Find Your Humanities Humans

For a field so focused on humans and human connection, the Humanities can be a surprisingly isolating path. Your chosen course of study requires a lot of silent reading and reflection, which (unfortunately) is not always a community activity. Our STEM buddies form study groups and meet up with their lab partners. They have the fires of late-night problem sets to forge their friendships. What’s a Huma major to do?

Fear not! Though they may sometimes seem like a rare breed on Rice's campus, I am here to tell you that Humanities majors are all around you. They may be researching in Fondren or writing in Coffeehouse. With the proper strategy, you can lure them out of their favorite reading spot.

Whether you’re hoping to form a writing group or just make a new friend, here are some things to try:

1. Join clubs. As a member of R2, I am undoubtedly biased here. But in all honestly, joining clubs is a great way to meet people who share your interests. You may find fellow majors working on one of the many publications on campus. Newspapers, magazines, and research journals are all great places to check out.
2. Talk about class-- even outside of class. Yes, I know this one sounds like extra work. But you’ve found a passion in the Humanities-- why not share it? You’d be surprised how many people might have also read the book that you’re writing an essay about. Bounce ideas off of your friends and classmates. Share your creative work.
3. Talk to your professors and TAs. Humanities professors are incredibly knowledgeable in their subject areas. Make personal connections with your professors and TAs. Let their knowledge and experience guide you.
   
4. Take initiative. Found a cool coffeeshop off campus? Invite some classmates to come along next time! Host writing sessions in your college commons. Start a book club. There are countless ways to meet other Huma majors if you get creative.

​​I became an English major because I love to read and write. But I also became an English major because I love to communicate and exchange ideas with others. Discussing literature with other majors has undeniable practical and academic benefits; it is incredibly helpful for understanding and digesting the material. But on a personal level, these sorts of discussions are very enriching. My Humanities friends have become an important part of my experience at Rice. I would recommend these tips to anyone looking to talk with cool people about cool things!

Written by Megan G.