Creative Expression and Literary Leadership: Sophia Martin
Sophia Martin, an English major with a creative writing minor, will graduate this spring with a deep sense of accomplishment. Through her studies and personal experiences, she has explored the power of words, stories, and song in both academic and creative spheres.
Her academic journey at UAF has been one of growth and discovery. Sophia’s passion for creative expression is evident in her songwriting and her academic pursuits, especially as she completed Practicum in Literary Publishing with Professor Joe Holt. During this experience, she helped curate submissions for Ice Box Literary Journal and played an instrumental role in planning a long-awaited literary reading. "It feels like it was a huge success, and I'm proud of us for that," Sophia says, reflecting on the event. Her leadership and engagement in the UAF literary community showcase her commitment to not only her craft but to fostering creative spaces for others.
Her time at UAF has not been without challenges, but Sophia’s resilience shines through. Over the past two years, her fiancé—who studies civil engineering—has been her unwavering support system. “He has been just a huge support to me, and I am happy to have had him at my side,” she says, highlighting the importance of a strong personal network during tough times. While their academic fields don’t overlap, their emotional and moral support for each other has been vital to her success. They’ve found a balance in encouraging each other to pursue their passions, even when their paths don’t look the same.
Sophia’s future is just as bright as her past at UAF. After a brief break, she plans to pursue a Master's degree in creative writing and English literature. “After that, I'm very excited to have kids and teach them what I've learned about poetry, and Mary Shelley and The Swan Book by Alexis Wright, which I read for a climate fiction class with Jennifer Shell,” Sophia shares with an infectious optimism. Additionally, she dreams of recording an album someday—a goal that speaks to her deep connection with songwriting and her desire to share her creativity with the world.
Sophia’s story at UAF is one of intellectual and creative exploration, and as she looks toward her future, she carries forward the lessons learned from her time in the classroom and beyond. Her journey represents the very essence of the College of Liberal Arts—where a passion for the written word and the arts intersects with personal growth, community, and the drive to make an impact.