International Student Voices: Najmeh Dehghanitafti from Iran

Q: Can you tell us about your background and what led you to pursue an English degree?

A: I hold a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and a Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics. Over the past decade, I’ve dedicated myself to studying and teaching English language and literature, immersing myself in American, British, and world cultures and literary traditions. One of my primary reasons for choosing English as a major was my adventurous spirit, which led me to explore the world through literature, language, and culture. I believe that English is the heart of the humanities, and the skills developed through this major are invaluable for personal growth and for a better understanding of life. After earning my master’s degree in applied Linguistics, I spent several years teaching English at various colleges and universities in my home country. However, I reached a point where I felt the need to expand my knowledge and explore more in my field. I dreamed of pursuing a PhD in English in a country where English is the common language of communication and where there are abundant opportunities for growth in academia. Thus, I landed in America, the land of opportunities.

 

Q: Why did you choose Idaho State University for your English studies?

A: I chose Idaho State University (ISU) for my English studies because of the exceptional programs offered by the English department. At the PhD level, where I completed my degree, ISU provides a unique major in English and the Teaching of English, along with a TESOL certificate. The English program at the graduate level provides great flexibility for those with backgrounds in both language and literature. Since my master’s degree is in applied linguistics, I pursued the TESOL certificate alongside my PhD, which was a fantastic opportunity to learn modern teaching methodologies. This program, offering comprehensive internships and externships, prepared me to teach English literature to both students with English as their non-native language and students with English as their mother tongue. Additionally, the program introduced me to the latest teaching methodologies for literature classes, with the flexibility to meet the needs and challenges of various learners. This was especially beneficial for helping non-native English students engage with the world literature, despite the difficulties of learning a language that isn’t their mother tongue. This unique combination made ISU’s graduate program stand out, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a comprehensive and flexible English PhD program.

Q: Can you share a bit about your experience with the English programs at ISU?

A: The English program at ISU has been rewarding. It allowed me to teach first-year composition courses, which helped me gain significant experience in college-level teaching and apply new methodologies in a practical setting. Additionally, teaching in a multicultural environment at ISU, with students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds and varying levels of English proficiency, enriched my teaching experience. The variety in the classroom allowed me to develop relevant skills and insights that I couldn't have gained elsewhere.

 

Q: How did the faculty and coursework at ISU help you in your academic journey?

A: The faculty and coursework at ISU have been fundamental in my academic journey. The professors in the English department are very knowledgeable, experienced in their fields, supportive, and always willing to share their expertise with students. Whenever I faced challenges in my learning or teaching, my professors were readily available to offer guidance, which was immensely helpful. Regarding the coursework, I should say that it can be demanding at times, but it’s manageable with a determined goal and an organized schedule. The faculty’s kindness and willingness to help make a significant difference. Ultimately, success in the English program depends on the student’s motivation and dedication. However, I firmly believe that the English department provides a solid curriculum and a supportive team of faculty to help students achieve their goals.

 

Q: What unique opportunities or resources did you find at ISU that enhanced your learning experience?

A: That’s a great question. ISU is an institution rich with resources that truly support students and help them achieve their goals. Personally, I took full advantage of these resources during my PhD studies. I worked as a writing tutor at the writing center and taught general English courses during the summer at the Intensive English Institute. These experiences were valuable for gaining knowledge and expertise in my field and preparing for the job market.

 

In addition, the ISU library is another fantastic resource. I used the interlibrary loan service at the Oboler Library extensively during my dissertation research. The service was fast and reliable and provided me with rare books and articles in my research that helped speed up my dissertation process.

 

Additionally, the Career Path Internship program offered at ISU provides students with numerous opportunities to gain relevant experience and build their resumes. I participated in a CPI at the library, which was a great experience. I developed valuable library research skills and learned to create tutorials using software like Libwizard. This experience opened up new avenues for my research and was instrumental in my dissertation work.

 

Q: Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your time at ISU?

A: One of the most memorable moments of my time at ISU was delivering the commencement speech as the student speaker for the graduating class of 2024. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that still gives me chills when I think about it. The faculty members in charge were incredibly supportive throughout the process. They helped me prepare for the event and ensure that my speech went smoothly. Their kindness and dedication were evident, and their support made a huge difference. I’ll never forget the sight of many teary eyes in the audience during my speech, and it was so rewarding to hear from fellow graduates afterward, who shared how my words had touched and inspired them.

Q: How do you feel your education prepared you for your future career?

A: For me, it was the PhD program at ISU that truly prepared me for my career. Thanks to this degree, I was able to land my dream job right after graduation. I secured a tenure-track position as an English Instructor at one of the top colleges in the U.S., and I owe this achievement to the comprehensive preparation I received from the PhD program at ISU. It equipped me with the qualifications and confidence needed to excel in the job market.

 

Q: Can you share any specific skills or knowledge you’ve gained that you find particularly valuable?

A: As I mentioned earlier, the extensive teaching opportunities at ISU, including internships, externships, teaching assistant roles, and the Career Path Training program, were invaluable for developing my skills and knowledge in my field. These experiences significantly prepared me for the job market and equipped me with the practical expertise that I needed for my career.

Q: What was your experience integrating into the campus and local community as an international student?

A: Integrating into the campus and local community as an international student has been a positive experience for me, thanks to the support from the International Program Office (IPO) at ISU. The IPO played a significant role in helping me connect with other international students through their organized events and introducing me to the range of services available at ISU. I’m especially grateful for the diversity at ISU. The international student community here is vibrant and supportive, creating an environment where students from different backgrounds can feel at home. The support provided by the IPO and the broader campus community has been instrumental in helping me adjust and thrive, ensuring that I felt welcomed and safe throughout my studies.

