“It has been more than just an academic pursuit but rather, a journey of self-discovery and professional growth.” ~ Melanie Hyo-In Han

Melanie Hyo-In Han

PhD Candidate in Creative Writing, University of Surrey

“Studying English and Creative Writing has truly changed my life. It has been more than just an academic pursuit but rather, a journey of self-discovery and professional growth. Having recently moved from full-time teaching to research, I’ve gotten to explore postcolonial transnationalism and identity in poetry, drawing from my own multicultural upbringing in Korea and East Africa. I’ve been able to have amazing conversations with readers of my work, thanks to the publication of my two poetry collections, while reading and engaging with other authors’ and poets’ books. These experiences have reinforced the integral role of English and Creative Writing in fostering meaningful connections, and I’m continually inspired by the power of poetry to bring people together.”