Introduction
In last year’s inaugural Atrium issue, one of the selection committee’s biggest obstacles was coming up with a name for the collection. College Writing Instructor Gretchen Vanwormer suggested “Atrium,” and explained her reasoning: “In Battelle, the atrium seems to be a space to share conversations and art. In general, I think of an atrium as an open, sunny room where things grow.” Putting together this year’s collection, I am struck by how appropriate the title is: just like the Battelle atrium, these essays provide opportunities for discussions about writing and ideas. And, like “an open, sunny room where things grow,” this year’s essays showcase our student’s growth as writers and scholars.
I am pleased to introduce the second edition of Atrium: Student Writing from American University’s College Writing Program, 2015. The collection continues to celebrate student writing and serve as a model for future students; it demonstrates the variety, depth, and strengths of our College Writing Program students. You’ll see the pieces range from academic discussions to identity explorations to analysis, highlighting both the diversity and insight of our students.
This issue also features a cover by American University student Ben Profaci, winner of the Atrium Cover Design Contest. His cover exemplifies Atrium’s student-centered spirit.
I would like to thank my co-editors Amanda Choutka, John Hyman, Kate Wilson, and Cindy Bair Van Dam. Their work reading, selecting, and editing the submissions make this anthology possible. It is a truly monumental job; their thoughtful discussions and their attention to detail are invaluable. In addition, I’d like to thank faculty for submitting essays; it is truly a pleasure to read them. I’d also like to thank our students for taking risks, engaging with assignments, and inspiring classmates.
Stina Kasik Oakes
Editor-in-Chief