The English Department presents Ashley Salem (she/her). Ashley is a second year English major (creative writing emphasis) and an archaeology minor.

What is your favorite memory at UC Davis? 

My favorite memory at UC Davis is definitely having dinner outside every night with fellow freshmen water polo players last year (2020-2021). There weren’t many people on campus, but having that solid group of friends to see every night made such an odd year so special.

What is a must read for an English major?

Dracula by Bram Stoker, it takes on such an interesting format and goes way beyond what media portrays it as.

Where do you see yourself in ten years?

Definitely traveling the world, digging holes, and writing banger bestsellers!

What are you passionate about?

Besides reading and writing, cooking and playing water polo are my biggest passions. I love experimenting in the kitchen and showing love for people through my cooking. Water polo has made me a better person and taught me what true hard work and camaraderie is.

What do you like to do in your free time to unwind?

I like to see my friends between my busy schedule, go on small adventures, or just lay down.

If you could write a book about your life, what would the title be?

“Every Seed Grows a Ginger Tree”

What makes you proud to be an English major?

Upholding a reputation for English as a whole in the athletics department, it seems to be a more niche major for student athletes. Having a strength with words as well as with a sport is an unexpected engagement.

If you had one wish for the English Department/Community here on campus... what would it be?

I think the Shakespeare garden needs to be kept up a little better, it’s such a hidden gem!

List 3 of your favorite English Classes.

ENL 5F (Fiction Workshop), ENL 5P (Poetry Workshop), and NaNoWriMo First year seminar!

Cats or dogs?

Cats.

Coffee or tea?

Coffee.

Early bird or night owl?

Switches off every other business day.

Best Major in the Whole World?

English!