Coming to Texas A&M University from Willow Park, a small town outside of Fort Worth, Olivia Fowler arrived in Aggieland unsure of what to expect on such a large campus, yet confident in her passion for literature.
Her love for English began early. Many of her most influential teachers throughout middle and high school were English teachers, whose enthusiasm for literature and writing sparked her passion. By the time she began applying to universities, she knew English was the path she wanted to pursue.
“I wanted to either become a lawyer or an English professor, and a degree in English would help me accomplish both of those careers,” she said.
Her first impressions of Texas A&M and the Department of English began forming before she enrolled. During a campus visit, Fowler met Dr. Apostolos Vasilakis, whose willingness to discuss opportunities in the English program played a pivotal role in her decision to attend Texas A&M. “After my conversation with Dr.Vasilakis, I knew attending Texas A&M was a no-brainer,” she said.
Now a junior in the Honors English Program with minors in classical studies and women and gender studies, Fowler is immersed in academics and campus life through her classes, research and involvement in organizations.
Finding Her Place through Service and Community
Initially, Fowler worried about finding her place at such a large university. Instead, she discovered a campus culture that values connection and belonging.
“Even though Texas A&M is so big, there are many ways to find your people,” she said. “It didn’t take long for me to find my groove and meet people who have made this place my home.”
One of Fowler’s roles on campus is to serve as the student representative for the English Undergraduate Studies Committee. In this position, she offers a student perspective on departmental decisions and voting. She was invited to join the committee by Vasilakis who recognized her dedication and leadership within the English department.
“Not only has serving on the committee been an amazing experience, but it’s also an honor to have been selected,” she said. “The role I serve as undergraduate representative is a responsibility I take seriously.”
Fowler also serves as the financial officer for the Classics Club, an organization dedicated to promoting interest in classical studies and literature. The club hosts presentations, discussions, activities and semesterly events for students who share a passion for the subject. “The Classics Club is something I hold near and dear,” she said. “Not only is it fun to talk with others about my favorite subjects, but it's also a great way for me to meet people who share similar passions.”
Her campus involvement also extends beyond academics as Fowler works as the vendor coordinator for Aggie Con; a fan convention held at the Memorial Student Center. The weekend features a variety of events catered to different interests in science fiction, fantasy and horror.
Through clubs, departmental involvement and faculty relationships, she found a close-knit community that supports both her academic and personal growth. Her advice to incoming students reflects that experience. She encourages them to branch out, explore opportunities beyond their studies and embrace the discomfort that comes with change.
“You've left people back home,” she said. “So go find new people and try new things. It’s easy to find a community here once you begin searching for opportunities.”
A Future in Academics
Fowler is preparing for the next step in her academic journey as she applies to the university's 3+2 master's program in English, with an aspiration of becoming an English professor.
“My hope is to utilize the opportunities given to me through the English department to build on my research portfolio and create a compelling resume I can use when applying to doctoral programs,” she said.
Part of that academic research is already underway. The Honors English Program requires students to complete a thesis before graduating. Her thesis will explore feminist retellings of Greek mythology in the modern era, with the goal of better understanding how literature reshapes culture memory and gives new voices to ancient stories.
Throughout her time at Texas A&M, faculty members have made a meaningful impact on her academic experience. Through mentorship and guidance, they reinforce her desire to pursue a career in higher education. “Every professor and every course have stood out to me and played an influential role in my time here.”
Looking ahead, Fowler is excited to begin the next phase of her academic journey. As she prepares to expand her research through her honors thesis and into graduate studies, she feels only more affirmed that she made the right decision in schools and studies.
“Things are about to really pick up here for me academically,” she said. “I'm starting to get a feel for what I want to do for the rest of my life, and so far, that experience has been positive.”