Students who struggle with literature and composition classes can find reassurance in the passionate and patient teaching style of Kennesaw State professor Amelia Lewis.
Lewis teaches World and American Literature as well as Composition I and II. Beginning her journey at the University of West Georgia as a master’s student, she eventually taught at Auburn University while pursuing her doctorate degree before heading to KSU. All three of Lewis’ degrees are in English — to say she’s qualified to teach Literature and Composition classes is an understatement.
Lewis believed she would use her degrees to become an editor or freelance writer as she had a fear of public speaking. It was not until she stood in the front of a classroom that she realized her true passion — interacting with students.
“Stepping in the classroom for the first time was terrifying but also one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life,” Lewis said. “Before the semester was over, I knew I had found my life’s calling, and I have not looked back since. I love teaching, and I love interacting with students and being a small part of their journey into earning a college degree.”
Lewis desires for her students to walk away from her classes feeling more confident about their own writing. She fosters confidence in her students by teaching writing techniques with patience and by offering kind words of advice to students who are struggling.
“No one is a perfect writer, not even me,” Lewis said. “But, I hope that students leave my classroom with an awareness of their strengths and weaknesses as a writer and the confidence to move forward as writers into the world, whether that be in future classes or even in a future career.”
Outside of the classroom, Lewis reads and writes frequently. She is a big fan of fantasy and sci-fi and loves animals. As the proud owner of two rescue dogs, Ruki and Nyma, Lewis has a passion for giving animals a home. Lewis also enjoys finding live mic nights to hear the area’s local talent.
Graduating from Auburn University with her doctorate degree., Lewis was president of the Women’s Diversity Initiative Committee, president of the English Graduate Student Association and a graduate assistant for the Society of Early Americanists Conference.
During her time at KSU, Lewis has worked with a team that earned an Affordable Learning Georgia grant and is working toward finding and implementing more affordable textbook options for students.
After so much time spent studying and teaching college, Lewis has valuable insight into the college experience that she offers to her students.
“It is ok to make mistakes, and it is ok to not have everything figured out right now,” Lewis said. “Practically, I understand that college is to earn a degree. However, it is also the place where you find yourself. Keep an open mind. Talk to some new people.
“Learn about the world around you in and out of class,” she continued. “Join an interesting club. Try new things. Have fun. Also, if you have never been a morning person, then reconsider taking that 8 a.m.”
