Stephanie Harper, Doctoral Student

I am a second year doctoral student at the University of South Florida in Tampa. The long 19th century is my primary focus, and my research interests include women and gender studies, narratology, material culture, and the incorporation of folklore or folk tales in the expression of marginalized voices. I currently teach Introduction to Literature. This semester we are focusing on the theme of identity and reading Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in celebration of the 200 year anniversary of its first publication.  I have also taught Rhetoric and Composition, Advanced Writing, and a Sophomore Literature course on Science in Fiction.

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As a graduate student I still inhabit that liminal space between being a professional and completing my own coursework. I love both the solitary aspects of my work and the bright, brief breaks working individually with my students affords. I find teaching and working as a TA helps me keep it all in perspective.  I also have two children (7 & 9) who take up much of my free time. We paint (my BA is in Fine Art), rollerblade on the Bay (where we often spot dolphins and manatees), and swim (as often as possible) to decompress from our crazy schedules! I am grateful to live in Florida, and crossing my fingers for a hurricane free semester!