English Senior Spotlight: Ariel Parada

Ariel Parada is an English major and history minor who aspires to teach abroad and write.

What has your journey been as an English major?

I transferred to UMD from Prince George’s Community College with an associates degree in English. I wanted to be an English major because it gives you so many opportunities in the job market. I can be a writer, an editor, a teacher, or I can apply it to other fields such as law.

Have you participated in any internships at UMD?

I was an undergraduate teaching assistant for English 101, and this semester I tutored at the Writing Center. I was also a member of the photography club and fencing club on campus.

What kinds of skills did you learn in these experiences?

As a Writing Center tutor, I helped other students with their writing and taught them grammar and citations. As an undergraduate teaching assistant, I gained experience in giving a lecture and grading and taking attendance. Both of those internships provided me with skills I can apply to my career.

What is your dream career?

I’d like to teach English abroad, preferably in South Korea, Japan or Mongolia. I want to explore the world, and I’m confident that I can teach English to others. I’d also be open to writing for a news agency. That’s the thing about English—it opens a lot of doors.