 

Q: Did you participate in any extracurricular activities or organizations at ISU? If so, how did they contribute to your experience?

A: Well, I haven’t participated necessarily in an extracurricular activity due to my highly demanding major, however, I attended most of the events held by the student organizations which helped me stay connected to the vibrant campus life and enriched my overall experience at ISU, even though my schedule was quite busy.

 

Q: How did studying at ISU help you grow personally and culturally?

A: Studying at ISU has been enriching for my personal and cultural growth. Being part of this diverse community has exposed me to a wide range of cultures and languages, which has significantly broadened my understanding of the world. Before starting my journey at ISU, my knowledge of global cultures was limited. I was amazed to learn about various traditions, experience different cuisines prepared by my fellow international students, and engage in cultural exchanges. Such experiences have taught me that, regardless of the language we speak, the countries we come from, the beliefs we follow, or the skin colors we possess, we all share a common humanity. 

 

We are all residents of one planet, earth. I highly believe that our similarities are way more than our differences. Connecting with such a diverse community has broadened my perspective and deepened my appreciation for the rich tapestry of human experience. This growth has been invaluable in helping me develop a more inclusive and compassionate worldview.

 

Q: What are some challenges and stereotypes you have faced, and how have you overcome them?

A: Of course, life is full of challenges especially when we move to a new environment with a lack of awareness about the target culture, expectations, or values. I didn’t fully realize how different things would be before starting my studies at ISU, which was a bit of a culture shock at the beginning. However, I am so grateful that with the supportive system ISU offers, I could quickly learn about the new educational system and adapt accordingly. 

Q: What are your career goals, and how do you believe your degree from ISU will help you achieve them?

A: Before starting my PhD program at ISU, my dream was to teach English at a university in the U.S. and to conduct research in my area of interest with the guidance of the top scholars in the field. I can confidently say that earning my PhD from ISU was the key that unlocked this dream. Right after graduation, I got my dream job, a full-time position as an English professor at one of the top colleges in the U.S. Throughout my PhD program, I gained valuable guidance from my professors and conducted research under the guidance of my expert advisor, a renowned scholar in my field, and attended the most esteemed conferences that let me get connected with other renowned scholars and benefit from their vast knowledge. I owe this to the preparation I got from my degree along with my own dedication and determination. 

Q: Do you have any plans to stay in the U.S.or do you plan to return to your home country?

A: Currently, I aim to start my teaching position in the U.S. and focus on conducting research in my field. I plan to gain valuable teaching experience here in the U.S. and use my position to support and guide students who encounter similar challenges. My goal is to ensure they feel supported and encouraged during their academic journey. However, the future is always unpredictable, and plans may change.

 

Q: How do you think your education at ISU will be perceived in your home country or in the international job market?

A: My home country, Iran, is rich in providing graduate majors in English and for sure, earning a PhD in English is significantly admired back home. This degree is in high demand in Iran because the country emphasizes higher education and international communication, which requires proficiency in English as a second language. Therefore, having an advanced degree in teaching English opens up numerous opportunities for academic and professional positions. 

 

In terms of the international job market, a PhD in English is also well-regarded. English is recognized as a global language of communication, and having a degree in English, particularly with a focus on teaching, is valuable for anyone involved in international communication or business. This degree enhances my ability to contribute to global educational and professional environments where English is a key component. I believe that teaching English is a growing necessity that institutions and companies around the world actively seek.

 

Q: What do you wish you had known before starting your program at ISU?

A: I wish I had researched the specific expertise of the faculty members and identified my research interests before starting my program at ISU. Knowing the specific area I wanted to focus on in my studies and understanding the faculty’s focus in that field would have made the process smoother. Writing a thesis or dissertation requires significant interest and dedication, so having a clear sense of what you are passionate about can make the experience much easier and more enjoyable. While I don’t regret exploring various fields before settling on my dissertation topic, it would have been beneficial to know earlier which area truly interested me and which professors had the most experience in that field. 

 

Additionally, I wish I had attended more conferences in our field and built more connections before starting my dissertation. Networking early on could have been more beneficial for my research. Lastly, I wish I had been more prepared for the cultural adjustments involved in studying abroad. Understanding the cultural nuances, both academically and socially, would have enhanced my overall experience and integration into the new environment. Doing more research about these aspects earlier could have helped me adapt more smoothly and make the most of my time at ISU. Overall, I am so grateful for the opportunity ISU provided me to earn my PhD in English. ISU has truly become my second family and a home away from home. I feel incredibly blessed to be part of such a supportive and vibrant community that has made my academic journey meaningful and fulfilling.

 

Q: What advice would you give to other international students considering studying English at ISU?

A: My advice for international students considering studying English at ISU is to have a well-organized plan for your entire program. This will help you manage the demanding coursework while also allowing you to enjoy life in the U.S. and explore new experiences. Make sure to carefully review the graduate handbook and maintain regular communication with your advisor to ensure you understand the requirements and stay on track. Additionally, study the expertise of the professors early on and research your field of interest. English is so broad and encompasses many fascinating areas for research. So, it’s best to research beforehand and find out what interests you in the field. This will help you identify a research topic for your master’s thesis or PhD dissertation and find the most suitable advisor who can guide you in your research area. 

 

Moreover, I highly recommend getting involved in as many conferences as possible, whether local, national, or international. These events provide valuable opportunities to make connections, learn from diverse perspectives, and stay informed about the latest developments in your field. Participating in conferences helps build a professional network, enriches your research, strengthens your CV, and enhances your prospects in the job market. Lastly, please pay close attention to your mental health and avoid overworking, as the intense workload can be overwhelming and impact your well-being. Strive to create a balance between work and life and have some time enjoying the beautiful nature that Pocatello offers. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience all that ISU and its surroundings are offering.