The WKU English Department would like to congratulate Matt Steinhafel, and M.F.A. student from Brookfield, WI, for being accepted to Catholic University of America’s English Ph.D. program! Steinhafel plans to study literature through the lens of postsecularism. He specifically wants to look at the “religious and philosophical underpinnings of postmodernist novels.” Moving forward, Steinhafel plans to continue working in both creative and academic environments. “I will be striving to publish my novel and to complete my collection of short stories while also continuing my work as an instructor and literary scholar,” said Steinhafel.

Both the M.F.A. and M.A. programs with the WKU English Department helped to prepare Steinhafel for this next step. “Earning my M.F.A. in Creative Writing undoubtedly helped to prepare me for this endeavor. Studying creative writing in a formal environment helped me gain a deeper understanding of the craft and aesthetics of the written word,” said Steinhafel. “Additionally, pursuing literature as a secondary concentration provided me with invaluable experience and mentorship in literary scholarship.”

As Steinhafel moves on to Catholic University of America, the WKU English Department would like to wish him the best of luck in his studies!