Department of English
Vision:
To appreciate diverse cultures and enhance life-skills through the study of language and literature
Mission:
To expose young minds to world cultures through literature in English and to refine communication skills for universal application.
The English language as we know it today, stands as a global language of knowledge, opportunity and connection. For decades, since its inception in 1963, the Department of English has played a pivotal role in shaping an academic ethos and intellectual culture through the study of language and literature.
Distinguished former faculty like Ms. Alice B. D’Cruz have nurtured generations of learners through an unwavering commitment and dedication to excellence. Currently steered by a dynamic faculty, the Department of English has carefully crafted the NEP curriculum to make the undergraduate students proficient communicators, innovative creators and enthusiastic trailblazers.
In meeting the demands of the NEP syllabus, the faculty strive relentlessly to foster activities which encourage independent thinking, engaging with diverse cultures and creating holistic personalities. The Department organizes study trips and visits to literary and cultural festivals. It encourages students to participate at value-added certificate courses, research paper presentations, public speaking, elocution, debates, drama and quizzes. Some activities that students are involved in include WordsUp, Xavier’s Got Talent, Pegasus, Literature Club and Oratory Club. Eloquence, the departmental newsletter, gives students a platform to nurture their creative writing skills.
The job prospects for students of English Literature are vast and bright, in a booming media world. Since literature is all-encompassing, a student of Literature naturally acquires knowledge of various other disciplines giving him/her an edge in the job market. In fact, many commercial concerns stipulate graduation in literature as their criteria for job selection at the national and international level.
Opportunities await our students in Teaching, Research, Translation Studies, Civil Services, Content Writing, Copywriting, Advertising, Public Relations, Event Management, Documentaries and Scripting, Theatre, Creative Writing, Publishing, Networking, Social Media Specialist, Blogging, Vlogging, Travel Writing, among others.
The Department trains students in Public Speaking, Elocution, Debate, and Drama. It organizes interactive sessions with writers, poets, and artists. Students are involved in editing the in-house newsletter Eloquence, and the biannual college newsletter Xavierwrite. Language related Value Added Courses are organized for the students. The faculty and students are exposed to the global literary scenario while attending the annual Goa Arts and Literature Festival (GALF).
If one has to ask me to name a place that is a home away from home, my answer would undoubtedly remain St. Xavier’s College. Xavier’s has shaped me into the woman that I am today and has taught me to be resilient no matter the circumstances.
Through the three years that I spent there, I was encouraged and pushed by professors who saw in me capabilities that I didn’t believe existed. Going beyond just written examinations, the professors looked out for us, offering their support whenever a subject or a concept seemed too perplexing, solidifying my love for literature. The Department will always be to me like a familiar song that one turns on when one wants to feel safe and happy.
From hosting events to participating in them, I learnt how to think on my feet and to expect the unexpected. An event that will remain close to my heart is the Department’s WordsUp that has seen 7 editions. Being a part of the event’s core team and the co-ordinator, I have created unforgettable memories. Participation at inter-collegiate events like Pegasus, Notewordy, Creations, K-OSS has brought out the best in me. Looking back, I realize how much St. Xavier’s College has given and I am forever grateful for my time there.
Ms. Katherine Manuel