Giving Thanks: Scholarship Helps M.F.A. Student Become a Writer and English Professor
This December, members of our Fulbright College Family are sharing expressions of gratitude, letters of thanks and their appreciation for those who have helped make their educational journey possible.
Meet Sophie Trist, who thanks to the Carolyn F. Walton Cole Endowed Fund in Creative Writing, is one step closer to her dream of becoming a writer and English professor.
Carolyn F. Walton Cole Endowed Fund in Creative Writing Recipient Sophie Trist
Name: Sophie Trist
Hometown: New Orleans, LA
Graduation: 2024
Major(s)/Minor(s): M.F.A. in creative writing, fiction track
Activities/Interests: When I’m not writing, I can usually be found with my nose in a book (probably either historical fiction or fantasy), playing with my dogs, or listening to country music.
Career Aspirations: I’m studying at the U of A to further my career goals of being a novelist and college English professor.
In her own words:
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Cole,
As the 2021 recipient of the Carolyn F. Walton Cole Endowment Fund in Creative Writing, I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your generous support of my education.
It is very meaningful to me that people who have never even met me are helping me achieve my long-time dream of becoming a writer and English professor. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for making it possible for me to study at the University of Arkansas.
I’m originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, but I’m delighted to be calling Fayetteville home for the next four years. I’ve only been here a few weeks, and I’m already falling in love with the town. I’m not usually an outdoorswoman, but I think Arkansas will teach me to love hiking.
When I’m not writing, I can usually be found immersed in a book, playing with my dog Olive, hanging out with friends, or listening to country music. Historical fiction and fantasy are my favorite genres to both read and write, but I’ll read literally anything that’s well-written.
I’ve been in love with telling stories from a very young age, so the opportunity to study at one of the best creative writing programs in the country is a great privilege.
As I’m sure you know, moving to a new city can be a bit overwhelming, especially when you add in taking
graduate-level classes and working as a teaching assistant. Thanks to this fellowship, I’ll have more breathing room in my first year of study.
Your generous donation will allow me to study my craft and learn to be an effective teacher without worrying about how to support myself. Once again, thank you so very much for your contribution. Every dollar is deeply appreciated.
Yours sincerely,
Sophie Trist
For more information about the Carolyn F. Walton Cole Endowed Fund in Creative Writing or to make a year-end gift to support the college’s students, faculty, or staff, please contact Fulbright College’s Office of Development and External Relations at 479-575-3712 or fulbright@uark.edu.