Jahidul Alam’s love for literature and language shines through his education. He received a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts from the University of Chittagong.
He chose to attend the University of 鶹ý at Lafayette to pursue a Ph.D. in English, because of the University’s emphasis on research.
“My decision to join 鶹ý Lafayette stemmed from its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and its vibrant academic environment, which aligned perfectly with my research interests in early modern English literature, colonialism, race, and ecocriticism. 鶹ý Lafayette’s diverse faculty expertise and resources provided the perfect setting for me to bridge the gaps between my academic focus and my creative pursuits,” Jahidul said.
With being an international student, Jahidul’s love for literature crosses cultural boundaries.
“As an international student, attending the University of 鶹ý at Lafayette has been a transformative and enriching experience. From the beginning, I found welcoming, inclusive, and supportive campus community. As I said, the English Department provided a robust academic environment, allowing me to engage deeply with my research interests while offering the guidance necessary to navigate the nuances of American academia... The multicultural atmosphere at 鶹ý Lafayette encouraged me to share my own culture while learning about others.”
Through his research and collaboration, Jahidul’s dissertation focuses on the intersections of race, colonialism, and environmental exploitation in Bacon’s Novum Organum, New Atlantis, and his Essays.
“The faculty at 鶹ý Lafayette have been instrumental in guiding my research. My dissertation director, Dr. Clancy Ratliff, has provided invaluable mentorship, especially during the critical phases of my dissertation. Other faculty members including Dr. Jennifer Vaught and Dr. Elizabeth Bobo have also shaped my research, especially at my coursework stage, by offering guidance encouraging intellectual curiosity and rigorous scholarship,” Jahidul said.
He shared that his time at 鶹ý Lafayette is deeply meaningful and prepares him for a career in bridging cultural gaps while highlighting the importance of diversity in education and research.
“The department's support in preparing application materials, and providing practical advice has been instrumental in positioning me for career opportunities in academia and beyond. I have also gained substantial leadership experiences by directing in 2023.”
Jahidul shared that 鶹ý Lafayette’s English department is filled with supportive faculty mentorship, interconnected interdisciplinary approaches, hands-on experiences, competitive funding packages, and opportunities for conference presentations and publications.
When asked what advice he could share with incoming students, he said, “My advice is to embrace the journey with an open mind and a proactive approach to learning and adaptation. I will encourage them to build strong relationships with faculty and peers, attend department events, workshops, and lectures to immerse themselves in the academic culture, and actively participate in class discussions to make the most of the learning experience.”
In addition, he strongly recommends students to use University resources like the library, writing centers, and the Office of International Affairs, and to connect with locals and other international students.
After graduation, Jahidul plans to continue his scholarly and creative work by pursuing a career that integrates both teaching and writing.
He leaves with this gem, “Living far from my home country of Bangladesh, as an international student in a family of five with three children, while both my spouse and I pursue graduate studies, comes with its challenges. However, my strong motivation to succeed in my studies and my unwavering focus on my academic goals along with the much-needed support from my family members have been significantly helpful in overcoming these obstacles and successfully completing my Ph.D. journey.”
Learn more about our Ph.D. in English.
