Whether it’s “zipping around” on his scooter or singing Christmas carols in the halls of Grauel Building at the end of finals week, English graduate student and Cape Girardeau native Dustin Michael never has a dull moment. For instance, he just spent the summer in Italy with the Rotary Exchange program and recounts touring an Italian newspaper, attending a prime-time reporter’s presentation and practicing travel writing.
“It was a life-changing trip,” he says. “I got to see and do so much. I made a ton of friends.”
Aside from Italian travels, Dustin’s Southeast experience also has included a semester-long internship at University Press where he was immersed in the life of a small, independent press. During this time, he worked with a team of students who marketed three full-length books, organized two book launches and published an issue of the literary magazine "Big Muddy." Dustin additionally spent time evaluating manuscripts, proofing and copyediting.
Needless to say, he speaks highly of Southeast and all the opportunities it has afforded him. Dustin has been able stay close to family and friends while getting personal attention from faculty and pursuing challenging academic endeavors.
“I have really gotten a chance to get to know my professors and classmates…that makes me comfortable,” he says. “Yet, I’m constantly challenged. I couldn’t imagine a better educational environmentᾰunless it was at the beach.” Dustin also mentions two professorsᾰDr. Roy Keller, "Capaha Arrow" advisor, and Dr. Susan Swartwout, University Press advisor, as his heroes.
“No telling what I’d be doing if it weren’t for them,” he says. “I can’t imagine I’d be happy. They taught me everything I know.”
With an undoubtedly bright and interesting future ahead, Dustin passes along two suggestions for future Southeast students: First, play intramural sports while you can. If not, you will awake one day with a “weird longing” to get in shape, but realize that you don’t have enough time, you are too old and all your friends are married. Secondly, students should make a whole day of Homecoming.
“You’re young and strong. You’ll heal quickly,” he remarks.