campus, he plans to attend medical school after graduation. He tells us a bit about the value of studying English and why he enjoys the English minor.
Can you tell us a little about yourself, your post-graduation plans, and your experience as an English minor?
I’m from Marshfield, MA. I’m a junior Biochemistry major pursuing minors in English and Microbiology. I’m on the pre-med track, and I hope to attend medical school once I graduate from UMass. I’ve been an English minor since the second semester of my freshman year, and I have thoroughly enjoyed it. So far, having a minor in English has improved my communication skills and given me the opportunity to expand my horizons beyond STEM.
What are your career goals after medical school?
I hope to one day be a practicing physician. I am particularly interested in the study of infectious disease, and hope to one day specialize as an infectious disease doctor. My ideal career would include a blend between patient care and laboratory research, which would allow me to both help patients with infectious disease and understand the organisms causing illnesses.
What drew to you pursuing a minor in English?
I was drawn to English after my first semester at UMass. My high school English teachers were some of the most influential teachers I have ever had, and after adjusting to college life, I realized that I really missed studying English. English has always been an avenue for me to better understand the human aspect of STEM fields, particularly biology, and I felt that my education wouldn’t be complete without it. Once I made up my mind, all I had to do was schedule a meeting with an English advisor, and the rest was easy!
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities at UMass?
I am the events coordinator for the UMass chapter of AMSA, the American Medical Students Association. We are a student advocacy group that promotes medical education and awareness on campus. In the past, we have done fundraising events with other clubs and organized awareness themes [campaigns] for the club around certain medical issues, such as mental health. I am also a part of several other clubs on campus, such as the Red Cross Club. I also enjoy playing intramural soccer, as it gives me a healthy way to let go of work and have fun.
Is there a particular English class you’ve really enjoyed or would recommend?
I am currently taking English 317: (Dis)ability in Literature and I am really enjoying it. The course offers extremely valuable insight into the nature of disability, especially for those who are pursuing a career in healthcare.
What advice would you give to students thinking about adding a minor in English?
Do it! The English minor is a fantastic way to experience worthwhile literature, as well as improve your writing skills. Whatever career you’re thinking about pursuing, writing and communication are vital skills to master. The English minor offers great room for personalization, and is the perfect balance between requiring enough to be rewarding, but not too much to be overly demanding in addition to a major.
What is your favorite quote? Why?
My favorite quote is from Reinhold Niebuhr: "Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference." I am a very idealistic person, and sometimes I get hung up on things when they aren’t perfect. Niebuhr’s quote reminds me to accept that which cannot be changed, while also reminding me to continue doing my best to change what I can.
Interview by Sarah Mulcahy, Digital Communications Intern